There’s something magical about buying art. It’s not like picking up a cushion or a new lamp, it’s about finding a piece that speaks to you and sparks a feeling every time you walk past it.
I’ve seen it happen countless times at Affordable Art Fair: someone stops in front of a painting, their face softens, and they say, “This one just feels like me.” That’s the moment I live for.
But for many people, the idea of buying art can feel intimidating. What if I don’t know enough? What if I make the wrong choice? The truth is, you don’t need to be an expert to collect art, you just need curiosity, a little guidance, and the confidence to follow your instincts.
Here are my top tips to help you discover that perfect piece, whether it’s your first purchase or one of many. Plus, a few simple questions you can ask a gallerist to help you along the way.
Think about how it feels in your space
Art isn’t just decoration; it sets the tone of a room. So, before you buy, try to picture where the piece might live. Is it a calming abstract for your bedroom, or something vibrant and bold to brighten the living room?
For many of us, home is the place we invest most of our time and care. Choosing art that creates the right feeling in your space means it will keep giving back to you, every single day.
Set a budget that excites you, not stresses you
Before you start exploring galleries it’s important to consider your budget. This will help turn a potentially overwhelming experience into one that is seamless and exciting. It will also make you feel more confident in your decision making.
At Affordable Art Fair there truly is something for everyone. We have walls dedicated to artworks under $1000, through to larger statement pieces. Many galleries also offer instalments, which means that special piece you thought was out of reach might be more accessible than you imagined.
Immerse yourself in the experience
When visiting an art fair, it can be worthwhile doing a lap of the fair first to establish what style of artwork is resonating with you most strongly. I often liken visiting an art fair to a treasure hunt. On one hand, the more you look, the better your chances of stumbling across the unexpected piece that feels like it was waiting just for you. On the other, if you see an artwork that you immediately love and know you can’t live without, go for it before someone else snaps it up.
Discover the joy of supporting emerging artists
Some of the most exciting finds come from artists at the very start of their careers. Their work often feels fresh and unique, and by buying from them you’re helping an artist continue to create.
At the Fair we highlight this through our Discover: Young Talent program, which spotlights emerging artists under 35. It’s one of my favourite areas because the sense of discovery is palpable. Whether emerging or established, the most important thing is that the piece resonates with you.
Take a moment to think
Art is designed to spark emotions, and that’s the joy of it. But it’s also something that will live with you for a lifetime and may even be passed down to your loved ones, too. So, when you find a piece you love, pause, have a coffee, chat with a friend, walk around the gallery again. If you’re still thinking about it, that’s a very good sign.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
One of the best parts of buying art is the conversation that comes with it. Gallerists love sharing the stories behind their artists, and those stories become part of the magic you take home.
Here are a few thoughtful questions you can ask and why they matter:
Q. What inspired this work?
This is your window into the artist’s world. Often, their inspiration adds a whole new dimension to how you experience the piece, whether it was sparked by a memory, a place, or even a moment of pure imagination. That story becomes part of what you bring home.
Q. Can you tell me about the artist?
Art is as much about people as it is about the work itself. Hearing about an artist’s journey, their creative quirks, or even the challenges they’ve overcome helps you feel more connected to their work. It also means that when friends or family ask about the piece, you’ll have a story ready to share.
Q. What materials or techniques were used?
Asking about an artist’s materials or methods opens a whole new appreciation for the work. You’ll learn about the layers of craft and care that went into creating it. These details not only deepen your understanding but also give you a story to share when guests admire the piece in your home.
Q. Where would you hang this piece?
Gallerists have a great eye for how art interacts with a space. They can suggest whether a piece is best placed as a statement in the living room, a soothing addition to a bedroom, or a conversation starter in a hallway. Bringing along a photo of your wall can make their advice even more practical.
Q. Is this artist popular?
This isn’t about chasing investment, but about context. Knowing an artist is starting to gain recognition makes your purchase feel even more special because you are part of their story. And if their career blossoms, it’s a lovely bonus to know you collected them early.
With curiosity and the right questions, you’ll find art that not only looks good on your walls but adds depth, character and energy to your everyday life. After all, every artwork has a story, and when you bring it home, it becomes part of yours, too. That’s the real joy of collecting.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to begin, Affordable Art Fair Melbourne returns 29–31 August, before heading to Sydney from 6–9 November 2025. Both Fairs will showcase thousands of artworks from galleries across Australia all under one roof, ready for you to explore.
Georgia Huestis is Affordable Art Fair Melbourne’s Fair Director
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