There are unending ways to express yourself in 2024: your clothes, your playlist, your Instagram, and even your reading list. One of the most intimidating options is an art collection. Unlike the quirky knick-knacks you picked up at the flea market or the Ikea DIY hack, art with a capital “A” feels much weightier and more out of reach. 

We consulted Sonya Sparks, the owner and chief curator at Sparks Gallery in San Diego, for tips on starting a beautiful and fulfilling art collection or continuing to develop what you already have.

Trust Your Gut, and Your Eye

The most important thing is that you love the art you live with and that it moves you somehow. Purchasing original artwork is about more than just decoration and styling; it’s about emotionally connecting with the artist and the work. But the aesthetics of your home can be a good place to start. Consider the colors and styles you’ve already surrounded yourself with if you’re not sure what to look for.

“I also recommend a mood board to get ideas for color or theme before committing,” says Sparks. Many collectors also work with interior designers who can source from galleries, directly from artists, or production pieces that are budget-friendly. “

Measure Twice, Purchase Once 

Take this advice both literally and metaphorically. Literally, measure that wall more than once. Quadruple check that the piece you’re looking to buy will fit comfortably in the space you picked for it. Metaphorically, don’t feel rushed into a purchase. Though there’s something of a timeline because you don’t want anyone else to buy the artwork first, you should feel 100% comfortable with your choice.

“Request more time to make a decision. Even if you feel like it’s a right-choice purchase, reputable art sellers will appreciate your need to think about it,” says Sparks. “And if you feel pressured to purchase, then it’s best to walk away. A pushy salesperson could be a sign of larger problems in their business, like artificially inflating pricing to try to cover their increasing expenses.

Stay Organized & Prepared

A lot of owning art is about emotions, aesthetics, and taste, but there is also a logistical side. Keep an organized record of your purchases, the gallery and dealer you purchase through, and the artist’s information. This will be helpful if you want to return to someone you’ve previously worked with. Sparks also emphasizes that including art in your estate planning is important. Especially if you’re purchasing financially or emotionally significant works, have someone selected to inherit it when the time comes.

“Keep a folder of documents for all the artwork in your collection so that you can easily obtain appraisals for valuation or for legacy planning,” says Sparks. “You can keep these in digital or hard copy format.” 

Watch the Conversation Flourish

Once you purchase the artwork, all you have to do is enjoy it. The painting, sculpture, or collage you fall in love with will bring joy to your everyday actions in your home. It will also serve as a conversation piece when you have guests over and as an aesthetic manifestation of yourself.

“Art found in galleries can be much more than just a decorative element for the home,” says Sparks. “Art is a powerful tool for sparking conversation and promoting dialogue on important social and cultural issues. Collectors often enjoy sharing with guests the story of how the work was made, or how they acquired the work.”