Why You Should Start Collecting Art?

 

Art has always been more than decoration. It’s been a symbol of identity, status, intellect, and culture—used for centuries by dynasties, royalties, and the elite to showcase power and taste. From the halls of Egyptian pharaohs to Renaissance palaces, collecting art has long been a way to tell the world: I’ve made it.

And guess what? That hasn’t changed.

A Quick Dive Into the History of Art Collecting

Art collecting dates back thousands of years. In ancient China, emperors curated scrolls and paintings as a display of scholarly refinement. During the Renaissance, European monarchs like the Medici family commissioned and collected art not just for pleasure, but to cement their legacy and political dominance.

In the 17th century, Dutch merchants—new money at the time—began collecting art as a way to assert their rising status. It wasn’t just royalty anymore. Art became the currency of cultural capital.

Fast forward to today, and the essence is still the same. Having paintings in your home—whether antique or cutting-edge—still signals wealth, prestige, and good taste.

Art Is Still About Status (And That’s Okay)

I once asked an “average white man” if he’d ever rent art for his home. His answer?

“If I want to show that I’ve done well in life for my friends on my birthday, I would rent a whole curated exhibition just to show off my prestige, my status, and wealth.”

There’s honesty in that. Today, art is both personal and performative. And here’s the interesting part—you don’t even have to own it. You can rent it.

Raud Gallery offers rental services for curated art exhibitions—whether for a one-time event, or to elevate your everyday space. Want a full gallery in your living room for a dinner party? Done. Need a bold piece for your office lobby? We’ve got you. Reach out at gallery@liinaraud.com and let’s make it happen.

But Art Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

Art is luxury, yes—but it doesn’t have to be out of reach.

You can begin collecting with small, affordable, unique works. Skip the mass-produced prints—they’re widely reproduced and don’t hold value. Valuable prints (think original Warhol or Lichtenstein posters) can be astronomically priced, and they’re out of reach for most first-time collectors.

Instead, start with a one-of-a-kind painting from an emerging artist. It’s more personal, and potentially much more rewarding in the long term.

How to Collect Wisely

If you're serious about collecting art as an investment—or even as a long-term passion—do your research. The key? Look beyond social media fame. Just because someone’s big on Instagram doesn’t mean their work will hold value.

Instead, focus on artists who are gaining recognition through institutional support: gallery shows, museum exhibitions, critical acclaim. These are the signs that an artist is being accepted into the “classical school”—the art world’s way of saying this work matters.

Ask for the artist’s CV—you’ll want to know where they’ve shown, who’s representing them, and where they’re headed. Most artists love discussing their journey and are open to sharing. Or, let Raud Gallery do the background check for you. We’ve helped collectors identify artists on the rise—some of whom are now showing internationally and seeing serious value growth in their work.

Bottom Line: Don’t Wait to Start

Whether you're interested in:

• Renting art for your next event or home makeover

• Building a personal collection with long-term value

• Investing in the next big name in contemporary art

We’re here to help.

Reach out to us at gallery@liinaraud.com. Whether it’s one piece or an entire exhibition, whether you’re a first-time collector or looking to grow your investment—Raud Gallery has your back.

Art isn’t just for the elite anymore. It’s for those who are curious, ambitious, and ready to live with intention and taste.