LITTLE ROCK — Thinking about starting your own collection? The collectors and experts to whom we talked had these simple suggestions.
Buy what you love. Choose a work of art you’re passionate about and can live with for the rest of your life.
Buy the best quality you can afford in your price range and get the right price. Research what similar works sell for at auction or at past shows.
Buy original art. It is more rare than mass-produced prints and giclees.
Educate yourself. Go to gallery openings, artists’ studio tours and art fairs. Read art books, research online and join active art collecting groups.
Establish a budget. Just as for clothing or a vacation, start each year by setting aside funds for the acquisition of art.
Document your collection. Write down everything about the purchase and the artist’s intent.
Don’t rush. Enjoy having some empty walls.
HomeStyle, Pages 38 on 01/12/2013