NEW Julieta Martinez CUBAN FINE ART Original Painting

Top 10 Reasons to Collect Art

by Allison Hill, Directora, Havana Gallery

10. Be true to your tastes. Acknowledge that you like certain types of art regardless of what you think you're supposed to like. When you buy art you really like, seeing your art in your home makes you feel good every day!

9. Artists are strong representatives of their culture and generation. The art that you buy today may be worth more in the future.

8. Many times art is sold at fundraising auctions for charities. By buying art at these events, you can add to your collection and help fund causes you believe in.

7. You can explore other cultures through art collecting. Research artists living in other countries that have special meaning for you.

6. Even on a budget, you can become a great art collector. Try supporting local artists. Explore smaller galleries, auctions, and fine art fairs in your neighborhood.

5. The art you hang in your home expresses who you are -- your taste, heritage, sense of humor, etc, and makes an excellent conversation piece when friends come to visit.

4. Find out everything you can from the gallery about an artist you like, or, when possible, talk to the artist. Since you have to put something on the walls of your home, why not hang art from someone you know and respect?

3. If you buy original art, you are supporting a person's dream. Your purchase encourages an artist to continue working and growing.

2. You can buy original art on any budget. Work by emerging artists, original prints (such as etchings and lithographs) or photographs can be very affordable.

1. Anyone can (and should) be an art collector!