7 Books every Art Collector should read.
If you don't know where to start, we've created a list of resources for new and seasoned collectors to learn in detail the process of finding, appreciating, and collecting contemporary art.
1. Paige West, “The Art of Buying Art: An Insider's Guide to Collecting Contemporary Art.”
In this book, a contemporary art expert and gallery owner Paige West advises the reader and walks him/her through the process of buying contemporary art. She breaks the stereotype of the contemporary art as non-original, non-tasteful and non-breathtaking in comparison to traditional paintings. Beautifully illustrated, the book will appeal to the potential art buyers as well as the art aficionados.
2. Ethan Wagner, “Collecting Art for Love, Money and More.”
Collecting Art For Love, Money and More is an insider’s guide for both the novice and experienced buyer. It reveals the motivations and secrets of successful collectors as well as providing an historical overview of the greatest collectors and their superb collections. Written by renowned art advisor Thea Westreich Wagner and her husband Ethan Wagner, this book offers clear advice on how to build and maintain a distinctive collection, from discovering new talent and accessing the best work to getting the highest returns on investment.
3. Mary Rozell, “The Art Collector's Handbook: The Definitive Guide to Acquiring and Owning Art.”
This book is for new and experienced collectors alike, as well as anyone aspiring to a professional career within today's art market. Fully revised since its first publication in 2014 to reflect the many changes which have taken place in the art market, in art law, and in the practice of collecting. Mary Rozell draws on her long experience as an art collection professional and an art lawyer to illuminate some of the myriad issues that arise when owning an art collection. Covering acquisition, inventory management, the insurance, security, storage and conservation of collections, art financing and investing, and the sharing and deaccessioning of artworks, this meticulously researched but accessible book is an essential guide to the fascinating business of collecting.
4. Lisa Hunter, "The Intrepid Art Collector. The Beginner’s Guide to Finding, Buying, and Appreciating Art on a Budget."
In The Intrepid Art Collector, Lisa Hunter shows you how to start a fine art collection without spending a fortune. This accessible, jargon-free resource contains up-to-date information on the most popular original art—everything from photography and posters to African art and animation—including where to find it and how to buy it at a fair price. Easy-to-use checklists help you evaluate original art.
5. Alan Bamberger, “The Art of Buying Art: How to evaluate and buy art like a professional collector.”
The Art of Buying Art is without a doubt the most accessible book on how to research, evaluate, price and buy artworks - for anyone who wants to buy art. Topics include:
· how to research and evaluate art prices like the professionals
· how to build a quality collection
· how to tell the difference between an original and a reproduction
6. Doug Woodham, “Art Collecting Today: Market Insights for Everyone Passionate about Art.”
Art Collecting Today is the essential practical guide to today's art market. Whether a seasoned collector, an uninitiated newcomer, or an art-world insider, readers will learn within these pages how the art marketplace works in practice and how to navigate it smartly. Those who may have been put off by art-world practices will finally feel they have the knowledge needed to participate freely and fully, and collectors will be able to pursue their passion with more confidence.
7.Sarah Thornton, “Seven Days In The Art World.”
Contemporary art has become a mass entertainment, a luxury good, a job description and, for some, a kind of alternative religion. Sarah Thornton's shrewd and entertaining fly-on-the-wall narrative takes us behind the scenes of the art world, from art school to auction house, showing us how it works, and giving us a vivid sense of being there.