Breaking Down Myths, Jargon, and Fear for New Collectors
Buying original art should be exciting, not intimidating. But for many first-time collectors—and even seasoned art lovers—the process can feel overwhelming. What should you look for? How do you know if something’s worth the price? and is it really only for the wealthy?
At Gallery One, we believe that everyone deserves to experience the joy of living with art. So we’ve created this simple guide to help you feel confident, informed, and inspired to start or grow your collection.
Myth #1: “Buying art is only for the wealthy.”
Truth: You don’t need a trust fund to own original art.
Many people think collecting art is reserved for elite investors or gallery insiders. In reality, artists and galleries offer work at a wide range of prices. At Gallery One, we represent both emerging and established artists, which means you can find original pieces that will suit your budget and space.
Tip: Set a budget, then chat with us about works within that range. We’ll help you find something meaningful without overspending.
Decoding the Jargon:
A quick glossary to decode gallery speak
• Original Art – A one-of-a-kind piece created by the artist, not a reproduction. This might be created with oil paint, acrylic or mixed media on linen, canvas or board. It could also be a sculpture!
• Limited Edition – A print or artwork made in a set number (e.g. 1 of 50), signed and often numbered by the artist.
• Archival – Materials that are high-quality and long-lasting.
• Provenance – The history of ownership of a piece, often relevant for high-end or historical works.
• Commission – A custom artwork made especially for you by an artist. This works best with the help of the gallery to aid in the brief and administration.
Still confused? Just ask us—we love helping people understand the language of art.
Fear Factor: “What if I buy the wrong thing?”
Truth: There’s no such thing.
Art is deeply personal. The “right” piece is the one that speaks to you—whether it’s the colours, the story, or the emotion it stirs. It doesn’t need to match your couch or follow trends. Trust your instincts and be guided by the experts.
Remember: Taste evolves. What matters most is that you connect with the work and it is something you want to live with everyday.
Common Questions from New Collectors:
“How do I know it’s a good investment?”
While some art does appreciate over time, the real value lies in how it enhances your life. If you’re buying purely for resale, you’re entering a different game. But if you’re buying for joy, connection, and beauty? You can’t go wrong.
“Where do I even start?”
Start by browsing. Come into the gallery, explore online, or follow us on Instagram/Facebook. Note which artists or styles you keep coming back to. Don’t rush—art is a relationship, not a race. But also don’t be too slow, as when we say you will miss out, we mean it, as time again clients see work they love, but someone else does too!
Insider Tips for First-Time Buyers
• Ask questions. We’re here to help, not pressure you.
• Start small. Your first piece doesn’t have to be huge or expensive.
• Follow your heart. Forget trends. Buy what you love.
Our Promise at Gallery One
We’re are a welcoming gallery, we’re your partners in building a collection that reflects your taste, your home, and your story. Whether you’re browsing or ready to buy, we’ll walk you through every step, jargon and judgement free.
Ready to explore? Visit us in person at Gallery One on the Gold Coast, or browse our latest collections online.
Have questions? Reach out—we’re always happy to chat. Send us an email or give us a call to find out more.