Our team has been talking to art advisors, curators, gallerists, and artists directly for many years and taking notes on best practices for the novice collector. We’ve compiled this simple guide, with essential tips, and some lessons learned along the way. Things are changing so fast, and the traditional ways are quickly disappearing, leaving room for the new, so whether you are looking to buy art for decorative purposes, because you love it, as an investment, or to support the art world, starting a personal collection requires time. It is a subjective experience, and like fashion or home decoration, a way to express your personality and style.

• First you need to understand the art market- focus on research!

  The key is to spend a lot of time learning about the art world. With museums reopening finally, visit as many as possible, attend virtual art fairs and organize art walks by visiting your local art galleries with friends and family. Take note of the mediums, and styles that catch your attention. Keep a list and find them on social media. Ask galleries for information on the artists, look them up online, instagram is an infinite source of information. There are plenty of art platforms, like artsy that do a fantastic job in segmenting art by price, style, and creative categories but before you make a purchase compare prices and learn what different artists and galleries are charging. Don’t forget there are also a ton of “ intermediaries’ claiming to support artists meanwhile they don’t have a clue and price art in the wrong manner, so beware of those and ask around first.

  Our team loves ceramic art, the glass works of Flavie Audi, photography on Artsy and contemporary abstract art that we feature often right here. We regularly check out Tappan Collective, Photo London, and we are always looking for emerging artists in all our travel adventures. Recently we found FFOTO, which is impressive if you love photography and a gallery based in L.A. we adore called House of Spoils. Let us know your favorite online platforms.

• Decide on a budget you want to start out with

  
  The art world has often been seen or felt as intimidating or as a luxury, but we all know today art has never been more accessible and easier to purchase. Establishing a budget will allow you to decide what is available for you to buy and where. Ideally its probably smarter to start small and gradually increase your budget as you grow your collection and understanding of what you like and don’t like. . Based on our research a first time collector could consider anything from $200 to $1000 dollars to begin but if you really like the artwork, consider buying it even if it's $50. There are no guarantees when it comes to investing in art. If a return on art investment is your goal, then look at mid-career, established artists, or ( the fun part) actively try to predict upcoming trends.

• Buying art online is a very efficient and economical option for new art collectors.
  
  Get in touch directly with artists, editors, curators, art experts and galleries that can provide you with more information on the art market or on the specific artworks you like or may be interested in. I’ve noticed many artists that I message on instagram appreciate the communication and keep me personally up to date with their work, and upcoming projects. Good galleries also go the extra mile, not just by sending an average monthly newsletter via mailchimp. Some want to understand your taste and invest time in that and help you learn more about artists they think you might be interested in. Engagement and social connection is key in collecting art successfully for the buyer and seller!
  

• Other things to consider before you make your purchase

  Ok so at this stage you are familiar with the artist and his/her trajectory. You are comfortable with the price, now you need to consider the following; ( these might sound incredibly obvious) but many gallerists and curators tell us that one of the biggest problems collectors face is learning to curate their own collection considering how it will look in their home, or even how future art works will stylistically go with each other. Like fashion, curation is a visual art and can take some time to get right aesthetically. Have fun with it, take risks, but consider the overall picture.
  
  Last but not least, always keep the Certificates of Authenticity. Many people tend to forget its importance for the future and for insurance.

  Written by Leila Antakly * views are my own and do not reflect that of the team.

• Also would like to take the opportunity to be ranked in the word’s top art blogs.