Art collecting is more than obtaining something valuable. It is about having a collection that others want to see. A good collection tells others about the art that they wouldn’t be able to determine simply by seeing the pieces alone.

1. 5 Essential Tips to
Plan Your First Art
Collection
B Y E T I E N N E K I S S - B O R L A S E

2. Getting Started
Art collecting is more than
obtaining something valuable. It is
about having a collection that
others want to see. A good
collection tells others about the art
that they wouldn’t be able to
determine simply by seeing the
pieces alone.
There are a few keys to planning
your first collection.

3. Establish
your tastes
Determine which pieces
appeal to you. When you
collect simply on what
interests others it’s hard
to make a statement
with your collection.
Spend time at auctions
and with other collectors
before making a
purchase. This will give
you an opportunity to
determine what interests
you.
#1

4. Form a
Cohesive
Collection
Once you know what you
like it’s important to know
why you like it.
When you know why you like
a particular piece it makes it
easier to select similar
pieces. If you select simply
based on the interests of
others you may find that it is
difficult to create your
collection.
#2

5. Create a
Budget
How much are you
planning to spend on
your collection right
now? How many pieces
do you want to start
with?
These are important
questions to consider
and will help you
determine your budget
per piece as well.
#3

6. Document
Everything
You will need to have a filing
system in place to keep track
of all of your purchases
before you start. This paper
trail is the key to establishing
the authenticity of the
pieces you purchase.
Careful documentation
preserves the value of your
collection and is important
not only for your own
interests, but for insurance
purposes as well.
#4

7. Pick Your
First Piece
The first piece in your
collection is the building
block upon which you
will select your other
pieces. It is essentially
the first step in starting
your collection.
This piece should fit with
the theme that you have
determined for your
collection.
#5

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