According to recent data released by the National Endowment for the Arts, general participation in art related events has been severely reduced.  During 2008, most art forms saw a decline in the number of patrons supporting performances or exhibits. The general population that actually took part in such events also appeared to be aging, a trend that has shown an apparent streak of apathy about the arts in younger generations.

Most surprisingly, well educated Americans are shying away from the art scene these days and collectors, both young and old, have also shown restrain in their purchasing habits. Evidently, the survey was performed during the worst economic crisis endured by Americans since the 1930’s and this factor unequivocally tainted the results. Nevertheless, the amount of disposable income in the average American household has shrunk dramatically and for most people, buying art has tumbled to a very low position in the list of priorities.

So who is buying artwork these days? What does the average collector look like under these conditions? Well, since collecting is more about who you are rather than what you actually collect, it all depends on what your reaction to the crisis has been. The drive to collect does not disappear so easily and for many collectors this has been a process of adaptation rather than an abrupt extinction.

Now more than ever, it is easy to distinguish certain traits that all collectors have in common. They are what propels them to collect no matter what their interest or the economic environment.

Collectors relish ownership of the object itself. A close connection with the item is extremely gratifying, as is the sense of communion with the time and place where the object came from.

Collectors also like to make their own rules. The number of items, quality, time period or medium for example, are all personally determined by the individual. The limits, if any, are always established solely by the personal taste and preferences of the collector himself.

Another important trait present in building up a collection is the sheer enjoyment of the chase. Finding a piece, even when it turns to be a fortuitous discovery, brings a sense of achievement to the collector.

A need for personal expression is also manifested through the objects that make up the collection. The collector defines himself by choosing certain objects and rejecting others. The bigger picture, so to speak, is the tale of why the collection came to be. The story is not in the objects, but rather inside the collector. Inevitably, it always is a very particular narrative exclusive to that individual. As a result, no two collections are ever alike.

Finally, the most curious of effect is that of transference.  The collector is the self appointed care taker of the objects. There is continuous feedback between the collection and its owner. The beauty, eccentricity and uniqueness of the objects are nurtured by him. In turn, these qualities are assumed by the collector and accordingly passed on to subsequent owners.

If you posses any of these traits you are a collector at heart. Whether you start collecting comic books or fine art you will derive the same kind of satisfaction from your pursuit. It is a passion like no other.

While the same rules apply for collecting pretty much anything you can think of, collecting fine art seems to be the cause of some trepidation among neophytes. The truth is that collecting in general is an enjoyable journey of discovery and learning.

The myth of prior knowledge that discourages many novice collectors is a misleading notion. You should not feel that you lack the expertise needed to successfully put a collection together. That will come in time and it will grow as your collection expands.

John Lennon said it best: “All you need is love”…and in the world of collecting this is the very first and most important requirement. A deep love for the object itself be it a quilt, a vase or a painting, should always be the starting point of a collection.

After that, the hunt begins. Enjoy this process and be patient. Experience the joy of searching on your own terms and go where your heart takes you. Never allow someone else to select items for your collection as it would transform it into something impersonal and disconnected from you.

Buy those objects that tug at your heartstrings. Don’t think in terms of monetary returns or investment and don’t worry if you cannot afford works by internationally known artists. The emerging artists you are supporting today could very well be the famous figures of the future.

Notice how your taste changes over time. If your focus shifts into a different arena a great option is to trade or even donate the items you wish to remove from your collection. Perhaps, you could give a piece to a friend who loves it and, in turn, spark the launching of a new collection. Eventually, you will find your niche. Specialization on a specific medium, style or period emerges with time.

Above all be a good caretaker of your artworks. You are a link in a long chain that will go on for as long as a piece remains intact. Read about how to best expand the life of you collection and how to protect and properly store the items that you so lovingly and patiently gathered.

Time will do the rest and you will acquire a great deal of experience and an education that no other pursuit could have provided. The artwork you selected for your collection will tell your story and your collection will be a tangible and beautiful reflection of who you are inside.