The Quest for the Serious Motivations of the Serious Art Collector in Search of the Serious Emerging Artist

I received a notification from an art oriented LinkedIn group a few weeks ago asking the members what, in our collective opinion, did “serious” art collectors look for in an emerging artist before buying their work?

Hmmm. Interesting question. Worthy of serious consideration.

In the first instance, what is a “serious” art collector? Someone who views art mainly as a fiscal investment and thus collects in the hopes that the art will increase in value over time? Someone who collects original art because they love to own art that excites their passion, making their collection more of an emotional investment? Someone who lives in a really big house, with a serious amount of wall space to fill? What is it that makes the collection “serious”? Is it the quality or the quantity of the collection? Is it the “serious” price tag of the works contributing to the collection? The “serious” subject matter of the art? The collector’s overall disposition towards the collection and life in general?

The respondents weighing in on this question fall into three broad categories: Gallery owners, artists and art collectors. This is a three part article. Part 1 will explore what Gallery owners and art consultants have to say.

PART I: The Gallery Owners and Art Consultants Perspectives

According to the folks who run galleries, the serious collector wants to know that the emerging artist is serious about his/her work and self-perception: “I am a serious artist and I take my work and profession seriously, as does this gallery and (hopefully) you… the serious art collector.” Personally, I’m inclined to agree with the gallery owners. I think that’s a pretty good attitude for a serious emerging artist to have. Maybe remember to smile though, because no one likes someone who takes themselves too seriously. [READ MORE...LINK BELOW]

Click Here for More Information