GET EDUCATED.Learning about the art world is a great way to gain confidence.
Surf the web, subscribe to online news sources and read books or
magazines about art. Picking up publications like
Canadian Art will help
you discover what’s happening in the Canadian art scene, and taking in
Art Toronto’s
talks and tours
will provide a more personal experience. Many galleries also have
Facebook and Twitter accounts, which is a great way to follow what their
artists are doing and when openings are taking place. Gallery staff are
also great resources and good art dealers will always be willing to
provide you with information and talk to you about their artists. The
more questions you ask, the more you will understand what you like and
why. This confidence will help you to build your collection over.
SEE MORE ART.Get out and see more art at museum exhibitions, gallery opening or art fairs. There are over
110 galleries,
representing thousands of artists at Art Toronto, and hundreds of works
of art on display. Projects like the
RBC Canadian Painting Competition
are great ways to discover artists who are just starting out and offer a
sample of ideas young artists are exploring. Browse and explore sites like
Artsy to see works from around the world. As you gain more
information and look at more art, you’ll become aware of your
preferences and start to understand which mediums or styles appeal to
you.
BUY WHAT YOU LOVE.It may take a little while, but you’ll know what you love when you
see it. The only mistake you can make in buying art is not to buy what
you love. Remember, you have to live with the works and the pleasure of
having them in your home is the dividend. Buying art is a very personal
and emotional experience, so start by collecting what you love. Allow
your emotions to guide you.
SET A BUDGET.No matter how much (or how little) you spend, you can find artwork
to fit your budget. Young, emerging artists will appreciate your support
and are a great way to build a collection. Works on paper, such as
photography or limited edition prints are often more affordable than
other mediums. The
Art Toronto MOCCA Benefit Edition
for example is a great way to purchase work by an established Canadian
artist at a more accessible price and support an important Canadian
museum. The NEXT section of Art Toronto is the perfect place to discover
up-and-coming talent, as well as invest in the careers of the next
generation of artists. It may be easier for you to start small and then
increase your budget as your interest and understanding grow. If you
fall in love with something that you can’t afford to pay in full
upfront, most galleries will set-up a payment plan over several months.
SHOW IT OFF.Your collection is a reflection of who you are, your tastes and
your interests. Don’t be afraid to mix styles, eras and regions, over
time you’ll begin to see common threads or themes in the work. Make sure
you show it off and be proud that you have invested in an artists’
career. Art is made to be seen and not to end up in the garage.
Protecting your investment with a good insurance plan from someone like
AXA ART and proper framing will ensure you can enjoy your artwork for
many years.
Images
Tomas Libertiny,
Vessel #2, beeswax, glass, alumnium
86 x 86 x 86 cm (cabinet)
50 x 35 x 35 cm (vessel), 2011. Courtesy of Beers.Lambert, London UK.
Akihiro Higuchi,
Collection 0813, 40 x 30 cm, painting on moth specimen, 2013. Courtesy of MA2 Gallery, Tokyo Japan.
Philippe Pasqua,
Stella, 330 x 240 cm, oil on canvas, 2012. Courtesy of Zemack Contemporary Art Gallery, Tel Aviv Israel.