10 STEPS TO BUILDING AN ART COLLECTION
- robertyeo20
- Jul 22
- 2 min read

For almost 30 years, the Kingsway-Lambton Charity Art Show & Sale has been helping art lovers build their art collection. Starting with one piece of art, they have now built a sizeable assortment of wonderful art which reflects on their own taste and personality. Building an art collection is a rewarding journey that blends passion, education, and strategy. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started—whether you're collecting for personal enjoyment, investment, or both.
Define Your Purpose
Ask yourself:
Do I want to collect for aesthetic enjoyment, cultural value, or financial investment?
Will my collection focus on emerging artists, a specific medium, era, or theme (e.g. climate, urban life, abstraction)?
Knowing your “why” helps you stay focused as the collection grows.
Educate Yourself
Learn everything you can about the art world:
Visit museums, galleries, art fairs, and open studios
Read art magazines (e.g. Artforum, Frieze)
Follow artists and curators on social media
Attend gallery talks, panel discussions, and virtual tours
The more you see, the more you develop your “eye” and taste.
Set a Budget
Start small; many collectors begin with $500–$2,000 per piece.
Be consistent. You can build a meaningful collection over time.
Don’t overlook prints, drawings, or works on paper—they’re often more affordable and just as collectible.
Buy What You Love
Emotional connection matters. Art should move you.
If you're torn between two pieces, ask yourself:
Which one would I regret not getting?
Start with Emerging Artists
Discover talents in:
Art school shows
Local galleries and artist co-ops
Online platforms like Artsy and Instagram
Early works are often more affordable and may appreciate over time.
Do Your Due Diligence
Before buying, ask:
Is the work authentic? (request a certificate of authenticity)
Meet the artist
What's the artist’s background? (exhibitions, press, collections)
What’s the condition of the work?
What’s the provenance?
Document Everything
Keep receipts, artist bios, exhibition history, and condition reports.
Photograph each piece.
Consider cataloguing software or apps to manage your collection.
Preserve and Insure
Use proper framing and avoid direct sunlight or humidity.
Once your collection gains value, get an appraisal and insurance.
You may want to work with a conservator for fragile or older works.
Build Relationships
Get to know:
Gallery owners
Artists
Other collectors
These connections help you access private previews, studio visits, and off-market opportunities.
Be Patient & Evolve
Your taste will grow and shift over time—embrace that evolution.
As your collection grows, consider how pieces relate to each other or contribute to a larger narrative.
Let the Kingsway-Lambton Charity Art Show & Sale be your gateway to meeting some wonderful professional artists. Art lovers have come to trust this annual event to open their eyes to the local arts scene.
Building an art collection can and should be fun. Start the journey with an open mind and be ready to embrace the wide world of art!