4 Myths About Art Collecting You Need to Forget

So, you’re thinking about starting an art collection? That’s very exciting but it can seem pretty intimidating too. The ‘art-world’ has long been seen as an exclusive space for the select few and art collecting a phrase that only applies to the rich and famous… we’re here to tell you that it’s not true.

Anyone can get into art collecting, whether you want to collect art on a budget or you have a bit more to spend. Your art collection is personal to you, your values, tastes and personality – it doesn’t need to fit into the latest trends or feature works by well-known artists. It’s yours to nurture, grow and enjoy.

If you’re wondering where to begin your own art collection, here’s a few myths about art collecting that you need to forget first…

1) You need a degree to understand art

Works of art are created for many different reasons, and they are collected for many reasons too. An artist might make work for the sheer enjoyment of the process, to express themselves, as an emotional response to a time or place, or perhaps to make a political statement. Whilst some works of art might require you to have some historical understanding, it is certainly not the case for all.

What’s most important when viewing a work of art for the first time is think about how it makes you feel… Did it remind you of somewhere or someone? What is the subject matter and do you like it? Your immediate feelings will often be your truest and will very much determine whether you’ll be taking it home and hanging it on your wall.

If you are interested in an artist or work of art and want to know a little more about it… ask! Whether you are in a gallery or speaking directly to the artist, they will be very willing to answer your questions. Sometimes knowing a bit about the artist or how the work was made can help in making a decision.

2) You need to be rich to buy art

We can’t deny that having a big budget enables collectors to buy expensive artworks by well-known artists. However, that doesn’t mean that only people with a high income can surround themselves with art. There are many options for collecting art on a budget and, whilst original paintings are more expensive, original prints and art prints are a great place to start. (Read our blog on Original Prints vs Art Prints here). They offer a more affordable option for collectors and you are still getting a work of art from an artist you love.

If you are looking for original paintings and drawings, consider looking at recent graduates and emerging artists: they are at the start of their careers and their work tends to be more affordable. Our launch event on Thursday 16th September will see Hannah interview Royal Drawing School graduate, Felix Higham, as part of the Fen Ditton Gallery Voices in Drawing exhibition. Find out more about the event here.

3) You have to have a big collection to be an art collector

An ‘art collector’ does not only apply to collectors with large collections (and large houses to put them in!). You might decide that you want to buy a few pieces for a collection of works for your home – does that make you an art collector? Yes! Especially if you are working to a budget, carefully planning a small collection might be the best way for you to start. All I am saying is, I guarantee you won’t stop at one!

4)    It must be an investment

In an ideal world, we would be able to purchase a work of art and see it increase in value. But realistically, that isn’t always the case, nor should it be your main consideration. For most collectors, especially at the early stages of your collection, you should buy a piece of art for you home because you love it and it makes you happy, or it means something to you.

Whatever your thoughts are about the art-world and collecting, there is a space for everyone to be part of that. That’s one of the main reasons for us to launch this Young Collectors community. If you’d like to find out more about joining our community, upcoming events and talks, register here.