How to Start an Art Collection: Advice from Artist Sébastien Montel

Introduction

Starting an art collection can feel daunting, especially for first-time collectors. With galleries, auctions, and thousands of artworks online, where do you even begin? As a professional artist and passionate advocate for accessible art, I, Sébastien Montel, believe the process should be exciting, intuitive, and personal. In this guide, I’ll share expert insights, beginner-friendly strategies, and advice drawn from my artistic journey to help you build a collection that’s uniquely yours.

Understand Why You Want to Collect Art

Before buying your first art piece, ask yourself: What’s driving your interest in art collecting? Is it an emotional connection, aesthetic enjoyment, a desire to support living artists, or a long-term investment? Your motivations will help define your collecting style.

For example, collectors of my piece "Blue Man" often cite its emotional resonance, while others are drawn to "Jazz Rebirth" for its bold expression and layered textures. Each purchase becomes a reflection of personal taste and purpose.

Start with What You Love

This is the golden rule. Whether browsing in galleries or scrolling through online shops, pay attention to what moves you. Don’t worry about matching your sofa or impressing others—art is about living with what you love.

If a piece like "The Tormented," with its haunting faceless figures and tactile collage, speaks to you emotionally, that connection is reason enough to make it yours.

Set a Budget and Begin Small

You don’t need to be wealthy to start collecting art. Great pieces can be found at every price point—from small originals to limited edition prints. Start small. Explore works priced under $500 or even artist-signed prints to get your feet wet.

Many of my collectors began with a print or small canvas and gradually invested in larger originals as their confidence—and walls—grew.

Visit Galleries, Art Fairs & Artist Studios

Experiencing art in person can change your perspective. Explore local galleries, art markets, and open studio events. These provide excellent opportunities to engage with artists, ask questions, and uncover new styles.

I often invite collectors into my studio for personal viewings. It deepens the collector-artist relationship and allows you to understand the story behind the work.

Do Your Research, But Trust Your Gut

Understanding the artist's background, career development, and technique is helpful, but don’t lose yourself in research. Art evokes emotion. If a piece lingers in your thoughts for days, it likely deserves a place in your life.

Build a Relationship with the Artist

Knowing the artist behind the work adds emotional and cultural depth to your collection. When you buy directly, you’re not just supporting an artist but entering into a dialogue.

If you’re drawn to my work, feel free to reach out. I love hearing from collectors about what resonates and offering insight into the materials, meaning, and process.

Thoughtfully Mix Media and Styles

Don’t be afraid to combine styles as your collection grows—strive for harmony. A common thread could be a color palette, emotional tone, or conceptual theme.

Many collectors pair "Jazz Rebirth" with more minimal works, as the contrast highlights the strengths of both pieces.

Know What You’re Paying For

Originals, limited editions, giclées, and open editions all have different values. Consider these questions: Is the piece signed? Is it part of a numbered series? Is there a certificate of authenticity?

At sebastienmontel.com/works, each work includes full details on materials, dimensions, edition size, and pricing.

Keep Documentation

Always keep receipts, certificates of authenticity, and artist bios. These documents enhance your piece’s provenance and value, especially if you insure it or eventually pass it down.

Think Long-Term but Stay Present

You don’t need to predict future art market trends. Just focus on surrounding yourself with beauty and meaning. Art should evolve with you through new life chapters, places, and experiences.

Are you buying one of my pieces to celebrate a new home or life milestone? That’s the collecting that truly lasts.

Final Thoughts: Collecting as an Act of Living

Art collecting is less about decorating and more about curating your world. Each piece is a portal to emotion, memory, thought, or identity. When you collect art, you are also collecting moments.

Start slowly, stay curious, and trust your instincts. If you’re looking for a place to begin, you’re warmly invited to explore my available works here.

FAQs

• 1. Do I need to be rich to collect art?

  Not at all. You can start collecting with a modest budget by focusing on prints, small originals, and emerging artists.

• 2. What should I look for when buying a piece?

  Focus on emotional impact, quality of materials, and authenticity. Ask questions and read the artist biographies.

• 3. Is it okay to buy art online?

  Yes—especially if the artist or gallery provides clear photos, detailed descriptions, and return policies. Many collectors confidently purchase from my online shop.

• 4. How do I choose my first artwork?

  Choose something that speaks to you emotionally. If you’re still unsure, start with a print of a piece that lingers in your mind

• 5. Should art match my decor?

  Only if you want it to; the best collections reflect the collector, not the furniture.