“What I search for in art is an emotional connection and a narrative that feels personal yet universal. The best works allow me to see the world differently.” — Ingvild Goetz, German Art Collector
When it comes to collecting art, it’s not just about filling walls or following trends; it’s about finding pieces that speak to something deep inside, pieces that tell a story or change how you see the world. For the top art collectors, each piece they acquire reflects a part of themselves, a way of seeing life through someone else’s lens. So, what exactly do they look for? Let’s dive in and discover the secrets that make certain pieces irresistible.
1. It Has to Hit the Heart First
Collectors like Ingvild Goetz believe that a piece has to stir something inside—it has to move you. For her, it’s about an emotional connection, a piece that feels both personal and universal. Think of it like finding a song that just “gets” you, even if you didn’t know you needed it. The best art, Goetz says, makes you see things in a new light, giving you a glimpse of the world through someone else’s eyes. This is why so many top collectors say that the art they love most is the art that makes them feel.
2. There’s a Story Behind It
For collectors, art isn’t just about colors and composition. It’s about the story behind it—the narrative that keeps them hooked. Agnes Gund, another major collector, talks about how she’s drawn to art that leaves a lasting impact. “For me, art is more than a pretty object,” she says. “I am drawn to works that tell a story or have an emotional impact that stays with you long after.” This is a big reason why collectors spend so much time getting to know the artist and the piece’s backstory. The deeper the story, the stronger the connection, and the more that piece becomes a favorite.
3. It Should Make You Think
Some art grabs you by the heart, and some art makes you think. Eli Broad, a prominent collector, once said, “Art that compels me is not just visually appealing but also intellectually stimulating. It should ask questions, provoke thought.” For collectors like him, art should go beyond beauty. It should challenge ideas, raise questions, or make you reconsider your own perspective. It’s the kind of art that has you coming back to it, each time finding something new. Broad’s approach highlights how art, at its best, is both a visual feast and a mental puzzle.
4. Originality Always Wins
Top collectors love art that dares to be different. They’re always on the lookout for that spark of originality—whether it’s a new technique, a fresh perspective, or a bold use of materials. Collectors don’t just want art that follows trends; they want art that sets them. This passion for originality is what keeps their collections vibrant and exciting. Think of it like discovering a new favorite band or a unique style of cuisine—it’s that thrill of something genuinely fresh and groundbreaking.
5. A Connection to Culture and Time
For some collectors, art is a way to preserve history and capture the spirit of an era. Art can hold so much cultural meaning, and collectors feel a sense of duty to safeguard pieces that tell the story of a particular time, place, or movement. These are the pieces that become timeless, resonating with people across generations. Collectors who focus on cultural relevance aren’t just collecting for themselves—they’re contributing to the story of humanity, helping preserve its legacy through art.
Wrapping It Up: The Art of Collecting
Collecting art is like falling in love, really. You find pieces that speak to you, challenge you, and stay with you long after you’ve seen them. For top collectors, each new piece is a reflection of their personal journey, values, and curiosity. So next time you’re drawn to a piece of art, ask yourself: Does it move you? Does it make you think? Does it tell a story worth keeping? Because, at the end of the day, the best collections aren’t just about beauty—they’re about connection, meaning, and a glimpse into the collector’s soul.