How to Start an Art Collection on Any Budget
- Katie Phillips
- Dec 27, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 8
So You Want to Start an Art Collection...
Countless homes are filled with mass-produced art—and rightfully so. It's a budget-friendly solution that matches the decor. However, these mass-produced pieces are missing two important things: soul and originality. Original art instantly elevates a room in a way that's hard to explain unless you've felt it firsthand. The problem? That luxury often comes with a price.
If you’ve ever dreamed of filling your home with meaningful, original artwork—but assumed it was out of reach—you’re not alone. The good news is that starting an art collection doesn't mean shelling out thousands of dollars or requiring expert knowledge. Anyone can start an art collection, no matter the budget. Whether you’re drawn to bold abstract pieces, soft florals, expressive landscapes, or charming birds (ahem… a favorite of mine!), there are more accessible ways than ever to bring original art into your life.
Keep reading to learn practical art collecting tips, where to find affordable original art, and how to start an art collection that grows with you over time. And yes—you can do all of this without breaking the bank.
Tip 1: Start With What You Love
Before you worry about budgets or sizing, begin with this: What kind of art sparks joy or curiosity for you?
Maybe you’re drawn to:
Contemporary, colorful abstracts
Delicate florals
Moody, atmospheric scenes
Understanding your taste is the first step to starting an art collection you’ll be proud of. Simply begin by collecting your ideas on a Pinterest board or scrolling through Instagram. Over time, you'll notice a pattern. Let your gut guide you. The best collections start from passion.
Tip 2: Learn the Story Behind the Art
One of the best parts of collecting original work is getting to know the artist behind it. Understanding the meaning, inspiration, and process instantly deepens your connection to the piece. Follow artists on Instagram, read their newsletters, or explore the stories shared on their websites. This not only enriches your experience, but it also helps you become a more confident collector.
Tip 3: Set a Realistic Budget
You don’t need a huge budget to build your collection. In fact, many collectors begin with small purchases and gradually expand over time.
Here are a few ideas to work it into your budget:
Decide on a monthly or yearly “art fund.”
Set aside $30/month ($1/day) into a "birthday" fund. Then you've got $360 to gift yourself a new piece and celebrate the big day.
Start a tradition with your spouse/partner and pick out a new piece for your anniversary.
Going on vacation? I personally love to buy a new piece when I travel as a souvenir. Work the cost into your vacation budget.
Start with smaller works like mini paintings, works on paper, or studies.
Look for payment plans (many artists offer them).
Remember: it’s completely okay to build slowly. Every piece you add is a meaningful step.
Tip 4: Look for Affordable Original Art (It Exists!)
There are so many places to find affordable original art—you just have to know where to look. Here are a few great sources:
1. Independent Artist Websites
Buying directly from an artist (like on my website!) means:
Better pricing
No added gallery markup
Supporting the artist in the most direct way
2. Open Studios, Festivals & Art Markets
Local art markets often have beautiful original work at a wide range of prices.
3. Small Works & Studies
Many artists create smaller pieces or practice studies priced at accessible levels. These are perfect for new collectors.
4. Limited Edition Prints
If you’re not ready for a larger canvas, high-quality limited edition prints offer the look and feel of fine art at a lower investment. Although these aren't originals, an artist print can still be more heartfelt than mass-produced pieces mentioned earlier. Learn about the different types of artist prints and how they compare to originals.
Tip 5: Start Small, Then Build
You don’t need to wait until you can afford a gallery wall. Begin with:
A single small canvas
A framed print
A mini collection of 6x6 pieces you can fit on a bookshelf or desk
As your collection grows, you can rearrange, curate, and expand your display. Over time, you’ll start noticing your tastes evolving—and that’s part of the fun.
Tip 6: Think Long-Term
The first thing to remember is this: don't worry about matching your sofa or specific decor. Most original pieces will stay with you for a lifetime—long after you've donated that sofa to Goodwill. When you buy art you truly love (not just what’s trendy), your collection becomes personal, cohesive, and deeply meaningful.
The most rewarding art collections are built over years, not days. Each piece becomes a chapter of your story—where you were, what inspired you, and what you wanted more of in your life.
Bonus Tip: Display Your Collection with Pride
Once you start collecting, displaying your art is just as important as selecting it. Here are some tips to showcase your pieces beautifully:
Create a Gallery Wall: Arrange your pieces in a way that tells a story. Mix sizes and frames for an eclectic look.
Rotate Your Art: Change your display seasonally or whenever you feel like it. This keeps your space fresh and exciting.
Use Proper Lighting: Highlight your art with good lighting. It can make a huge difference in how your pieces are perceived.
Consider the Space: Think about where each piece will go. A large canvas might be perfect over a sofa, while smaller works can fill nooks and crannies.
Final Thoughts: You Can Start an Art Collection Today
Whether you’re investing in your first piece of affordable original art or adding to an already growing collection, I hope these art collecting tips help you build a home filled with beauty, emotion, and stories that reflect you.
Of course, if you’re ready to dive in, I've got just the place for you to start. Check out some of my original pieces all priced under $100.
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