The Art of Collecting: Where to Begin and Whether You Need an Art Consultant

Starting an art collection is as thrilling as it is deeply personal. Art has the power to transform spaces, evoke emotion, and tell stories—both about the artists who create it and the collectors who bring it into their homes. Yet, for many, the journey into collecting contemporary art can feel daunting. Where do you start? What should you consider before making your first purchase? And do you need an art consultant to help guide you through the process?

While some collectors prefer an intuitive, self-led approach, others opt for expert advice from professionals who understand both the art market and the nuances of personal taste. The good news? There’s no single “right” way to collect art—only the way that feels right for you.

Defining Your Why

Before you start acquiring pieces, it’s important to ask yourself a few key questions. What draws you to art? Is it the thrill of discovering emerging artists? A desire to curate a collection that tells a personal story? Or are you viewing art as an investment, hoping to build a portfolio that grows in value over time?

For many, collecting begins with an emotional connection. A piece stops you in your tracks, speaks to you in an unexplainable way, and suddenly, you can’t imagine your space without it. Others approach collecting with a more strategic mindset, researching artists and galleries, studying provenance, and considering long-term appreciation. Neither approach is wrong, but being clear on your motivations will help shape your collection in a meaningful way.

Art is the only way to run away without leaving home." — Twyla Tharp

Where To Begin

One of the most rewarding aspects of collecting is discovery. The world of contemporary art is vast, with countless avenues to explore—galleries, art fairs, auctions, studio visits, and even social media.

Emerging artists often showcase their work in small, independent galleries or through online platforms, offering an accessible entry point for new collectors.

Art fairs such as Art Basel, Frieze, or The Armory Show provide the opportunity to see a wide range of works in one place, while auctions—whether through major houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s or smaller online platforms—can introduce you to both established and up-and-coming artists.

Visiting galleries and speaking directly with curators can also be an invaluable way to gain insights into an artist’s practice and body of work. For those looking to start small, limited edition prints or works on paper can be a great entry point. They offer the opportunity to own a piece by an artist you love at a more accessible price point while still maintaining artistic integrity.

The Role of an Art Consultant

Art consultants offer a bridge between the collector and the art world, guiding acquisitions with a trained eye, deep industry knowledge, and access to works that might not be readily available. Their expertise can be particularly beneficial for collectors looking to build a cohesive, long-term collection rather than making one-off purchases.

“A great art consultant doesn’t just find you art—they help you discover what resonates with you,” says Alexandra Schafer

Consultants assist with everything from sourcing and acquiring works to negotiating prices, handling logistics, and even curating how the art is displayed within a space.

For those who feel overwhelmed by the sheer breadth of choices, a consultant can provide clarity, ensuring each piece aligns with the collector’s vision while also offering insight into an artist’s career trajectory and market value.

However, an art consultant isn’t a necessity for everyone. Many collectors enjoy the process of discovery on their own, trusting their instincts and developing their eye through experience. Others find that a hybrid approach—seeking occasional guidance but making independent acquisitions—is the best fit.

Building a Collection with Purpose

Regardless of whether you work with a consultant or go solo, the most compelling collections are built with thoughtfulness and authenticity.

1. Buy What You Love
Trends come and go, but art that speaks to you will always hold value—both emotionally and aesthetically. Collecting should be a reflection of your taste, interests, and experiences.

2. Educate Yourself
The more you know about an artist and their practice, the more meaningful each acquisition will be. Follow galleries, attend artist talks, read exhibition catalogues, and engage with the art community.

3. Consider the Space
Where will the piece live? How does it interact with other works in your collection? The placement of art is just as important as the acquisition itself. Sometimes, a single piece can redefine an entire room.

4. Think About Longevity
While immediate visual impact is important, consider how a piece will age within your collection. Will it still resonate with you in five, ten, or twenty years?

5. Ask for Documentation
Always request a certificate of authenticity when purchasing a work. Provenance—where the piece has been and who has owned it—is crucial for maintaining the integrity and value of your collection.

The Journey Ahead.

Starting an art collection isn’t just about acquiring beautiful objects; it’s about curating a narrative that is uniquely your own. Whether you take a hands-on approach or enlist the help of a consultant, the most important thing is to enjoy the process. After all, art isn’t just something to look at—it’s something to live with.

A personal note, towards the end: “Art collecting is a deeply personal expression for me—it reflects who I am, what I stand for, and what I want to support. I myself collect emerging artists with whom I worked with on various hospitality projects as it´s a reminder of how many artists I was able to support through the years, reminding me on the wonderful collaboration we had, the challenges and creative outcomes. So for me, when I look back I see a collection, that holds my values, supported artists I admire and artworks that spoke from the first moment to me, when I saw them in the artist studio or fair.

All my best,

Alexandra

Connect.

E-Mail: alexandra@velvenoir.com

Phone: +43/676 55 11 252

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