Art Collecting DO'S and DON'TS - Part 4

Some may not believe it but art collecting is for everyone. There is art out there that will match the voice of your heart and also the voice of your pocket. The search, discovery, and procuring of this art is a journey worth taking. It can be fun, exciting, and attainable. With a bit of careful planning and the insights we've shared in this series, you can make it a reality. 

Each segment of our Art Collecting DO'S and DON'TS series has covered 3 Do's and 2 Don'ts. In Art Collecting DO'S and DON'TS - Part 1 we discussed staying true to you, building relationships, and avoiding the 'everyone-else is-buying-it' syndrome. Art Collecting DO'S and DON'TS - Part 2 focused on commitment, 'on approval' buying, and staying limitless. Art Collecting DO'S and DON'TS - Part 3 covered cover commissions, payment options, and the scare of an ugly frame. Art Collecting DO'S and DON'TS - Part 4 will conclude this series with delivery, installation, and ongoing care. This four-part series can be referred to again and again as you start, return to, or continue pursuing your art-collecting dreams.

DO ASK ABOUT CARE AND INSTALLATION 

Different art requires different care. Talk to your art advisor for tips to ensure each piece is well looked after. One example is bronze maintenance. If your new sculpture is outdoors it will need additional attention indoor sculpture does not. Framed artwork should also receive some extra love and attention. A reliable gallery and advisor will be happy to provide this information.

Depending on how handy you are with a hammer, you may wish for some assistance in hanging your artwork safely ... safely for you and your art. Most galleries have an installation team or can refer one. Discuss fees, expectations, and timing openly. Your art advisor can also provide invaluable insight into where and how to hang or group your collection. Talk to them about lighting and about recommenced placement height. If you're comfortable sharing photographs of your home or having them visit, you'll quickly discover how much they can assist with this part of the process.

DO TRUST YOUR HEART

As you build trust in a gallery or your art advisor, they'll likely introduce you to new artists or artwork. Be open to what they suggest ... but trust your heart. Being attracted to certain works of art is deeply personal and you don't need to be a seasoned art critic to know what's right for you and your home, or office. If a piece just doesn't feel right, listen to that feeling and express it. This will aid a gallery or advisor in helping you see art that DOES feel right. 

DO HAVE A PLAN

You may have a loose idea of the direction you want your art collection to go. However, having a clear long-term goal of how you want it to develop will let you stay focused and avoid distraction. Think about how you want your collection to look and feel. Consider styles, mediums, subject matter, and the kinds of art and artists you wish to include. Revisit that plan from time to time. Knowing your plan and keeping a clear view of your goal will help you to adapt as acquisition opportunities arise.

DON'T EXPECT OVERNIGHT DELIVERY

The excitement of acquiring a new piece, and the anticipation of having it installed can make waiting for its arrival a little difficult. Remember that shipping art often takes longer than expected. Although a reputable gallery will do its best to expedite shipping for you, patience is needed. If proper care isn't given to wrapping, packaging, and crating, or if a shipper doesn't specialize in art transportation, the result could be a damaged piece. Have an open conversation with your trusted gallery and art advisor about fees and timing, ensuring you can enjoy your beautiful, undamaged artwork within a reasonable timeframe.

DON'T DEMAND AN UNREASONABLE DISCOUNT OR CUT OUT THE GALLERY 

Wanting to get a great price for a great piece is perfectly understandable ... within reason. Discounts are often reserved for collectors or those acquiring multiple pieces at once. That doesn't mean you shouldn't ask. But do so respectfully. Aggressive demands for a discount can damage your relationship with a reputable gallery. Remember that part of your art-collecting journey is about building relationships ... trusted connections with your gallery, art advisor, and the artists they represent. Avoid trying to cut a gallery out of the relationship and contact an artist directly. This places the artist in a very awkward position and can put their professional relationship with the gallery at risk. It can also negatively impact your buying reputation and your ability to acquire pieces in the future.

We couldn't be more excited for you ... whether you're just starting as an art collector, have a growing collection, or are seen as having an established collection. Art collecting is a beautiful life-long, generational pursuit. We wish you every success and look forward to being part of your journey!