Much to my own biased excitement, art has become more accessible and affordable in recent years. We can connect with artists directly via social media and get an intimate look at their process. While there’s no replacement for experiencing art in person, the expanded accessibility of art has opened up opportunities for the everyday person to start an art collection of their own!

I personally display original art in our home because it enhances the other design choices we make. Art brings out the true personality of our home. I can also support fellow artist friends, and it makes me happy to surround myself with others’ creativity. Collecting art no longer feels lofty or unrealistic. Nowadays, it’s all about curating what speaks to you and your personal style.

I started my own Charleston, South Carolina photography shop because I wanted to make it easy for people to start collecting fine art and surround themselves with art they love. If you live in Charleston, love visiting, or have it on your dream vacation list, I create my photographs for you and your home. Many of my customers have just begun curating their own art collection, or are adding fine art photography to their collections for the first time!

If you haven’t created your own art collection yet or are looking to expand your existing one, I’m sharing 5 reasons to start and a few tips on how to curate a collection you love.

5 Reasons to Start an Art Collection

1. Own a Completely Unique Art Collection

Investing in fine art gives you an opportunity to curate a collection that only you could. Wouldn’t you rather own pieces that speak to you and your personality? Mass marketed art doesn’t have that same spark! Target and World Market have some cute art, but I hate knowing that thousands of others own the exact piece I do! I choose original pieces that speak to me, excite me, and inspire me. My walls have been 80% blank for almost a year because Hunter and I want to take the time to choose pieces we love! Intentionality and patience are key when collecting art.

An art collection does not have to cost you thousands. Start by purchasing prints of originals or vintage pieces on Etsy (this print is so fun!). I love the idea of curating a gallery wall with a mix of original art, vintage pieces, and personal photos or objects. The great thing about an art collection is that you get to decide what that means for you.

2. Support Local & Emerging Artists

When you buy from a local artist, you’re supporting not only their livelihood, but their passion for what they do. I have built my business from the ground up and it means so much when someone supports my work! I know all other artists out there share the sentiment.

I’ve recently purchased paintings locally from Meredith Steele (now based in Denver!) and Fallon Peper. I love following them on social media and following their behind the scenes moments. I know they put so much love into their art, and I am beyond happy to support them!

If there’s an artist out there that you love following on social media, start a conversation! Explore what options they have for purchasing their art. Artists are getting so creative these days holding sales via social media. Not to mention they can provide you with suggestions for your space and more info about their pieces. I am always more than happy to help customers make informed decisions about the art they’re purchasing!

3. Elevate Your Space With Your Art Collection

Remember when we talked about buying mass-marketed decor from big box stores? Investing in original art will not only ensure you own a unique collection, it will also elevate your space. Mass-marketed art typically leans towards passing trends, while original art can be timeless. Original art is so versatile, and has become increasingly popular for décor in all rooms of the house, even bathrooms! Fine art will add a touch of sophistication and specialness to any space in your home. Plus, fine art has the ability to evolve with your space as you update décor and move spaces.

4. Bring Your Travels Home With You

I love bringing home photos, memorabilia, and meaningful souvenirs from trips. What better way to remember a special trip than to bring a reminder of it into your home? That’s exactly why I created my photography shop. So many people around the world love Charleston, and I want to transport them with my photographs. It is the #1 city in the world, after all!

5. Grow Your Investment

Unique, signed pieces of art have the ability the retain and even grow their value over the years. Depending on the trends of the time, demand, quality, artist’s reputation, and historical significance, original art has the ability to grow in value and importance. That’s just a bonus on top of loving the art you’ve collected!

Need Somewhere to Start?

Head over to my Charleston photography shop and snag a unique, film photograph of Charleston, South Carolina! Sign up here to get 15% off your first order and free shipping always on unframed prints.

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