Collecting… Passion for it, perhaps, bypasses the least part of people. Since childhood we are fond of collecting wrappers, stamps, coins, calendars, and as we get older the passion grows into a professional and very exciting hobby, sometimes bringing considerable profit. So how to build a worthy collection? We have prepared 9 golden rules for beginners!
1. Collect what you like
The first rule, no matter how obvious it may seem, is to buy what you like. It is not recommended to immediately buy works of art in order to resell them. It is very difficult to make predictions about price patterns in this area, both in the long and short term. All the more so, treating art objects as investments will not allow you to see their true rarity and beauty. Don’t think of your paintings and objects of art as money; define a criterion according to which you will be able to determine whether or not a particular object resonates with your emotions and feelings. What will you get when you buy it? What emotions will you experience, will it bring you joy? You may also read here.
2. Look around you
You have to see a lot of things to be able to identify exactly what you want to collect. Visit museums, art school exhibitions and shows, browse online auctions, and participate in independent art gallery programs. Develop the ability to look for and find art in different areas.
3. Do your research
Do your research on what you want to collect and only then go shopping. When researching an item, don’t hesitate to contact experts, whether they are antique dealers, museum or gallery staff, auction house specialists…
4. Give the collection a focus
You can focus on a specific period, theme, type or style of item. This will sharpen your focus and help you focus on a particular collecting theme. A strategy is what guarantees success when it comes to finding rare items. Buying items everywhere is a very common mistake among beginning collectors. It’s a good idea to start by focusing on two to three outlets with a wide enough assortment of merchandise. Plus, it is better to buy one item of the greatest value than to buy many items whose uniqueness may raise questions.
5. Have fun
Collecting is one of the greatest pleasures in our lives. Finding a rare specimen, and searching for it, is what the idea of collecting is all about.
6. Be natural
It’s not worth pushing away the wonderful world of art if you’re not confident in your erudition. Don’t be shy to speak in simple words to sales clerks and don’t try to use professional jargon – just be brave and open-minded. Do not “reinvent the wheel” by going to an antique shop, just ask the subject that interests you. Do not give in to fashions, because the very essence of a collection is to keep it for several years or even dozens of years, and fashions, as we know, are very changeable. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but remember that they will be much easier to live with if they don’t cost you a fortune.
7. Don’t discount the Internet
You can find a lot of useful information online, visit various websites, and find the information you need about a particular period. In addition, when you choose a suitable item in an online store, you can request additional information about it, delivery, packaging, presentation and much – much more.
8. Connection with artists and craftsmen
Evolution is a sign of true creativity and craftsmanship. The artists and craftsmen of today are not untouchable. Famous artists and masters often hold meetings with collectors. Communicating directly with the creator of a painting or any other object you can get interesting details and learn a lot of nuances. Observing an artist’s evolution, you can discover the stages and ways of their development, which will greatly help you when buying art in the future. Read here for more.
9. Presentation of an object is a key stage
Proper “presentation” of even the most insignificant object is a guarantee of success. Correct frame, box, lighting, paraphernalia – all these will help to present an object in a more profitable professional light as well as the opposite: incorrect presentation of an object may well decrease its price.