The Art of Collecting Art

"Art collecting is a passion pursued with discipline."  

-Arthur Sackler, Art Collector

Most art enthusiasts I know, like my mom, collect art for different reasons, among them, intellectual, aesthetic, and emotional satisfaction. 

As my mom would always say, "collecting art nearly always derives from a passionate interest, rather than a desire to make money (since artworks can be sold over the art market over and over again). At the start, it may not even be thought of as collecting at all. But once you’ve started, it can be very nearly impossible to stop. 

There's a difference between buying art and collecting art.
(Image source: artbusiness.com)

Growing up, my mother has been very influential in exposing my siblings and I to the visual arts, as well as instilling among us the idea that collecting art for love and profit is one of life's great pleasures. Through her, we learned that collecting art is not just acquiring pretty things: it is a yearning to support the arts, to be part of art history, to tell a story and create a unique grouping of works that reflects one's taste, a specific historical period and ideas. Over the years, she has amassed a collection of both classical and contemporary Philippine art from various artists, spanning from Amorsolo to Alegre---some of which I will be featuring in my succeeding blog entries :). 

Outside the Church, Fernando Amorsolo, 1955
(Our private collection. Image copyright: Jessica E. Vitangcol)

Two Young Girls by Juan Luna
(Our private collection. Image copyright: Jessica E. Vitangcol)

For this entry, I sought the advice of my mom on how one could get into the hobby of collecting art and I she gave me all the important tips that an art afficionado would greatly learn from. 

According to my mom, the process of creating your art collection is an art form in its own right. When you're passionate about the arts, you can commit to the long journey of collecting without worrying about what you'll get out of it. 

Here are ten tips to help you get started in collecting fine art:

1. Buy art because you like it and because it moves you, and because it will enhance your life.
2. Visit as many art galleries as you can; gallery staff can be helpful guides in your art education.
3. Get on gallery mailing lists so you'll be invited to openings and special events.
4. Visit and join your local art museums and non profit art centers. Curators sometimes give lectures on collecting art.
5. Attend National and International Art Fairs and Art Expos whenever possible. 
   
   

   

   Art Fair Philippines bills itself as a platform to exhibit some of
   the best works of Philippine Contemporary Art (Image Source: rappler.com)
   
   

6. If you know art collectors, talk to them and find out what they know and what they've learned about collecting art.
7. Read books on art history and books about collecting art.
8. Subscribe to a few art magazines.
9. Read reviews by local and national art critics, keeping in mind that reviews usually just reflect one persons opinion.
10. Working with a professional art advisor / art consultant is a good way to learn about art collecting, and they will guide you through the process of purchasing art.

Once you've educated yourself and have fallen in love with a work of art, BUY IT, TAKE IT HOME, and ENJOY IT! :)

Now, ask yourself: Should I consider becoming a serious collector? 

Of course you should - but only if you want to take the time and effort required to develop a passion, because remember: MORE THAN A HOBBY, COLLECTING ART IS AN ART FORM IN ITSELF. :)