When you’re buying original art for the first time, the most important thing isn’t the price tag, the artist’s reputation, or whether it perfectly matches your home. It’s the feeling. That gut-level connection to a painting—that’s everything.
Does it stop you in your tracks? Does it stay on your mind long after you’ve seen it? Maybe you’re walking through a gallery or scrolling online and you find yourself circling back to that one painting. Even after looking at dozens of others, something about that one piece lingers. You keep thinking about it later that day, the next morning, maybe even a week later. That’s the kind of connection that tells you a painting might be meant for you. It might speak to a part of you you didn’t even know needed speaking to. And honestly, that emotional pull is the number one thing I believe every collector—first-timer or not—should listen to.
Of course, budget plays a role too, and it should. Not every piece will be within reach, but that doesn’t mean your art-collecting journey has to end before it starts. Many artists (myself included!) offer smaller works, payment plans, or even commissions at different sizes and price points. If you see something you love that’s just out of your range, reach out. There may be something similar available, or the artist may be open to working with you to create something custom that’s still deeply personal and meaningful. It’s always worth asking.
Another helpful tip—especially if you have a specific spot in mind for your future artwork—is to measure that space. Knowing the size of the wall or the area you want to fill can really help you (and the artist) find the right piece for that space. A painting that’s too small can feel lost, while one that’s too large might overwhelm the room. Having measurements on hand makes everything easier and ensures you end up with a piece that feels just right.
And while it’s good to think about your décor, colors you’re drawn to, and the overall vibe of your home, don’t let any of that hold you back too much. Sometimes the best art-collecting moments happen when a painting surprises you—when it’s not something you would’ve picked from a color swatch, but it sparks something real and adds emotion, warmth, and soul to a space. That’s the beauty of original art—it’s alive in a way prints and big-box store decor just can’t match.
If a large piece isn’t in the budget, start small. I always say that one small original painting can be the beginning of something much bigger. You can grow your collection slowly, add to it over time, rotate pieces seasonally, or build a gallery wall that reflects different moments in your life. There’s no one right way to be an art collector, and you don’t need to wait until you own a massive home or have a dedicated gallery wall. Your home, just as it is now, is worthy of beauty and inspiration.
And if you love an artist’s work, subscribe to their email list. Many of us offer early access to collections, special discounts, and insider previews. For example, I offer 10% off to everyone who signs up for my VIP Collector’s List. You never know when the perfect piece might pop up—and being on that list means you’ll be the first to know.
But beyond discounts and logistics, there’s something really meaningful about getting to know the artist behind the work. Ask them what inspired the painting. Learn about their process. Follow along as their work evolves. With emerging artists especially, collecting their work means growing with them—and that kind of connection is something really special.
At the end of the day, collecting art isn’t just about filling a wall. It’s about building a connection—between you and the artwork, you and the artist, and you and your own story. So if a piece moves you, if it keeps pulling you back in, don’t ignore it. That might just be the start of something beautiful.
Have any questions? Comment below or send me an email!
