Isn’t there something uniquely special about owning a piece of art that you’ve chosen? That you’ve fallen in love with? Starting an art collection can be an exciting journey - of self expression, discovery of new tastes and appreciation of creative talents.

Here are my top tips for collecting original art you love:

✨ Explore your interests and tastes. What styles, themes, and mediums resonate with you? Are you a lover of all things abstract? Or a fan of figurative work? Maybe you prefer sculpture. Once you’ve figured out what you love, you’ll be in a better position to build a cohesive and meaningful collection.

✨Spend time doing some art research. Head over to Instagram, visit local art fairs, galleries or exhibitions. Expand your knowledge of what’s what and who’s who in the art world. Immerse yourself in the art scene and engage in conversations with artists and other art enthusiasts.

✨Set a budget for your next piece or art. How much are you willing to invest? Remember to include framing, shipping and any other extras. You can always start small and build from there. There are many emerging artists with incredible talent whose work is extremely accessible and available to those with smaller budgets.

✨See art up close and personal! Visit galleries, art fairs, and open studio events to view art in person. It makes a huge difference seeing textures, colours and details in the flesh. Engage with gallery owners and artists to gain insights into their creative process and discover the stories behind the artworks.

✨Connect with artist IRL or online. Connect with artists whose work you admire. Follow them on Instagram and engage with their content. Find your favourite artists and stay updated on new work released - you may see a new piece that just has to be yours! Build a relationship with artists your admire and support them and their work.

✨Start small and grow your collection over time. Don't rush the process! Start with smaller, affordable artwork and gradually expand your collection. Each piece holds its own value, regardless of how much it costs.

✨Buy what you love. When it comes to collecting art, trust your instincts and buy pieces that genuinely move you. Your collection should be a reflection of your personal taste and the emotional connection you have with each artwork. Don't be swayed by trends or potential investment value; focus on acquiring art that brings you joy.

Collecting art is a lifelong journey, so take your time, trust your instincts, and let your love for art guide you every step of the way. Happy collecting!