Curated by art advisors

Curated by art advisors

Starting an art collection can be a disconcerting task!

Often times the art industry can come across as too academic or unnervingly pretentious, not to mention having to traverse the abundance of artists and artworks within the field. The task of trying to decide what type of aesthetic one enjoys can be overwhelming, never mind deciphering investment possibilities that go with it! Despite the fact that you could be an avid art enthusiast - navigating this unknown territory can be daunting to say the least. Curated by art advisors set out to help individuals start or develop collections through offering insider advice and insight. We aim to provide clients with knowledge across a broad field within the arts, beginning collections with works on paper, limited editioned works, minor works by major artists and young or up-and-coming artists.

Our philosophy is based on the principle of, first and foremost, finding that key piece that you ‘want’ and would like in your home, and secondly, providing advice in terms of establishing a meaningful collection with possible investment value.  It is important to remember that not all ‘great’ art is expensive, and not all ‘expensive’ art is great, but at the same time, bargain art only exists in retrospect. Curated by art advisors understand that each purchase involves a certain level of risk, however emptying your pockets in order to establish a meaningful art collection is not the only way to begin.  

As such, Curated by art advisors aim to provide clients with sound advice when searching for the perfect piece for their collections – whether establishing a new collection or expanding on an existing collection. We provide informed suggestions, considering the client’s aesthetic interests, as well as artist developments in the industry. We understand that committing to a work of art can be daunting and, so we aim to provide information in order to guide the client in making informed choices.

The South African contemporary art market is alive with possibility and, considering the current interest in art from the continent, now is really the time to start that collection!

Curated by art advisors aim to assist collectors in terms of:

• Establishing what aesthetic appeals to the client, whilst maintaining consideration to the context of display;
• Providing relevant and desirable options that would be of interest to the client whilst maintaining the given budget limitations;
• Providing the client with options in order to expand the aesthetic of their collection across a range of mediums;
• Assisting the client in establishing a balanced collection that includes work by both established and up-and-coming artists;
• Curating the client’s collection and, where needed, reinstalling the collection according to required home/business aesthetic.

Frequently asked questions for potential art buyers:

What is the minimum budget that one can allocate to beginning a collection?

Beginning an art collection does not mean you will have to take out a loan. Purchasing a great piece of art is possible on a budget of about R5000. Works on paper and editioned works are advisable when beginning a collection as they provide an entry point for owning pieces by established artists at a reasonable price. Balancing these works with original work by artists gaining popularity within the art market is an attentive solution for navigating the market.

What type of aesthetic should I enjoy as an art buyer?

There is no ‘correct’ aesthetic that one should buy into, as art is subjective and based on personal taste. As such, we suggest buying art that you like, and not fashionable status symbols. You have to live with the works and half of an artwork’s investment return is the pleasure of looking at them.

Should I consider my art collection, primarily, as an investment?

First and foremost – buying art should be based on passion, enjoyment and appreciation! It is unwise to consider an art collection, primarily, as an investment as art gains value over time. Buying what you enjoy is important, as you need to be prepared to hang onto art for some time before selling it at a profit.

How do I know which artists / artworks to buy?

The best way to gain knowledge is to visit galleries, read up on artists and attend art fairs. Art Fairs are a good way to gain knowledge of the art industry and to compare artists and galleries all under one roof. Something to keep in mind when beginning a collection is not to buy too much too soon! Instead, rather build up a quality collection!

For more information contact us at: info@curatedbycollective.com

To see some of our curated exhibitions visit us at curatedbycollective