What my 30+ years in the Art Business has taught me about Art Collectors by Miabo Enyadike

 

What my 30+ years in the Art Business has taught me about Art Collectors

Explore the intriguing choices of art collectors through a 30+ year journey in the art world. Discover how bold, abstract pieces find their way into collections and become conversation starters.

What Goes on in the Minds of Art Collectors: Insights from 30+ Years in the Art Business

I always wonder what goes on in the minds of collectors, having been in this art business for over 30 years. I am often baffled, to say the least, about their choice of art to collect. One particular experience stands out vividly. I once had an artwork that stayed in my studio for 15 years. Every time I saw it, I couldn’t understand why no one had collected it or even inquired about it. It was an ink piece featuring my signature floral art. The lack of interest was a bit distressing. I had shown it in several exhibitions and written countless brief blogs about it, but still, no sale.

Then, fast forward to 2021. A first-time collector and a friend of mine had just purchased a new house and wanted original art. She asked me to send photos of my floral art. I sent her several batches of photos, but none resonated with her interior. Reluctantly, I sent her the floral painting that had sat in my studio for years. To my greatest surprise, she emailed me back, saying the bold orange in the painting matched her rug, and she purchased it. This single purchase encouraged her to buy a few more pieces as she gradually furnished her house. It goes to show that art collectors love what they love and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Understanding the Choices of Art Collectors

My art is abstract, featuring really bold and striking colors. I always say to collectors, "I create jealous art," meaning art that wants to be the center of attention and hates competition. It might sound strange, but it is what it is. Over the years, certain collector friends of mine have come to appreciate the standout features of my art in their collections. The feedback is often the same: my pieces evoke pleasant conversations and tell unique stories from my heart. This is the true essence of art—connecting deeply with those who see it.

Lessons from 30+ Years in the Art World

Patience Pays Off: An artwork that doesn’t sell immediately may find its perfect collector years later. Collectors Know Their Taste: Even if a piece doesn’t resonate with everyone, it will speak to the right person at the right time. Art Tells Stories: Collectors value the story and emotion behind a piece, making it more than just a decoration. Bold Art Makes a Statement: Pieces with bold colors and abstract designs often become the centerpiece of a collection or a room.

Final Thoughts

Art collectors have a unique eye and an emotional connection to the pieces they choose. For artists, it’s essential to trust the process and believe that every artwork will eventually find its home. My journey in the art business has taught me to appreciate these moments and the collectors who value my creations. If you’re a collector looking for bold, abstract, and story-rich art, visit www.artmiabo.com blog posts. Let’s find the perfect piece that resonates with you.

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Miabo Enyadike