Adding to the visual abundance we will see in the week ahead during Art Basel seems redundant. What follows is my contribution to art collecting with sensitivity.
This week is Art Basel, the premier international art fair and if you ask me, the only must-see fair. So many other satellite fairs, events and exhibitions make this week the busiest in the art calendar. The pointers below are my advice towards anyone interested in art or thinking of starting an art collection.
- Art is a time-intensive passion. Be prepared to invest more time than money.
- Artworks, first and foremost, stand for their cultural, aesthetic and intellectual value.
- Undercutting a gallerist is not on. Gallerists and dealers invest time and money in supporting artists by representing them at fairs, supporting their shows and hand-holding them during the production of work. Most of their profit is reinvested back into the business. If you want to have direct access to an artist, ask the dealer for a studio visit kindly. This will build your reputation as a trustworthy collector.
- Art flipping in not on. It damages artists’ reputation and disrupts the stability of their primary market. Personal taste evolves, family situations happen and investment is a factor. De-accessioning works is fine if done right.
- Knowledge is everything. The more you see, the more refined and personal your taste and choices will be.
- Challenge yourself. Your collection will become visually richer and better contextualized.
- Online or not online? Always see the artwork first hand. This is the only way to ascertain its quality and condition. At least, if you have not seen that specific work, be familiar with the artist’s practice before you purchase online.
- Art Advisors are not here to tell you who is hot right now and who you should buy. You want a collection that is relevant and unique, right? Art Advisors are here to save you time and give you guidance by presenting you with the best options according to your needs, make gallery introductions, advice on trustworthy dealers, give you insights into the market of an artist, how to take care of the work you may purchase, act on your behalf, assist you with your purchases’ maintenance, etc.
- Follow your instinct. Art collecting is a wonderful personal journey.
