Art Collecting for Everyday People: Discover the Secrets of Art Collecting Success - Curate Your Art Collection with Style & Confidence

By Carol Walden

Are you fascinated by art but feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin collecting?

In Art Collecting for Everyday People, Carol reveals the secrets of art collecting success, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience.

Do you dream of building your art collection but find the art world intimidating and exclusive? Look no further!

In this invaluable guide, Carol Walden shares insights and practical advice to help you navigate the art world with confidence and style. From understanding different art styles to discovering emerging artists and establishing your taste, this book equips you with the knowledge and tools you need to start and grow your art collection.

With a focus on affordability and personal connection, you'll learn how to find hidden gems, negotiate prices, and create meaningful relationships with artists and galleries. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious beginner, "Art Collecting for Everyday People" empowers you to embrace the joy of art and build a collection that reflects your unique taste and personality. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey into the world of art collecting, where you become the curator of your extraordinary collection.

With an altruistic spirit at its core, "Art Collecting for Everyday People" seeks to enrich lives and communities by encouraging a deeper engagement with art. By providing insights into the diverse and vibrant world of art, it inspires readers to explore their artistic tastes and support emerging artists, thereby contributing to the growth and sustainability of the art ecosystem.

This book serves as a valuable resource for both novice and seasoned collectors, guiding them through the process of selecting, acquiring, and maintaining their art collections. It instils confidence in readers, assuring them that art collecting is not exclusive to a privileged few but rather an enriching pursuit that anyone with an appreciation for creativity and beauty can embrace.

In a world where art can often feel intimidating and inaccessible, "Art Collecting for Everyday People" is a beacon of knowledge, compassion, and inclusivity. It encourages readers to embark on their artistic adventures, discover hidden gems, and create a personal collection that reflects their unique tastes and passions.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Jul 29, 2023
• ISBN: 9781447513377

Book preview

Discover the Secrets of Art Collecting Success

- Curate Your Art Collection with Style & Confidence

By Carol Walden

Copyright

Copyright © 2023 Carol Walden. All rights reserved.

Art Collecting for Everyday People

Discover the Secrets of Art Collecting Success -

Curate Your Art Collection with Style & Confidence

Ebook:    ISBN 978-1-4475-1337-7

Paperback: ISBN 978-1-4467-9663-4

Cover Art: © 2023 Carol Walden.

Caribbean Houseboat Fish

Layout: Carol Walden

No part of this book may be reproduced or used in any manner without the prior written permission of the copyright owner, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

The publisher and author assume no responsibility for errors and omissions, neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of information contained herein.

Author website: WaldenArtsPublishing.com

Artist website: CarolWaldenArts.com

(Go here to purchase prints of the cover art,

Caribbean Houseboat Fish.)

DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to artists everywhere, that you might become collected artists, and benefit from the good fortune and joyful growth that brings.

For new art collectors, you will find that art opens the door to a world of infinite possibilities, where imagination knows no bounds.

If you don’t ‘get it’ now, believe me, with time and a growing art collection, you will.

For my children and grandchildren, as with all my creative pursuits, I do this for you, so that you might have a legacy of ancestry, art, and books to enjoy. You continually exceed all my expectations, delighting me with your brilliance and beauty. Remember, the best of me is also in you. You are the loves of my life.

Other Books by Carol Walden

ARTS

The Creative Art Business Forms & Workbook Downloadable & Printable in US Letter and A4 PDF. The Creative Art Business Forms & Workbook bundle includes my best tried and tested tools from my art and writing career spanning more than 30 years.

Copyright Art Journal      - Downloadable & Printable This state-of-the-art journal is available in US Letter and A4 PDF formats. This Art Journal is a helpful and indispensable addition to any working artist’s practice.

PERSONAL GROWTH

Goal Power Workbook - The Only Way to Thrive in The Business World

Downloadable & Printable in US Letter and A4 PDF.

Goal Setting will activate your SUPER-POWER whatever that may be! This Goal Power Workbook is your guide to do just that and more.

NATURAL LIVING

The Herbal Apothecary Planner – The BEST Way to Organise Your Herbal Medicine Pantry & Preparations.

For Herbal Medicine enthusiasts & students to organise your herbal preparations, herb pantry, herb gardening, and wild foraging.

Digital Downloads from - WaldenArtsPublishing.etsy.com

PRINT Edition – AMAZON in Australia/NZ, United States, United Kingdom, Canada.

DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this book is intended for general informational purposes only. The author has made reasonable efforts to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the content presented. However, the field of art collecting is vast and constantly evolving, and the information contained in this book may not encompass all possible perspectives or reflect the most current developments in the art world.

The content of this book should not be considered professional advice or a substitute for professional guidance. Art collecting involves subjective judgments, personal preferences, and individual circumstances. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research, consult with qualified professionals, and exercise their own discretion when making decisions related to art collecting, investments, authentication, insurance, legal matters, and other areas discussed in this book.

The author and publisher disclaim any liability for any loss, damage, or inconvenience caused as a result of relying on the information presented in this book. The inclusion of references, resources, and websites does not imply endorsement or guarantee the accuracy or reliability of the information contained therein. The reader assumes full responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided in this book.

The stories, anecdotes, and examples shared in this book are for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpreted as guarantees or typical outcomes. The success or outcomes of art collecting endeavours are subject to various factors, including market fluctuations, individual tastes, art market conditions, and other variables beyond the control of the author and publisher. The opinions expressed in this book are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organisations, institutions, or individuals mentioned or referenced herein. By reading this book, you acknowledge and agree to the above disclaimer.

MY VISION & MISSION

I believe that this planet is our Sanctuary, and so it should be. It is our home. And yet big business is destroying it…rapidly. I believe we should be looking after it and the creatures who make their homes here too. I don’t believe humans are more important than every other living thing. But unfortunately for all non-human life, that is how human thinking has evolved.

Then there are the subgroups of humanity. We have created a hierarchy of importance for classes of humans and these days, undiscovered artists don’t figure too highly in that hierarchy. However, as an artist, I have big visions for how the world could be if artists were allowed to occupy more important roles in society.

I believe art has the extraordinary power to illuminate the path towards a more compassionate world. In its myriad forms, art unravels the complexities of human existence, revealing the shared threads that bind us all together. It asks us to look beyond superficial differences and recognize the universal truths that lie within each of us.

Through the strokes of a painter's brush, the melodies of a musician's composition, or the words written by a poet's pen, art stirs the emotions. Art fosters a profound sense of interconnectedness. It opens doors to empathy, dissolving the walls that separate us and nurturing a collective consciousness that is more compassionate.

Art challenges us to question, to reflect, and to re-evaluate our perspectives, offering glimpses into the lives and experiences of others. It teaches us to listen, to understand, and to embrace diversity with open hearts and minds. With each creation, art has the potential to transform not only individuals but entire societies, urging humanity forward on a more harmonious pathway.

So, what do I want to accomplish? I want artists and their creations to be valued because we matter! The beauty we create matters! What we have to say, through our creativity, matters.

In a world that often values things we can touch and measure, it's important to acknowledge the immense value that artists and their creations bring to our lives. Artists, with their unique perspectives, creativity, and dedication emerge as the custodians of the human spirit. They have the uncanny ability to capture the intangible and express the inexpressible, giving voice to the depths of emotions and the nuances of human experience. Through their creations, artists become conduits of cultural expression, mirrors that reflect the joys, sorrows, hopes, and dreams of our collective consciousness.

Artists are not mere entertainers; they’re alchemists, transforming raw materials into objects of beauty, challenging conventions, and igniting conversations that shape the fabric of our society. Their creations evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and inspire change.

Art is the bridge that transcends language, nationality, and background. It fosters empathy, encourages dialogue, and unites people under a shared appreciation for the profound capacity of the human imagination.

Yet, all too often, the work of artists is undervalued, relegated to the sidelines, or dismissed as superfluous or even madness. The sacrifices they make and the immense contributions they make to our cultural, social, and emotional well-being often go unnoticed or underappreciated. It is crucial to understand that artists and their creations matter because they have the power to shape and transform our world.

Many artists challenge the status quo, our beliefs, and they push boundaries. There is a certain type of artist that doesn’t like all the social norms. They like to challenge those norms and when they do, they are making personal sacrifices. They may not realise this at first, but they eventually do.

When artists are valued and their contributions are recognized and celebrated, society flourishes. They deserve our support, respect, and our acknowledgment. They offer us something that is truly invaluable — an alternative lens through which to view the world.

Let’s recognize the profound impact that artists have on our lives. Let’s acknowledge their worth, not only in monetary terms, but in the intrinsic value they bring to humanity and its capacity for imagination, empathy, and connection.

May we never forget that artists matter, for they are the storytellers of our collective journey, the dream weavers of our shared humanity.

My mission is to empower people with the knowledge and guidance they need to appreciate, collect, and support artists and the world of art they create.

Through my book, "Art Collecting for Everyday People", I aim to clarify the art world, providing practical insights and actionable steps to help both seasoned enthusiasts and aspiring collectors understand more about the intricacies of art collecting.

By sharing my ideas, expertise, and passion, I strive to cultivate a community of informed and inspired art collectors, fostering a deeper appreciation for creativity and supporting the growth of artists and their work.

1. ART COLLECTING

In the Beginning…

Art Collectors are custodians of Creativity,

preserving and nurturing the Cultural heritage of our society.

The Journey Begins…

I believe you are here to discover the secrets of art collecting. You want to become a savvy art collector, curating an art collection with style and confidence! Well, it is an exciting topic to immerse yourself in and here you will find knowledge and skills to learn so you can do just that.

The art world, with its galleries, museums, and auction houses, has often been perceived as an exclusive realm reserved for the elite and the wealthy. The image of discerning collectors effortlessly manoeuvring through high-priced masterpieces may seem intimidating to the everyday person, leaving them wondering if art is truly accessible to them. But what if I told you that art collecting is not just for the privileged few, but an enriching journey that anyone can embark upon?

Welcome to Art Collecting for Everyday People, a book that aims to demystify the world of art and empower you to embrace your passion for creativity, culture, and self-expression. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or someone taking their first steps into the art world, this book is your guide to unlocking the hidden treasures that lie within.

In these pages, we will embark on a journey together, a journey that transcends the barriers of budget, expertise, and social status. We will explore how art has the power to enrich our lives, ignite our imagination, and connect us to the pulse of humanity throughout history.

This book is about embracing the joy of collecting, of finding pieces that resonate with your soul and transforming your living space into a personal gallery. We will investigate some practical tips and strategies to help you navigate the art market, whether it's buying from established galleries, discovering emerging talents, or even exploring the world of online platforms that have revolutionized the way we connect with art.

No longer shall art collecting be shrouded in a veil of mystery or reserved for a privileged few. It's time for everyday people like you to discover the thrill of exploring galleries, engaging with artists, and building your own unique art collection. Together, we will celebrate the beauty of diversity, and recognize that art is not only a luxury but an essential part of our cultural heritage.

So, are you ready to embark on this extraordinary journey? Let the adventure begin, and may art awaken the collector within you, transforming your world one brushstroke at a time.

In this book, I will address many steps that you can take to become an art collector. You can either go the whole hog or have a small collection. You can certainly stop collecting at any point. But I do wonder if you are someone who will become passionate about collecting throughout your entire life. Will you attend every art exhibition opening you can find, sipping wine and eating hors d’oeuvres, chatting about art while surrounded by creatives and their outpourings? I sure hope so.

The first step in becoming an art collector is to develop an interest in art. Visit museums, galleries, and art fairs to see a wide range of art styles and mediums. Learn about different artists, art movements, and art history.

Many art collectors are drawn to the world of art simply because they have a deep passion for it. They are inspired by the beauty, creativity, and emotion that art can evoke, and the skills of the artists they favour.

Art can be expensive, so it is important to define your budget. Decide how much you are willing to spend and stick to that budget.

Once you have developed an interest in art and determined your budget, start researching and learning about the art market. Learn about different art mediums, artists, galleries, and auction houses. Keep up with the latest trends and developments in the art world. It is a dynamic industry which undergoes great changes and embraces new movements with enthusiasm and gusto.

Now you just continue learning about art and collecting. The art world is constantly evolving, so it is important to continue learning and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the art market. Attend art events, read art publications, and engage with other art collectors and professionals.

Your new network will consist of art professionals, collectors, and enthusiasts. Attend art events and join art organisations. Build relationships with art dealers, curators, and other art professionals.

Start small and gradually build your collection. Consider buying from emerging artists or lesser-known artists to start with. Attend art exhibition openings, art auctions, visit galleries and art fairs, and graduate exhibitions (degree shows). Then think about building relationships with art dealers.

Buying art in-person offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the artwork's physical presence, engage with the artist's intentions, and experience the emotional and sensory impact firsthand. It creates a profound connection, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the artistic realm.

To buy art at auction you need to go in prepared, otherwise you could make some expensive mistakes. Understanding the auction process, setting a budget, researching the artwork and artist, attending previews, and bidding strategically are key steps to successfully buying art at auction.

Buying art online has become an increasingly popular way to acquire new artworks. The number of artworks bought online is steadily increasing year after year.

Once you find them, follow, and collect your favourite artists online. Most artists inhabit online spaces like their own websites, shared galleries, and social media. Follow their profiles and sign up for their newsletters. Many artists, however, are not overly involved in reaching out to the public, so you probably won't hear from them every week!

Learning about NFTs involves understanding their digital nature, blockchain technology, their potential impact on the art market, and the benefits and considerations for artists and collectors.

Establishing an inventory system for your art collection involves organising and documenting relevant details such as artwork information, provenance, acquisition dates, current location, and other important data to effectively manage and track your collection.

At some point you may want to present your art collection to the public. It’s a wonderful way to share it. This involves curatorial considerations, exhibition design, marketing and promotion, engagement through educational programming, and creating a lasting impact and legacy for your collection. Many people who begin collecting art keep doing so throughout their lives. Their collections are bequeathed, donated, and sold once they pass on.

Art collection care entails maintaining cleanliness, protecting artworks from light, moisture, and pests, controlling temperature and humidity, handling with care, storing properly, insuring the collection, and maintaining proper documentation for the artworks.

Collecting art for financial gain involves conducting thorough research, seeking expert advice, investing in established artists and art movements, diversifying the collection, and being mindful of market trends and fluctuations.

Selling pieces from your art collection can be a great way to earn money and make space for new works of art. You will want to make some profit on sales.

Provenance tells the story of art by documenting the artwork's origin, ownership history, exhibition history, and any notable events or associations, providing valuable context and enhancing its historical and cultural significance.

This is good practice for a collector. Sometimes you may wish to donate to museums or cultural institutions.

For some collectors, art is also a financial investment. Over time, the value of certain works of art may increase, and collectors can enjoy significant returns on their investment when they sell their art for a profit.

Art collectors often feel a sense of responsibility to preserve and protect important works of art for future generations.

Collectors may simply enjoy the way art looks and feels in their home or office. Art can add colour, texture, and personality to a space. Owning valuable works of art can confer a certain level of status and prestige in certain circles.

Art collectors often attend exhibitions, auctions, and other art-related events, which can provide opportunities for socialising and networking.

Collecting art can be a lifelong learning experience. As collectors like you study different artists, styles, and movements, they can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art world. Many works of art have significant historical or cultural importance, and collectors may feel a personal connection to these pieces.

Art collectors can also use their interest in collecting and their collections to support not only artists, but also the arts industries. They often make a positive impact on their communities by donating works to museums or other cultural institutions.

There are many ways to support artists through the ancient tradition of patronage. Becoming a patron of an artist can be as simple as paying for their art materials, providing a studio space, or introducing the artist to your circle of friends, colleagues, and business acquaintances. If you have a business newsletter, add a section devoted to the artist. You can hold a showing of new pieces the artist has completed.

Eventually, even in a short period of time, collecting art can be a source of personal fulfillment and satisfaction, providing a sense of purpose and meaning in one's life.

2. THE ARTISTIC LANDSCAPE

Journey Into the Art World

Engaging with art offers a fulfilling journey into the realm of

transformative power and boundless exploration that art embodies.

Developing an interest in art is an invitation to explore the landscapes of human expression and find inspiration in unexpected places. My hope is that you will find it a fun and rewarding life journey.

Engaging with art allows individuals to express themselves and tap into their own creativity. It offers a platform for exploring and communicating emotions, thoughts, and perspectives that may be difficult to express through other means. This act of self-expression can be liberating and transformative, enabling personal growth and a deeper understanding of oneself.

Art has the power to challenge and expand our perspectives. In the art world, you encounter diverse forms of artistic expression, ranging from different cultures, historical periods, and contemporary movements. This exposure broadens your understanding of the world, promoting empathy, open-mindedness, and a greater appreciation for the diversity of human experiences.

Exploring the art world possesses the power to transform individuals, enabling self-expression, expanding perspectives, evoking emotions, and cultivating connections among a community of kindred spirits. Art can touch our innermost thoughts and feelings, serving as a catalyst for self-reflection and personal growth. It allows us to confront complex emotions, gain new insights, and make sense of our own experiences.

Whether you visit galleries, attend exhibitions, or participate in art-related events, you have the chance to meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for art. This sense of belonging to a community of art enthusiasts can be transformative, fostering collaboration, dialogue, and the exchange of ideas.

Engaging with the art world encourages more critical thinking and interpretation. Artworks often challenge conventional norms and invite viewers to think deeply about their meanings and implications. By analysing and interpreting art, you develop skills in observation, analysis, and evaluation. This enhances your ability to think critically, consider multiple perspectives, and question the status quo in various aspects of life.

Art has the ability to ignite inspiration and fuel imagination. You will expose yourself to a wealth of creative ideas, innovative techniques, and imaginative concepts. This can spark new ideas, encourage innovative thinking, and ignite your own creativity in other areas of life beyond the