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Design Dilemma: How to Start An Art Collection

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There are a lot of people who have missed the point about art. So what’s the point?

Aside from the ability to transform minds and hearts, art also has the power to totally transform interiors. Just an “okay” space can become spectacularly fabulous with just a few well-chosen pieces of art. If you’ve ever been to the home of an art collector, you will see and feel the difference. And yet, plenty of people neglect art altogether, or choose mass-produced posters or prints lacking soul. In fact, in the homes that we see, the lack of original art is sadly one of the most common glaring omissions.

Need inspiration? Check out the photos below of art collections in normal people’s homes:

Above a Chicago loft, and below, a New York apartment feel special specifically because of the art.

Below, an Arkansas home is soothing and stimulating at the same time, thanks to neutral colors and tantalizing art.

Below, a Boston apartment, simply furnished, might feel a bit pedestrian except for a dramatic abstract art collection.

If you like the idea of adding art to your digs but you feel intimidated or that quality art is out of your price range, here are some tips for beginning a collection:

• Visit lots and lots of galleries and art studios. Over time, you’ll get a feel for what you like.
• Buy only what you like. After all, you’ll be living with your art for a long time. Don’t buy work that doesn’t speak to you on a personal level.
• Don’t buy only to match the couch. Art that is bought only for decorative purposes feels staged and is unconvincing. Buy pieces because you like the work itself. You will find the right place for it over time.
• Take advantage of artist open studios events. Many artists open their doors and sell directly to the public several times a year. Take advantage of these events to buy original art at prices that are far below gallery prices.
• Shop online. The art world has changed, and more galleries have moved online. In fact, many galleries are purely virtual, offering affordable original art. It’s enough to do a search to find the various venues.
• Visit your local art college. At least once a year, most art colleges offer student art sales and exhibitions where you can begin to develop a collection.
• Put yourself on a schedule. Plan out your art purchases in advance so that you can add to your collection deliberately. If you see something you love, you can often work out a payment plan with the artist or gallery.

Imagesphoto 1,  www.pamreynolds.com; 2, 3, 4, via apartmenttherapy.com; 5 and 6, art courtesy www. pamreynolds.com.