Pointers on Collecting

There are two basic approaches to collecting art:
With your eyes--relying on your own instincts and judgment, and with your ears-- relying on the advice of a few carefully selected dealers. Either approach is a legitimate one. Most successful collectors employ a combination of the two. The Best collector is an informed collector. Throughout a collector's career, reading and constantly looking at art is essential in building an exceptional collection.
Most people feel more comfortable going slowly at first.
   A. Spend time learning about art.
   B. Familiarize yourself with art terms, media and techniques.
(From an article in Comprehensive Guide To African American Art: Getting Started by Halima Taha)

Collecting Tips
by Bob Homes

In collecting African American Art, I generally look for works that document particular movements of trends in art or that document different historical periods. This selection leads to a varied collection that includes both race and race less art.
To exhibit one or two pieces does not begin to tell a story. But a story or movement begins to evolve when scores or hundreds of works are exhibited. Art, after all, is visual literature and oftentimes speaks more powerfully and with greater clarity and articulation than the best drama.
While the circumstance (of being under-recognized) is unfortunate, perhaps for the black artist, the logical result of it all is that true genius is being overlooked and is available for purchase if you but only follow your own drummer, trust your confidence and are willing to put your money on the line.
It is no longer enough to buy a work by an artist who happens to "draw well"--that is pedestrian and old hat. Technical ability is a given criterion. The designation "fine art" deserves to be reserved for works by artists with imagination, vision and innovation.
(From an article in Black Arts Quarterly,v.1,n.1)