How to Collect: Practical Insights for Collecting Art from Africa

Embarking on the journey of collecting art is a thrilling adventure, especially when exploring the dazzling world of Contemporary African Art. Imagine finding pieces like 'The Rise and Fall of Man’ by Chike Emembo, a masterpiece that tells the powerful story of the society's belief system and brings Contemporary Africa's power into your home.

As we have explored the first steps in discovering and nurturing African artists in our previous discussion of How to Collect Contemporary Art from Africa: An Introduction, let's now dive into the practical aspects of collecting art, focusing on longevity, placement, and insurance.

The Rise and Fall of Man, Mixed Media, Chike Emembo 

Proper Placement: The Key to Longevity and Aesthetic Appeal

Imagine you've just acquired a watercolor from a contemporary Nigerian artist. You want to ensure it remains as delicate as on the day you brought it home. Proper placement of your artwork is crucial for both aesthetic appeal and preservation. Different types of paintings require specific considerations to ensure their longevity and visual impact. For instance, watercolors are very light-sensitive and need particular locations to enjoy their intricate refinement over time. Always avoid direct sunlight.

Here’s a summary of light sensitivity based on painting type:

Personal tip: I like to position floor or table lamps in the living or bedroom to cast direct or – most favourably – indirect light on my artwork, adding ambiance and focus.

To achieve optimal viewing, hang your artwork at eye level, typically placing the center about 150 cm from the floor. When arranging multiple pieces, consider the overall composition of your space to create a cohesive and balanced display with your furniture and various room accessories. Using an accent color creates visual harmony by repeating a color throughout a space or artwork.

Visionary Lady, Acrylic, KON-T  

Insurance: Safeguarding Your Investment

As you build your art collection, it's important to remember that protecting your artwork against unforeseen circumstances like theft, damage, or loss is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Art insurance provides the security and peace of mind that your collection is safe, no matter what happens.

When selecting an art insurance policy, it's crucial to choose a reputable provider with expertise in insuring art collections. Keep meticulous records of your artwork, including purchase receipts and certificates of authenticity delivered by the artist or a recognized art seller. These documents are vital for filing insurance claims and verifying the value of your collection in case you decide to sell your artwork. Remember, the more detailed your records, the smoother the insurance process will be.

From right to left: Together as One (1), Together as One (2), Acrylic  KON-T, Sarah, Mixed Media, Chike Emembo

Your Path Forward

Proper placement, authentication, and  insurance are fundamental to preserving and enhancing the value of your collection. Focusing on these aspects allows you to enjoy your artwork with confidence and peace of mind. As you delve deeper into Contemporary African Art, let these practical insights guide you in building a collection that truly reflects your passion and appreciation for Contemporary Africa's powerful Culture. 

Interested in starting or expanding your Contemporary African Art collection? Don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized advice sarah@unx-art.net