So you want to collect art – but where to start? Starting a fine art collection can seem intimidating, like wading into an icy ocean with only the glow of far-off art to keep you warm. It doesn't have to. Studies have shown that curating an art collection hosts a mint of benefits spanning your home, mind and soul. There’s a thrill and pleasure to hunting down art that isn’t out of reach, no matter your budget or expertise. So to help ease you in, we’ve compiled five insider tips for starting an art collection.

Philippe Le Miere 'classic wizard of oz magic ruby shoes'

1) Ask yourself: Why do you want to start an art collection?  

People buy art for many reasons, some of which suit the burgeoning collector more than others. Buying art as investment for example, can be challenging. Values are constantly in flux, making it difficult to predict the market. Collecting to stay on trend is similarly precarious, who knows what’ll be the next ‘big thing’? That leaves collecting art for the love of art, which frankly, is the most fun. So we suggest building a collection that aims to reflect, inspire and challenge.  

2) Research, research, research

Allow yourself the luxury of discovering art you love. Take time to visit galleries, museums and surf the web. You can peruse our entire collection and keep up to date with new collections and artists via our newsletter or Instagram.  

Judy Cassab 'The Bridge Louis Philippe'

3) Set a Budget

With the art market as vast as it is, finding art to suit your budget is surprisingly within reach. Sometimes however, our taste exceeds our immediate budget. If you fall for a work beyond your means, don’t fret too much – there are options. Original graphics can be an affordable and collectable alternative to paintings, and there are also services like lay-by and Art Money. When it comes to art, setting a budget is wise, but sometimes, so is not settling.

4) Be a clever collector

Since the art world may be new territory, staying savvy is key. Ensure your vendor is trusted by reading reviews and checking their accreditations. Our Director for example, Angela Tandori, is an Executive Member of the Art Consulting Association of Australia, where she served as President for four years. 

We provide Letters of Provenance with all original works of art, serving again to affirm a work's authenticity. Another tip is to always ask questions – after all, any good art dealer ought to be happy to help!  

5) Let it hang

So you’ve just unpacked your first work of art? Congratulations! All that’s left is to hang or prop it up in the home then kick back and enjoy the view, you’re officially an art collector!

Charles Blackman 'Dream Image'