“Art collecting is a very exclusive and expensive hobby.” If this misconception has caused you to shy away from building your very own art collection, you aren’t alone. Many of us have been there. But thanks to ArtMatch Online Gallery, discovering, collecting, and enjoying original art is possible for regular folks like us.
So, ArtMatch is an online art gallery. No, it’s not your regular, run-of-the-mill kind. And no, it isn’t part of the pandemic-era switch to online eCommerce. ArtMatch has been around since 2016 with the purpose to connect communities to local art and artists both in Toronto and Calgary.
The gallery sits in that sweet spot between zero-curated local art fairs and high-end gallery curations. It features curated collections by local Canadian artists that are as approachable as they are desirable. They also provide consultation services, in case you need help discovering your art jam.
And just because you’re viewing the artwork online doesn’t mean you won’t still get to experience the art and the artist in person. While the online gallery is a place to spot what you like, they do connect you with the artist for a more personalized experience, and an opportunity to try the art in your space before making a full commitment.
For anyone hoping to start building a collection someday (or right away), founder Vandy Midha, an interior designer and artist, has a few insider tips. As you’ll soon find, these Dos and Don’ts are equal parts surprising and encouraging. Take a look—
Permit yourself to become an art collector…
You don’t need too much money and too much knowledge to start. You just need too much intrigue and interest.
Look at a lot of art…
This is the only way you can develop and trust your taste.
Don’t get bogged down by opinions…
It is good to learn from authorities. But you have to live with the art. So at the end of the day, your gut feeling counts the most.
Prioritize original work…
This is the best way to truly connect with your collection. Knowing that a piece of the artist is living with you is what makes your collection meaningful and invaluable.
Don’t get fooled by the investment hype…
While original art can be a sound financial investment, it isn’t the best reason to get into art; a genuine interest is. We prefer to think of it as an investment in yourself and your critical arts community.
Mix objects into your collection…
The best approach to collecting art is building a diverse collection. Instead of focusing on wall art alone, consider beautiful vases, hand-blown glass art and sculptures.
Embrace the power of smalls…
Some great things do come in small packages. And original art is no different. Smalls allow you to explore your riskier tastes with less of a commitment. They are also more affordable and don’t overcrowd the space.
Don’t forget your local artists…
When you support the local art community, you stimulate local creativity and influence new work becoming an integral part of that community. Plus, they are usually more affordable.
Trial the work in your space…
Even the best of artworks can end up looking bad if placed incorrectly. Don’t do a disservice to the art – ask for an in-home trial or use ArtMatch’s digital mock-up service before committing to your original piece.
Don’t take yourself too seriously…
Building an art collection should be a joyful journey for you. You will discover your taste and niche eventually.
If you’re feeling just as motivated to bag your first collectible as we are, we suggest you take a look through ArtMatch’s Canadian art collection. And if you need any help navigating, reach out to them.
