Art collecting often times begins with falling in love with a particular work of art, buying it, and then becoming completely obsessed with the next acquisition. That is what I call catching the art bug! But what many do not know is that one must have a strategy when it comes to acquiring works of art to be able to create a great art collection worth preserving for generations.
A great art collection is one that is carefully curated to stand the test of time and has artworks that represent a sense of history, culture, and identity while also reflecting the collector’s personal tastes.
For example, one of the best-known art collections in the world is the one by Peggy Guggenheim, an early 20th-century socialite and bohemian who became one of the most famous art collectors in the '30s and '40s. Peggy's excellent eye for art allowed her to follow her vision and put together an art collection by her contemporaries, who formed part of the zeitgeist of European and North American art of the 20th- century. Today, her art collection receives thousands of visitors at her former home in Venice, the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the Grand Canal, which displays her impressive collection of works by legendary artists such as Picasso, Ernst, Miró, Magritte, Man Ray, Dalí, Klee, Wolfgang Paalen, and Chagall- all artists whose work continue to stand the test of time.
If you want to know how to curate a great art collection such as Peggy's, here are some key factors you must follow:
Personal vision
A great art collection often reflects the personal vision and tastes of the collector, with works that speak to their individual interests, passions, and values.
Cohesiveness
A great art collection should have a sense of cohesion, with works that complement and resonate with one another. This can be achieved through a thoughtful curatorial approach that considers themes, styles, and historical context.
Diversity
A great art collection should have a diverse range of styles, mediums, and time periods represented. This can help to provide a richer and more nuanced understanding of art history and cultural context.
Quality
A great art collection should be comprised of works of the highest quality, whether that means they are technically proficient, conceptually rich, or emotionally powerful.
Rarity
A great art collection may include works that are rare or hard to come by, which can add value and interest to the collection.
Ultimately, what makes a great art collection is subjective and varies from person to person. However, a well-curated collection showcasing diverse and high-quality works while reflecting a personal vision can be a truly inspiring and enriching experience for its viewers.
And always, buy what speaks to you personally and avoid trends.