Sarah Kefalas


There’s no right or wrong way to buy art — as long as you love what you bring home. Still, for those looking to start a collection (or simply wanting to avoid mass-market décor from places like West Elm), having a guideline can be valuable to their journey. For newcomers, the art world can feel like a maze: intimidating, expensive, and difficult to navigate. Many assume collecting is reserved for the wealthy or older generations. But we’re here to break that stereotype. Collecting art is for everyone, and there’s no gatekeeping involved. I bought my first few small pieces of art after college from young artists I’d been following. Those first purchases were empowering, I could call myself a collector! As I stare at those artworks hanging on my wall today, I’m reminded how those purchases years ago are still part of my life, investments well worth it.

With a little knowledge and confidence, you can start your journey as a collector and discover pieces that resonate with you. Getting started is always the hardest part, so by starting slow, we can build up your confidence and get you ready to start your collecting journey.

Before we speed ahead, let’s go back to the basics.


#### Identify What You Like
So, you want to buy art? Great! But it’s not as easy as making the statement and suddenly finding the perfect piece. The first step is to think about what truly speaks to you. Do you lean toward paintings, photography, or sculpture? Are you drawn to vibrant colors or more neutral palettes? Do you like abstract or figurative ones?

A good exercise is to recall a famous piece of art and consider your reaction to it. Did you like it? Why or why not? For instance: I saw Van Gogh’s Starry Night and loved the swirling style, the intense blues and yellows, and the dreamlike energy. Exercises like this help you identify what excites you — making it easier to recognize those qualities when you shop for original art.


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#### Set Your Budget
The word collector often conjures images of millionaires bidding at auction houses. In reality, art is accessible at a wide range of price points. You don’t need to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to find a piece that’s original and meaningful.

Start by determining how much you’re comfortable spending. A clear budget will guide your search and prevent overwhelm. Keep in mind that size often impacts price: larger works are typically more expensive. With a realistic budget and expectations, you can shop confidently, knowing there’s something for you.


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#### Educate Yourself
Knowledge is power in the art world. Reading about trends and artists will give you a sense of the market and help you recognize quality. Publications such as ArtNews, Artforum, and Artnet are great places to start. These outlets cover everything from global trends to emerging artists, who often sell at more accessible price points.

Think of it the same way you might read a fashion or design magazine — to learn what’s in, what’s emerging, and what fits with your personal taste. These publications will give you a better understanding of what you like and how to define it. Arming yourself with knowledge builds confidence and ensures you’re not walking into the art world blind.


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#### Start Local
One of the best ways to shop for art is to experience it in person. Visit craft fairs, art shows, galleries, or local open studios. These settings let you see the work up close, meet the artists, and ask questions about their process. Buying directly from the artist often means better prices and a personal connection to the piece.

Small galleries can also be wonderful resources. While prices may be higher than at craft fairs, you’ll benefit from the gallery’s curation and expertise. Plan an “art crawl” day where you visit a few local galleries or fairs — treating it like a shopping trip. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to immerse yourself in your local art scene.


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#### Branch Out Online
Once you’ve explored your local community, expand your search online. Today, artists use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to showcase and sell their work. Browsing these platforms can expose you to a wide variety of styles, though the sheer volume can feel overwhelming. Dedicated platforms such as Cohart streamline the process. Cohart allows you to filter by medium, size, and price, helping you find work that fits both your taste and your budget. It’s also a great way to discover artists from diverse backgrounds, broadening your horizons beyond your immediate location.

#### Take It One Step at a Time
Starting an art collection may feel intimidating at first. But like any new venture, it becomes manageable when you take it step by step. Identify what you like. Set a budget. Educate yourself. Explore locally. Then branch out online. Each step builds your confidence and helps you make informed, thoughtful decisions. Ultimately, the goal is to find a piece that you love and can live with for a long time. Hopefully you feel well equipped and ready to dive headfirst into the world of art and being a collector.


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Your guide to start your journey as a collector and discover artworks that resonate with you.



Buying Art In Your 20’s (With No Clue How To Start)

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