5 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting an Art Collection

Starting an art collection can be one of life’s most rewarding adventures — part treasure hunt, part emotional investment, and part lesson in self-discovery. But like all worthwhile pursuits, it’s not without its pitfalls. Whether you're drawn to landscapes, abstracts, or figurative works, sidestepping a few common traps can save you money, regret, and wall space.

1. Buying for Status, Not for Love

It’s tempting to chase after names that impress rather than works that move you. But collecting art isn’t like buying a handbag with a logo — the satisfaction must come from within. Art is something you’ll live with every day; if it doesn’t speak to you, it’s just wall decor. True collectors follow instinct over ego, and over time, the value of a piece bought with the heart often outpaces the one bought to impress the neighbours.

2. Ignoring the Importance of Provenance and Quality

Every artwork has a story, and that story matters. Provenance (the documented history of an artwork) can affect its authenticity, value, and future resale prospects. The same goes for materials — archival quality, premium canvas, and lightfast pigments all matter. Avoid the “bargain bin” temptation unless you're genuinely into ironic posters of dogs playing poker. If you’re unsure, ask the gallery or dealer; reputable professionals will welcome the questions.

3. Thinking You Need to Understand Everything About Art First

This one’s a doozy. Many new collectors feel they need a degree in art history before making their first purchase. Not true. You don’t need to decode the symbolism of every brushstroke or know the difference between Romanticism and Rococo before trusting your instincts. Art is meant to be felt first, understood later — and half the joy is learning as you go. Think of collecting art like dating: the best relationships often start with chemistry, not a background check.

4. Forgetting About Scale and Space

It happens more often than you'd think: someone falls in love with a 2-metre canvas only to realise their apartment wall is about 1.8 metres wide. Take measurements, understand the scale of your space, and don’t forget to leave your light switches and power points unblocked. A painting needs room to breathe — and so does your furniture.

5. Not Building a Relationship with a Gallery or Artist

Behind every great collection is a great relationship — with a gallery, an advisor, or even the artist themselves. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, request a studio visit, or enquire about the story behind a work. Good galleries value curiosity and are usually thrilled to help nurture new collectors. Plus, staying in touch means you’ll be first to hear about new releases, private viewings, or that perfect piece that just arrived.