So you want to be an art collector. It is sometimes mused that there is an "art" to it. But saying that may have the effect of making it more complicated than it has to be. The first thing that you have to decide is what kind of collector you want to be. Anyone who has a love for great works of art is perfectly capable of purchasing some and enjoying their pieces privately. But is it your desire to be more than that? Do you want to really know your craft, and even be recognized as a skilled buyer? If you don't know where exactly to begin, then I have a few suggestions that may just help you along.

You must first expose yourself to the craft. You'll be pleased to know that the vision of the art collector as a tuxedo wearing, pipe smoking, all knowing appraiser of all things painted only exists on movie screens. Killing yourself trying to become this is just as silly as someone agonizing over looking like their favorite model even though the magazines are air brushed. So, the first step is just to not worry about that, but simply, enjoyably, surround yourself with the art that you love to look at. Frequent your local museums and galleries. If a trip every now and then is an option for you, try vacationing in places where you can expand your knowledge with trips to their museums.

If you want to move up the ranks of collecting greatness, you have to realize that a certain amount of information on your chosen subject is required. Knowledge is power, after all. Don't worry, I'm not trying to sneak in a suggestion that you should invest in that tuxedo and pipe after all. I'm simply saying that it would be a good idea to start investing some reading time into the world of art. Visit websites with like-minded people on them. Subscribe to some magazines. Sign yourself up for some mailing lists of museums or institutions devoted to the arts so you'll be aware of what's going on.

Never underestimate the power of a little networking. Strike up a conversation with someone at an art gallery. Participate in discussions at web forums. You would be amazed at how much having people to discuss mutual interests with can increase the speed at which you learn and retain knowledge. Chances are that you may not even realize that you're learning anything at because you'll be having too much fun talking about one of your favorite subjects.

And lastly, just collect what you love and have some fun. Fine art was never really meant to be an investment, after all. While great pieces do appreciate in value, this should never be your sole motivation. The best work of art will ultimately be the one that you can stare at happily for hours.