Collecting Art: A Beginner’s Guide

Art collecting, a multi-faceted endeavor, necessitates meticulous attention, planning, and expertise. Collectors must comprehensively understand the art market and their individual goals and preferences to make informed decisions. This article delves into critical aspects of art collecting, encompassing the role of art advisors, the emerging trend of fractional ownership, the categorization of art as an asset class, proper insurance for collections, tax and estate planning, risks, and essential considerations.

The Role of Art Advisors

Art advisors provide guidance and support throughout the art collecting process. They assist individuals and institutions in identifying their goals, researching and selecting appropriate artworks, negotiating transactions, and managing collections. Art advisors typically possess extensive knowledge of art history, artists, and the art market, offering valuable insights into trends, values, and risks.

According to ArtNet, the global art advisory market is valued at approximately $2 billion, with around 1,000 industry professionals in the US offering advisory services (ArtNet News, 2021). Forbes emphasizes that while anyone can purchase art, selecting a worthwhile investment requires the expertise and connections provided by a professional art advisor (Forbes, 2020). The Balance highlights the inherent risk when acquiring art, which a professional advisor can significantly mitigate by providing crucial information about the artwork’s condition, provenance, fair market value, and whether it is overpriced (The Balance, 2020).

Fractional Ownership: A Novel Approach to Art Investment

Fractional ownership, an emerging concept in the art industry, allows multiple investors to share ownership of a single artwork or collection. This trend offers access to high-quality artworks that may be beyond an individual’s means or risk tolerance while providing diversification and liquidity benefits. Bloomberg reports that collective art ownership accounted for approximately 8% of the art market in 2019, emerging as a means for investors to access affordable and diversified art portfolios (Bloomberg, 2020). CNBC affirms this trend, stating that fractional ownership, which enables people to acquire a small portion of a multi-million dollar work or collection, has increased in popularity (CNBC, 2020).

Investors should evaluate the sponsor’s reputation and track record, the offering’s terms and fees, the artwork’s quality and authenticity, and the exit strategy. Fractional ownership can be structured as a limited liability company or partnership, wherein investors hold shares or units representing their ownership stake. CNBC notes that in 2020, the fine art and collectibles market grew by 7%, reaching $206 billion, driven by a 12% growth in the online market (CNBC, 2020).

Art as an Asset Class

The classification of art as an asset class is gaining popularity among investors seeking diversification and a hedge against inflation and global uncertainties. Deloitte asserts that art investment returns have outperformed traditional asset classes such as real estate, commodities, and bonds over the long-term horizon (Deloitte, 2020). The 2021 Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report determined that the global art market reached an estimated value of $50.1 billion in 2020, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic (Art Basel & UBS, 2021).

Art investors must conduct thorough research and analysis on the art market and specific artworks and artists of interest without relying solely on subjective tastes or emotions. Factors such as provenance, authenticity, condition, and valuation should be considered. The Art Market Monitor highlights that the Contemporary Art market outperformed the S&P 500 by approximately 174% in the 21 years ending in 2018 (Art Market Monitor, 2019).

Insurance for Art Collections

A critical aspect of art collecting is safeguarding collections against potential risks, such as theft, damage, or loss. Collectors should consider obtaining appropriate insurance coverage tailored to their collection’s needs and value. Artnet reports that recent data indicates the amount of art insured worldwide has reached $16 billion, doubling the amount from the previous decade (Artnet News, 2021).

Art insurance can protect against many perils, including natural disasters, water damage, transit accidents, forgery, and theft. Forbes advises collectors to seek a policy customized to their unique needs rather than a generic one (Forbes, 2020). Artnet notes that premiums generally range between 0.1% and 2% of the collection’s value, with non-profit museums typically paying less than their corporate counterparts (Artnet News, 2021).

Tax and Estate Planning Considerations

Art collecting can entail significant tax implications and may be subject to various laws and regulations. Collectors should be aware of tax laws concerning the acquisition, ownership, donation, and sale of art in their jurisdiction. Depending on the circumstances, collectors may be subject to capital gains taxes, sales taxes, use taxes, estate and gift taxes, and income taxes. Art collectors should collaborate with qualified tax advisors who can offer tailored solutions and guidance.

Estate planning is a vital aspect of art collecting, particularly for those with substantial collections. Collectors should develop an estate plan addressing their posthumous intentions for their collection. Strategies such as creating a trust, donating artwork to a museum or charity, or transferring ownership to family members can help ensure the collection is preserved and managed according to the collector’s intentions. Collaborating with estate planning attorneys and art advisors can help create a comprehensive and effective plan.

Risks

Art collecting involves risks that collectors must be aware of. The art market can be volatile and subject to sudden demand, taste, and supply shifts. Art prices can fluctuate based on economic conditions, auction dynamics, and changes in the art world. Moreover, the art world can be vulnerable to fraud, forgery, and misrepresentation, undermining the value and authenticity of artworks. Collectors should conduct thorough due diligence on potential purchases and work with qualified professionals who can verify the authenticity and provenance of artworks. Additionally, collectors should be mindful of the risks associated with storing, transporting, and displaying artwork, such as damage or theft.

Important Considerations

Several critical considerations should be taken into account when collecting art. Firstly, collectors should have a clear purpose and strategy in mind. It is paramount to identify goals, preferences, and budgets and focus on building a collection that reflects their tastes and values. Collectors should also have an in-depth understanding of the art market and the specific artists and artworks they are interested in.

Secondly, collectors should invest in proper storage, transportation, and display facilities for their artworks. Artworks should be stored in a safe and secure environment that meets conservation standards and protects against damage, theft, and environmental hazards. Artworks should also be displayed to enhance their beauty and preserve their integrity.

Thirdly, collectors should cultivate relationships with qualified professionals such as art advisors, appraisers, conservators, and insurers. These professionals can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the art collecting process, from acquisition to disposition.

Lastly, collectors should be passionate and enjoy the art collecting process. Collecting art should be a fulfilling and enriching experience that provides aesthetic and emotional satisfaction. Collectors should focus on building a collection that reflects their personality, represents their vision, and that they can enjoy for years to come.

Art collecting can be a fulfilling and rewarding endeavor requiring careful consideration, planning, and knowledge. By taking into account critical aspects of art collecting, such as working with an art advisor, fractional ownership, art as an asset class, insuring art collections, tax and estate planning considerations, risks, and important considerations, art collectors can make informed decisions and enjoy their collections for years to come. As the art market continues to evolve and adapt to global changes, collectors must remain vigilant, informed, and adaptable in their approach, fostering relationships with professionals and cultivating a deeper understanding of the complexities of art collecting. By doing so, collectors can confidently navigate the intricate world of art and derive emotional and financial satisfaction from their collections.