How to become a collector ?

The history of collectors is as important as the history of art. It helps to understand what motivates collectors. What does it take to become a collector?

Making a choice to become a collector

To become a famous collector like Adrian Cheng, it is important to first make a choice. You have to form a common bond with all the pieces you want to collect. You also need to choose the particular period or movement (for example, modern art, Renaissance, Pop Art). 

Start by asking yourself if you want to focus on a particular theme (e.g. landscape, portrait) or a particular technique (e.g. painting, sculpture, collage). Do you want to buy a cheap piece of art or a specific technique? Do you want to buy cheap art or masterpieces? What are the common denominators and long-term goals of your collection? These are all questions that need to be answered to become a collector. 

Doing research

Once you have decided where you want to go, it is time to do more research. Explore trends in the art market. You need to know which artists are hot and which sectors of the art market are thriving. Of course, you should also pay attention to prices. This requires regular visits to galleries and exhibitions. Internet is also a valuable tool, as it allows you to follow your favourite artists and browse current artworks for sale on auction platforms.

Commitment to quality with a personal touch

When it comes to art, quality is paramount. Look for pieces that stand out from the crowd. Even a coherent collection needs one or two standout pieces to make it particularly attractive. If the focus is on emerging artists, try to acquire works by the most promising talents. The best art in your collection will always stand out from the rest. The best art collections form a whole that is worth more than the sum of its parts.