They embellish our homes, tell stories and reflect our own taste: we are talking about works of art. Whether painting, sculpture or installation, every taste can be catered for in this genre. Collecting art is not only fun, it can also be a really good investment. But how do I become an art collector? How do I get started and how do I avoid falling for fakes?
We asked Katharina Zetter-Karner, a proven expert and owner of the gallery at the Albertina. She recently opened a new art space, Zetter Projects, at Lobkowitzplatz in 1010 Vienna – and is thus putting the spotlight on local art.
Your 5 tips for future art collectors at a glance.
#1: Definieren Sie ihren eigenen Geschmack!
Art touches and arouses emotions. So if you see a work of art at a friend’s house that you like and it still looks good the next day and the day after that, that’s a good start. Visit exhibitions, museums and galleries to find out what you like and what you don’t like. You will also learn about different artists, art-historical periods, materials and techniques.
#2: Kaufen Sie nicht wahllos, sondern folgen Sie einer Linie!
It also exists in art – love at first sight. I was lucky enough to grow up with art (her mother Christa is a sculptor and founded the gallery at the Albertina in 1973, note) and therefore had no fear of thresholds. But you realize quite quickly what you like and what you don’t like. And what works together. Here, of course, a gallery owner is also a good advisor who can follow the line with his recommendations. The service usually also includes hanging and lighting support.
#3: Vertrauen Sie Experten!
Speaking of gallery owners: the better they know you, the more likely they are to know what you like. Of course, a basis of trust is important here, you have to feel comfortable with each other, only then can you give and receive proper advice. Of course, there are also platforms that are reputable and good – but often the certainty that a work of art is genuine is not guaranteed. So if you want to buy online: Be sure to read the small print! Certificates of authenticity are also a must – whether online or in the gallery. Unless you buy directly from the artist.
#4: Ab wann ist man ein Sammler?
For me, a collector is someone who doesn’t buy because they have an empty wall at home. But also someone who buys when he has no more space. But that comes naturally. If you have a passion for art that can inspire me in the long term – then I have what it takes. But you can also collect on a small scale.
#5: Was kaufe ich, wenn ich Kunst als Investition sehe?
It’s similar to share trading – you don’t know today what a work of art will be worth in three years’ time. Of course, there are “blue chips” that have endured in the development of art. But even here there are fluctuations. In principle, art must be seen as a medium or long-term investment. It also helps to go to the Academy’s graduating class from time to time and choose young artists who are just starting out. I think it would be nice if more people did that.
Information on current exhibitions can be found at: www.galerie-albertina.at or www.zetterprojects.at
All photos:Gallery at the Albertina-Zetter (Exhibition Peter Weihs)
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