How to start collecting art for your enjoyment & profit at low cost?

Answer 1

At low cost, collect for enjoyment. Don't think of it as an investment -- trying to predict which artist will be the next big thing is a ridiculous exercise unless you're an influential gallery owner or musuem curator and you can actually make it happen. Find art that you like and artists that you want to support, people who are doing good work and who will appreciate the money.

If you're near a major city, go to shows at art schools. Many students sell their work cheaply, and it seems like there's at least one work I really like at every show that I go to. If you find someone whose style you really like, but no single painting that you think is what you're looking for, ask if they'll do a work on commission.

Beyond that, find a few friendly galleries that show art that's to your taste. Develop relationships with the staff -- ask them to tell you about particular paintings, how they were made, the background of the artist, etc. A good gallery will call you when they have something that they think you'll like.

Inevitably, most of the art that you buy will never appreciate beyond what you payed for it initially. If you're lucky, it will keep up with inflation, but don't count on it. Just enjoy it. Having original art in your home is a luxury, but you have the satisfaction of owning something unique.

Answer 2

You dont.
a collector has a reason why he or she collects.
for profit? You're not a conisseur but a butcher, you might as well sell or collect stocks.

for enjoyment? when was the last time you made a profit out of your enjoyment?

Yeah Rock Bands but only when the gig was, to have some fun.

If you see something you really like, and you could affort it, go buy it you'll enjoy it truly.
and perhaps you have great taste as well.............maybe then but only then.

Answer 3

I started with identifying particular art expressions I enjoy most. I love watercolors, particularly of seascapes. I found a particular artist I found interesint, Nancy Taylor Stonington, and researched her works over the net. I have been able to acquire excellent numbered prints at reasonable prices that over a few years have actually increased. Even her originals fall into affordable ranges for a novice such as myself. As her popularity grows... so grows the value of her work.

Answer 4

I just read the book art for dummies, a great book written by the curator of the met. read it it gives you most of the artists and periods they painted in. Also gives you a lot of tips on collecting, what to look for and how to talk to dealers.
good luck