HOW TO START A MODERN ART COLLECTION: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE
Embarking on the journey of collecting modern art is an exciting and rewarding endeavour. Whether you’re drawn to bold abstract paintings, minimalist sculptures, eye-catching black-and-white photography, or thought-provoking installations, building your art collection allows you to curate pieces that resonate with your tastes and aesthetic. As you begin, it’s important to approach collecting with curiosity, an open mind, and a willingness to learn.
1.Find Out What You Love
First things first—before you buy anything, figure out what kind of art speaks to you. Your collection should be a reflection of your taste and personality. Here are some ideas of how you can find what you like.
Browse the collections at Hess Art House: With colour photography, black and white, and paintings, you are sure to find something that catches your eye. Browse the collection here.
Visit galleries and museums: Spend time wandering through exhibitions. Notice what you like and what leaves you saying, ‘Is that even art? I feel like I could do that...’.
Start a Pinterest page or save pieces you like to your notes app: Keep a record of art that lights something up in your soul, so when it comes to making your first purchase (exciting!), you have an idea of what you like.
Follow art Instagram pages: Hess Art House Instagram is a good place to start 😉
2. Set a Budget (and stick to it)
You don’t need a fortune to start collecting—seriously. But it’s a good idea to set a budget early on to keep things realistic.
Start small: Prints, photographs, and artworks by up-and-coming artists are great entry points that won’t break the bank. At Hess Art House, we support emerging artists in their careers – and it’s a win-win—you get an original artwork, support an emerging artist, and it’s a lot cheaper.
Factor in extra costs: Think about framing, insurance, and possible shipping fees.
Be strategic: Instead of impulse-buying, take your time to invest in pieces you truly connect with.
3. Get to Know the Art Scene
The art world can seem a bit intimidating at first, but it’s also incredibly welcoming once you start engaging with it.
Visit local art fairs and exhibitions: These events are fantastic for discovering fresh talent and chatting with artists directly.
Follow artists and galleries on social media: Many post-behind-the-scenes content, upcoming drops, and exclusive releases.
Join collector groups and forums: Being part of a community can help you learn from more experienced collectors.
4. Buying Your First Piece
Now comes the fun part—actually making your first purchase! But before you hit ‘buy’, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Authenticity matters: Always ask for a certificate of authenticity when buying original artworks.
Limited editions vs. open editions: Limited editions tend to hold more value over time, whereas open editions are usually more affordable. What’s the difference? Limited editions are originals that can only be reproduced once. Open editions can be reproduced many times like a print.
Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the artist or gallery about the piece’s history, materials, and meaning. The more you know, the deeper your connection to the work will be. Our team at Hess Art House are here to help!
5. Display and Care for Your Art
Once you’ve got your first piece, you’ll want to display it properly and keep it in great condition.
Find the perfect spot: Keep artworks away from direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperatures.
Frame it well: Good framing can make a huge difference in how an artwork looks and how well it’s preserved.
Keep records: Maintain a list of what you own, including receipts, certificates, and artist details.
6. Growing Your Collection Over Time
As you continue collecting, your taste might evolve—and that’s totally fine! Some people focus on a particular theme or medium, while others love mixing it up.
Trust your instincts: If a piece moves you, it’s worth considering—even if it’s not what you originally had in mind.
Don’t rush: Take your time building a collection that truly reflects you.
Sell or swap if needed: Sometimes, you outgrow pieces. Selling or trading artwork can make room for new ones that align better with your current taste.
Final Thoughts
Starting a modern art collection isn’t about following rules—it’s about passion, curiosity, and personal expression. Whether you’re drawn to colour photography, black-and-white photography, or painting, the most important thing is to buy what you love.
So, go ahead. Start exploring, start collecting, and most importantly—enjoy the journey! Browse our collection here.
