The Art of Collecting Contemporary Art

Sharone Perlstein talks about the difference between buying art and creating a great collection. Here’s how to start collecting art.

Buying Art vs. Collecting Art – Different Brush Strokes…

There are people who collect art, and people who buy art. These are two very different types of people with very different approaches to the appreciation of art.

Buying Art – Because I like It!

People who buy art tend to do so, if not on a whim, then guided by what they like now, what is in fashion, and what they have the means to purchase. It can be something as simple as a passing fancy, or a serious purchase of a piece of art simply because it moves you and you wish to own it. Collecting art is quite another thing altogether.

Collecting Art – It’s a Lifelong Love Story

An art collector may often buy artworks only when they fit into a specific genre or theme of their collection. It is a painstaking waiting game and one that involves education, appreciation, patience and quite a bit of frustration at times. Many great collectors start with one or two pieces from a specific artist, period, or style, and take it from there. The germ of an idea or a fascination with a specific art movement are often the catalyst for a collection. It is at this point that the great game begins!

Some art collections do not follow a specific theme, but have become world-famous for the grouping of their art and the eclecticism of the pieces. It is fair to say though, that many of the world’s greatest collections are noted because they follow a common theme may it be an artist, a movement, a period or a style. Putting together a collection or an art show is more than just a curation of works, it is very often a labour of love. It relies on years of study and some excellent foresight in spotting trends, ahead of the curve.

Sharone Perlstein - art

Some art collections do not follow a specific theme, but have become world-famous for the grouping of their art and the eclecticism of the pieces. It is fair to say though, that many of the world’s greatest collections are noted because they follow a common theme may it be an artist, a movement, a period or a style. Putting together a collection or an art show is more than just a curation of works, it is very often a labour of love. It relies on years of study and some excellent foresight in spotting trends, ahead of the curve.

The (Art) World is Changing

The art world used to be run by dealers and galleries, but no more. The Internet has changed the way we view art, what we view as art and the way we buy art. It is a tool for collectors who want to educate themselves on different styles and artists, and a great way to discover new art, new passions and new collection ideas. The accessibility of online data has also made it easier to appraise art and evaluate its quality.

Where to start?

Some art collections do not follow a specific theme, but have become world-famous for the grouping of their art and the eclecticism of the pieces. It is fair to say though, that many of the world’s greatest collections are noted because they follow a common theme may it be an artist, a movement, a period or a style. Putting together a collection or an art show is more than just a curation of works, it is very often a labour of love. It relies on years of study and some excellent foresight in spotting trends, ahead of the curve.

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