How to Start (and Grow) a Collection of Local Art
Andrea Lamarsaude, Lotus and Sakura, 12x16 in., collage, embroidered flowers, Japanese Yuzen paper, colored pencils, and wax pastels on board.
Collecting art is one of the most rewarding ways to bring beauty into your life while supporting the creative community around you. Whether you’re new to art collecting or looking to grow your collection, focusing on local artists can make your collection feel more personal, meaningful, and connected to your community.
Here are some tips for starting or building your collection of local art:
1. Start With What You Love
Forget about what’s “trending” or what you think will appreciate in value. The best collections are made up of pieces that move you, make you curious, or simply bring you joy. Trust your instincts.
2. Get to Know the Artists
One of the biggest perks of collecting local art is the chance to meet the artists themselves. Attend gallery openings, art fairs, and artist open studio tours. Ask questions about their process, inspirations, and techniques. Building relationships with artists can deepen the connection you feel to the work.
3. Set a Budget and Start Small
Collecting art doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. Many local artists create smaller works, prints, or studies that are more affordable. Setting a budget helps you purchase with confidence and enjoy the process.
4. Mix Established and Emerging Artists
Look for a balance of artists who are well-known in your area and those who are just starting out. Emerging artists often offer exciting, fresh perspectives and more accessible price points.
5. Visit Local Galleries Often
Galleries are one of the best ways to discover new artists and see their work in person. At Art on Main, we love helping collectors—whether first-time buyers or seasoned art lovers—find pieces that fit their style, budget, and vision.
6. Buy the Story, Not Just the Artwork
When you collect local art, you’re collecting a story. Where the artist lives, what inspires them, and how they create all become part of the piece you bring home. That story is something you can cherish and share.
7. Support Artists Beyond the Purchase
Follow artists on social media, recommend their work to friends, and attend their events. The relationships you build will enrich your collection and help sustain the local creative ecosystem.
8. Let Your Collection Evolve
Your tastes will change over time, and that’s a good thing. Each new piece adds depth and tells a chapter in your story as a collector.
At Art on Main, we believe collecting local art is about more than filling walls—it’s about building a connection to the community around you.
Stop by our gallery to see what’s new, chat with us about your interests, or simply enjoy browsing. You never know which piece will speak to you.
Where to find Dallas art events online
Use these calendars and arts outlets to keep up with exhibits, openings, talks, and art festivals around Dallas–Fort Worth:
Go See DFW – a free online calendar, managed by The Dallas Morning News and KERA, that lists public events in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
D Magazine – Weekly “Things To Do” guide and arts & entertainment section.
CultureMap Dallas – broad event calendar with an Arts + Culture focus.
Glasstire (DFW region) – Texas‑wide contemporary art news with a dedicated DFW events page. Great for gallery shows and openings.
VisitDallas – Official city events calendar; includes performing and visual arts listings.
Dallas Arts District – Centralized events across museums and venues in the district.
Arts and Culture Texas Magazine - Texas-based magazine dedicated to the visual and performing arts. It focuses on contemporary art and its impact on life in Texas. The magazine features articles, artist interviews, reviews, and more, both in print and online. Stop by Art on Main to pick up a free copy of the print version.
You can visit the Art on Main events calendar at www.artonmaindallas.com/calendar
And hyper local in our neighborhood:
Advocate Dallas Lakewood - events
East Dallas Arts District
Visit East Dallas
Cover image by local Dallas artist Andrea Lamarsaude, Lotus and Sakura, 12x16 in., collage, embroidered flowers, Japanese Yuzen paper, colored pencils, and wax pastels on board.
