5 Places to Start Buying Art
From someone who has been collecting for nearly two decades.
I remember the first time I fell in love with artwork.
I was about 13 or 14 years old, and we were on a family cruise, celebrating my brother’s highschool graduation and my 8th grade graduation. There was an art auction, curated by Carnival, and there were three pieces that took my breath away.
At this point in my life, I had been surrounded by art since I was born. My father was a graphic designer, and we had art everywhere in the house – Both his own or found, but never purchased. I followed in his footsteps and had a talent for drawing, so school placed me in all their art classes, exposing me to a full range of styles. Yet, there was something about this triptych that I found so moving and captivating.
My parents noticed and decided they wanted to gift it to me. After all, I had an extra gold star to celebrate, because I also happened to graduate as my class’s salutatorian. Coming from a working-class, immigrant family who barely spoke English, my success was a huge accomplishment for all of us.
That gift was the start of my art collection.
Almost two decades later, my home is full of art. My husband joins in on the fun too, following my lead. Together, we have almost 70 pieces, either on display or in storage. From paintings, prints, sculptures, pottery, and more, each one has a story or a special memory. All were carefully collected and considered deeply – So you can trust that I know a thing or two about how to get started buying art.
The most critical part is to just start – Don’t overthink it, and buy based on your budget and emotions. I’m writing a detailed guide on how to think about acquiring art and curating a personal collection for your home to take it up a notch, but it starts with starting.
Without further ado, let’s get into five places to look for art and just get started, without breaking the bank.
And if the idea of buying art makes you picture intimidating gallery price tags, take a deep breath - you don’t need thousands of dollars to start building a collection you love. The best pieces aren’t always the most expensive; they’re the ones that spark an emotion – Whether its awe or laughter, pause or reflection, it’s that fact that it moves you that matters. So keep that in mind, when you start your journey and find your first few pieces.
Where to Start Buying Art
1. While Traveling
Forget airport souvenirs - art makes for a far better keepsake that’s unique. Whether it’s a ceremonial vase from Taos, a print from a booth in Bryant Park, or an artist book from Amsterdam, these finds carry memories that no mass-produced print ever could. Plus – supporting local artists while you travel? Win-win.
2. Local Antique Shops and Flee Markets
If you love the thrill of the hunt, antique stores are where the magic happens. You might stumble upon a framed landscape painting, an old botanical print, or even a quirky oil portrait that just needs a little love. They’re usually very inexpensive and exquisitely one-of-a-kind. Bonus – Older frames often have way more charm than anything you’d find new.
3. Seasonal Art Fairs
Art fairs are the perfect place to meet emerging artists and snag original pieces at reasonable prices. Spring and holiday markets are especially great for this - just be ready to fall in love with more than one piece (it happens!). Plus, chatting with the artist adds an extra layer of connection to your new find, and there’s nothing like being a first-hand patron of the arts.
4. Local Museums
Museum gift shops are low-key treasure troves. You’ll find beautifully printed works from work in the museum, and sometimes even small-run prints from local talent. If you’re looking for an easy way to bring a touch of museum magic home, this is it. Check out the postcard rack for small, affordable finds that you can later frame.
5. Etsy
Etsy is an endless rabbit hole of independent artists, offering everything from digital downloads to one-of-a-kind paintings. Warning - The options can be overwhelming, but perhaps a virtual shopping experience is what you’re craving. You can definitely search by style, color, or region, making it easy to find something that speaks to you. Pro tip – If you can swing it, get the framed version. If you opt for a digital print, plan to figure out a way to print it, either at home or with a service.
Building an art collection isn’t about how much you spend - it’s about finding pieces that make you pause, smile, and feel something.
Start with these recommendations, and over time, you might find yourself ready for gallery pieces, collector’s prints, or even sourcing specific finds.
Keep me posted on how it goes – I’d love to follow along.
D