Everything You Need To Know About Collecting Art

For two years, the world was held hostage by a pandemic, one that snuck in like a thief in the night - effectively robbing us of our freedom, and our health security. This lead many of us to stay in our homes, becoming permanent fixtures in our living rooms - as we converted them into offices. It forced many of us to review our homes, the way we decorated them - and the choices that accompany it. Cabin fever continues to evolve, and even homebodies are ready to fly the coop. 

Those familiar old walls that you stare at every day need to be livened up. What better way to add some much-needed panache to your surroundings than with some art?

If you're concerned that you won't be able to commit to a specific piece or that you'll become bored after a while, don't be. 

It's for this reason that art is rented.

Why should you consider renting art?

Renting art is an excellent alternative to owning art - and it is gaining popularity as we enter the post-pandemic world.  Art renting, as the name implies, allows you to rent artwork such as paintings, pictures, and other such items for a certain period of time. To lease the artwork for a set amount of time, an amendable agreement is signed. It's a tempting offer for businesses, hubs, homes, and other places where the interiors are continuously changing. As a result, art leasing is a cost-effective and practical choice.

New trends are bound to emerge with each generation of up-and-comers. The prevalence of renting is one of today's emerging trends. Renting, which was formerly only done out of need, is now fashionable. Possession is a thing of the past in a number of consumer businesses  - and homes.  Renting is the way to go. Previously, rentals were only connected with real estate and high-end one-time-use gowns and tuxedos. The rental industry now includes practically anything you can think of, including everyday apparel, equipment, furniture, and art.

Renting artwork is a rising trend, and you should take advantage of it. 

• Freedom: You get to decide what is featured on your walls - and for how long. 
• Change: Desiring change is natural - every now and then, we need a break from the routing. 
• Flexibility: You choose the piece - and the term.
• Cash-flow: Decorate your home without harming your budget.

What does renting mean for the seasoned collector?

We’re part of a leasing generation. With the cost of living increasing daily, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for younger generations to enjoy purchasing art, homes - or cars. While leasing is a term generally associated with housing, we live in a shared economy, and there is no denying the need to lease art is increasing. 

The preconceptions surrounding collecting art are well-known: many outside the sector perceive the market as obscure and mysterious, and it can be difficult to acquire an artwork that will rise in value in the future. What does the rise of art rental entail for potential collectors or those already involved in the art market in this context?

The increasing accessibility to art will have a knock-on impact, increasing the number of people investing in and collecting art. In the long run, this means that art leasing will encourage more development in the art market. Auction houses and galleries have historically been the market guardians, providing the best path to a prosperous career for artists. They continue to have enormous power, but the tide is turning with the advent of firms targeted at attracting new audiences.

It's difficult to say whether this flood of new rental clients will alter collector prices, but it does create more demand in the art market, more artists working, and more potential options for people looking to buy art. Matching corporate funds with artists is critical to the market's long-term viability.

Renting art online

Every day, society becomes increasingly virtual, especially considering the current status of the economy. This means that consumerism is transitioning to an online market, and while art buying is still primarily done in person, the art industry has begun to adapt to the internet shopping era.

According to Forbes, almost 25% of 20 to 30-year-olds bought their first piece of art online. The biggest problem these buyers had was that they couldn't personally view the work before buying it. Many people were put off from making the final payment because of this stumbling block. This is where art rental comes in.

Consumers can rent art for a cheaper price in order to try it out in their own homes or office. This alleviates the worry of online purchasers who are unable to do a physical quality assessment and decreases the risk of making impulse purchases that are later regretted. That's one of the most appealing aspects of renting art. You can easily return your rental if you are dissatisfied with it.

At smart-collectors, we pride ourselves on transparency - and believe in giving our collectors the opportunity to enjoy art, without having to purchase upfront. From 35 € each month, you can immerse yourself in art in a unique and flexible way. You get to decide how long you want to keep the artwork, and whether you return - or buy it once the term ends.  Our selection is constantly growing. New artists and artworks are introduced on a regular basis. Become a smart-collector by continually spotting new artworks for your collection! 

Renting art is the smart way to becoming a collector - and you can do it too!

You can't go wrong with renting art, whether you're an internet shopper, need time to commit, or simply need a constant refresh. You don't have to agonize about whether or not to buy that piece of art you've always wanted. Renting art provides the happy medium you require before making a final purchase choice.

What are you waiting for?