10 Steps of an Emerging Art Collector - Week 7 Accompany a Creative

So far, there's been a lot of art to look at, money to set aside to purchase art, friends to look at art with, a genre to narrow down and adopting an artist. A lot of ground has been covered in The 10 Steps of an Emerging Art Collector but it has mostly been virtual territory. Now is the time to see the light of day. For step 7 you are going to -

Accompany a Creative

Let's talk about what that means.

1 Pick a Creative

"Creative" as in a noun, meaning someone who is creative. Your Creative doesn't have to be an artist though they can be. But it needs to be someone who has an imaginative outlook, is an original thinker and has stimulating ideas. (It doesn't hurt if they are a good conversationalist too.) A "Creative" is a self definition not a title given by anyone else, though people tend to recognize it in others. You probably know people who you consider "creative" (maybe even yourself) that's who I am talking about. 

Pick someone (or a couple of someones) like that who you'd like to invite to go somewhere with you. Let them know you are taking them for their creative nature and that you want them to share their thoughts at a particular art institution. 

2 Pick a Place

You'll take your Creative to an art establishment that is non-commercial. It is to be a learning, exploring art outing without the pressure of sales people, gallery owners or someone who's primary need is to make money. If there is an art venue that has the specific genre you are interested in that would be a bonus. Here is a list of ideas of places to look for -

• museums
• university galleries
• graduate BFA shows
• library collections
• traveling exhibitions
• art groups

Graduate BFA shows usually run on a school calendar year. Larger universities and libraries will have collections available to see. There are art groups that have membership fees but have access to private collections and resources. In museums they have docents (a knowledgeable art guide) who will give commentary through the course of the exhibit. Look for a local place.

3 Pick Things Apart

After a tour go back through without the docent. Really look at the art. Look at the level of skill involved. Ask what it means to you. Let the Creative share any specific insights they have of art principles or theory. Have the Creative ask you questions to bring out your thoughts. Make observations. Make critiques. Make it personal. 

Remember to record it all in your Art Journal.

4 Pick up the Tab

Offer lunch as a return kindness to your Creative.

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Date Night Idea: Now that you have gone to an interesting art venue and know something about it go back with a date and razzle-dazzle them with your new knowledge. Then take them to the museum cafe or like eatery.