Artist Cleo Barbour shares her top tips for collecting art.
Visit Art Fairs & Artists Studio
Discover good art in real life – it’s worth travelling to find it. At some fairs, galleries exhibit groups of artists, whereas others offer the artists their own stands, providing a fantastic opportunity to meet them and learn their processes. Sign up to the newsletters of galleries to get free art fair tickets and invitations to openings. Plan a weekend in London and visit a few fairs and galleries at the same time. If you have identified an artist you love, it’s so worth arranging to visit them in their studio where there’s bound to be some hidden gems.
My UK fair suggestions would be @theotherartfair, @mcrartfair, @affordableartfairuk & @freshartfair
It must spark JOY!
Always buy what excites you, not what you think you should buy because it’s trendy or ‘collectible’. It’s not beneficial to be sensible when buying art. If it doesn’t light a little spark inside you then don’t buy it. If a fire rages in your chest then don’t hesitate – buy it THERE AND THEN!
Find a Local Framer
One thing that discourages new collectors from buying art is the logistics of getting it framed. Pop in to your local framer before you start purchasing to see what kind of mouldings they offer. Ask for their advice, but be confident in saying no to their suggestions if you think you have a better idea. You’re the one who has to live with it.
Discover artists through Instagram
Follow art advisors, charity collectives and online art curations. There are art experts out there who constantly share the work of up and coming artists. Follow them for fresh ideas! There are also some great charity collectives selling really good art. You can begin by checking these guys out @VisualArtistsAssociation @artforcharitycollective @artonapostcard @theauctioncollective Partnership Editions Cramer & Bell
Stay away from trends
The last thing you want is your house ending up a clone of your Instagram feed! Mostly likely it will look outdated within a year. Whilst Instagram & Pinterest are helpful for generating ideas, their algorithms also churn out a lot of the *same old sh1t*. Make it your mission to look for art in real life and you’ll naturally discover the artists YOU love.
Be BOLD
As much as I love a gallery wall, filled with interesting small works, I believe that nothing finishes a space better than a large scale picture. A bold piece will bring colour, atmosphere and character to a room. It’s memorable and captivating for guests and can be a great talking point. Save up and hold out for the perfect one.
