Starting an Art Collection...

I was asked to post some thoughts on
“Starting an Art Collection”.
These are only my musings on the topic! If you're
looking for advice on collecting from a business
perspective, you should check out Invaluable's blog In Good Taste which features the latest trends
in art and antiques and the people asking me to
post my opinion.

First ask yourself why you are collecting.  If you
think you are investing in art with the intention
of making a profit I suggest doing some real
legwork, study up on what’s trending, do your
research and you may need to hit some
cosmopolitan cities and find yourself a gallery
you can work with.  This is out of my realm of
information and I wish you luck!

Since I chose to make a living painting and doing
it my way, without the support of galleries my
view point is a little lower key.   I am speaking to
the average (and above average!) person who
likes art, and I also understand you may be
looking for the perfect piece to go above your
sofa and that does not offend me!  
But find a piece you love.  

I believe you should purchase art you love and
surround yourself with what speaks to you and
touches your soul.   Your purchases reflect who
you are so take your time and look around. 
Plenty of great art and personable artists can
be found at local art shows and at your local art
association.  There are also smaller, well informed
galleries in every town who often feature local
work.   From the emerging young artists to us
older established artists.  You can find a broad
price range to suit your  budget.  I believe if you
can possibly afford it, purchase an original piece
of work.  I offer layaway if the timing is not right,
rather a layaway than miss out on a painting you
love.  If original paintings are simply out of your
budget, check into the artists prints. 

You should still do a little research and ask a few
questions.  What style do you like?  Are you drawn
to certain subjects?   Do you prefer a medium?  
When you find art you like you should still ask a
few questions…   Do you see a style, is there a
continuity in all their paintings.   I want people
to see a painting of mine and say…
Oh, that’s an Andy Smith.
How long have they been painting?  I can
seriously say there is a huge difference in my
work 30 years ago compared to today.   My own
understanding of the medium gained from daily
painting.  Do they have a love for what they are
doing?  I hope you can tell that when you meet
me!   Is the artist making an effort to earn a
living, working at building a name?   Google
the artist and see what comes up.  Your purchase
will not stand a chance of someday increasing in
value if someone is not working at it.   How
many paintings are they printing?  How large is
the editions?  What type and quality prints are
they making?   Who is printing the prints?  Are
they printing the full edition?   Is the artist
or gallery forthcoming with this information?
Is the artist willing to talk to you?  You may
ask me most anything and if I don’t know
my wife will!  
In conclusion… my advice: buy what you
can afford and surround yourself with art
you love!   And if I am lucky... you love my
work!