The Art of Collecting: A Personal Journey

Exploring the Emotional Connection to Art

One of my favorite things to do is buy art, even though I don't do it very often. For me, paintings and prints bring a sense of personality, style, and energy to my home, which I'll admit is unsurprisingly eclectic!

A Diverse Collection

I love a bit of everything, from vintage posters to impasto-style paintings. Simple watercolors, framed textile pieces, photography, charcoal studies, lino prints, and glasswork all catch my eye. Nothing is off-limits for me when it comes to collecting art, which got me wondering about the collector's journey.

The Emotional Experience of Buying Art

Buying a painting is never just a transaction. It’s an emotional experience, a conversation between you and the artwork. When you choose to bring a piece into your home, it’s because something about it speaks to you — a color, a shape, or a feeling that resonates deep within.

That First Spark

It often starts with a spark. You might pause at a brushstroke or be captivated by a color palette. You feel a subtle pull and recognize that a piece has your attention, even if you can’t yet explain why. That initial attraction is instinctive. It’s the heart responding before the mind catches up.

A Sense of Connection

As you spend more time with a painting, the connection deepens. You see echoes of your own experiences: a memory of a landscape, a sense of calm, or a quiet joy. Art reflects something of ourselves back to us in ways that words rarely can. This connection transforms a painting from mere decoration into something deeply personal.

Expression Without Words

Bringing art into your life is also an act of expression. A painting becomes a way of saying something about who you are, even silently: your tastes, your moods, and the emotions you carry. It’s a language beyond language — one that invites reflection and resonates quietly in the spaces we inhabit.

The Lasting Emotion

The beauty of owning art lies in its enduring presence. Each glance can spark curiosity, comfort, or inspiration. Over time, it becomes woven into the rhythms of your life — a companion in moments of stillness, a reminder of the feelings you value most.

At the heart of buying art is connection. The paintings we choose are the ones that speak to us, that hold a fragment of our own experience, and that quietly transform the spaces we live in. That’s the magic — the reason we fall in love with a painting is not just for what it looks like, but for how it makes us feel.

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Blog Catch Up

I'm juggling various concepts as I work on my current pieces, which are all in a kind of limbo stage. Creating 'flat space' is something I've been thinking more and more about, so I did a bit of research for my latest blog post.

My current series of landscapes is wandering between various styles of abstract landscape painting at the moment, seemingly with no fixed abode! This blog post takes a look at various commonalities between styles of nature-inspired abstract landscape painting.

The Journey of an Artist

Every artist's journey is unique. It can be filled with challenges and triumphs. Understanding this journey can enhance your appreciation for the art you collect. Each piece tells a story, not just of the artist but also of the viewer.

Finding Your Style

As you explore art, consider what resonates with you. Do you prefer bold colors or subtle tones? Are you drawn to abstract forms or realistic representations? Finding your style is part of the joy of collecting. It allows you to curate a space that reflects your personality.

The Role of Art in Home Decor

Art plays a significant role in home decor. It can transform a space, making it feel more inviting and personal. When you choose art for your home, think about how it complements your existing decor. The right piece can tie a room together beautifully.

Art as a Conversation Starter

Art can spark conversations. When guests visit your home, they may ask about the pieces on your walls. This gives you the opportunity to share your thoughts and feelings about the art. It can lead to deeper discussions about creativity, inspiration, and personal experiences.

Supporting Local Artists

By purchasing art, you support local artists and their communities. This connection can enrich your experience as a collector. You become part of a larger narrative, contributing to the vibrancy of the local art scene.

Art Exhibition Opening

I'm excited to be showing work in this new exhibition at Noosa Art Gallery along with a group of local artists. Join us for the opening this weekend if you can — all are welcome!

Libby Derham - Saren Dobkins

Andrew Hillhouse - Helen Lawson

Tam Le Art - Trevor Purvis

Karen Rogers - Suellen Tomkins

Jasmine Veronique - Tania Vrancic

Charlotte Wensley - Kurun Warun

Saturday 22nd November from 6 PM

100 Rene Street, Noosaville

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Manyung Gallery Christmas Event

Manyung Gallery's Christmas Event at their Art & Design space in Mornington is on again this weekend. You can find my paintings here and also at their galleries in Sorrento and Flinders over the summer if you find yourself exploring the Mornington Peninsula.

Opening Night

Friday, November 21, 6 PM - 9 PM

Exhibition Dates

Saturday, November 22, 10 AM - 3 PM

Sunday, November 23, 10 AM - 3 PM

Warehouses 6 & 7, 35 Progress St, Mornington

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Art Buyer Quiz and Giveaway

Art Buyer Quiz and Prize Giveaway!

I'd love your thoughts on the things you think about and consider when buying art for your home.

I've put together a short multiple-choice quiz and would be so grateful for your insights! Simply select your answers, and at the end, you can opt in to the draw to win a greeting card pack of 5 of my original designs with envelopes — perfect for gifting or sending to someone special!

The survey link will close on the 30th of November, and the winner of the giveaway will be drawn on the 1st of December.

Thanks so much in advance — I'll keep my fingers crossed for you 😊

Take the 2 minute quiz

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Delivery Dates for Christmas

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Final Thoughts

With the weather and the studio warming up, I'm taking a slightly slower-paced approach to my current work. Maybe it's because I don't have to run around to keep warm! I'm enjoying the difference it's making to my mindset. I hope your creative mindset is matching your studio climate wherever you are!

Have fun with the quiz — thanks so much in advance for sharing your thoughts, and good luck!

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