A great collection need not cost six figures. For the beginning collector, the hardest part of starting out can be knowing how much to spend... and sticking to that amount. We asked Manhattan art advisor
Heidi Lee-Komaromi
how to create a first-class collection for $10,000, and to offer some tips along the way on how to budget for a collection you can be proud of.
1. 2nd Artists Space Annual Edition Portfolio , 2011 , Anne Collier, Trisha Donnelly , Guyton\Walker, Nick Relph , Dexter Sinister, Danh Vo , T.J. Wilcox : $2,500
Lee-Komaromi highly recommends
using a portfolio as a quick way to jumpstart any collection
.
"An instant start to any collection, artist portfolios offer great value," she says. "
You get a wonderful selection of artists in one cohesive and inspiring set which can then be hung together or separately.
Artist portfolios are a real bang for your buck."
Not only is the work in this expertly curated selection a steal, it's keyed into the current moment: T.J.
Wilcox's much-anticipated solo exhibition at the
Whitney Museum
opens
September 19
.
2. Frank Worth , Dennis Hopper At Musso & Frank Grill Hollywood , 1955 : $189
"This image of a young Dennis Hopper, captured by Frank Worth, epitomizes Hollywood glamor and all the hope and excitement that surrounds it," Lee-Komaromi says.
3.
Raymond Pettibon
,
Untitled (A Sea of Grinding...)
, 2008: $5,000
"This is a classic image by Raymond Pettibon that will most likely hold it's value over time," Lee-Komaromi says. "And because his drawings are so flat they translate well as prints. The spontaneous rendering of the blue seascape and lyric text reflect his bohemian roots in California." She says, for her second tip, that editioned art can often be underrated and affordable: "
A true print is still an original work of art even though it is not one-of-a-kind."
To boot, Pettibon's latest show is currently on view at
David Zwirner
.
Lee-Komaromi suggests another print by a megawatt artist. "I love the way Kruger's used this declarative caption overlaid on a found photograph of a man's face," she says. "It's deeply engaging and the small size draws the viewer closer to the work, making for a more intimate experience. This piece can be custom-framed and matted up for just about any small wall or salon hanging." Another strength of the work, she says, is its size. "Small-sized works are also something to consider because not only are they often less expensive and they offer a more intimate experience with the art."
GRAND TOTAL: $9,689
"Building a comprehensive and thoughtful art collection that reflects your personal taste takes time and thought," Lee-Komaromi. "Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint."
