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How to Build a Vintage Art Collection with Bliss Marketplace

Written by: Faith O'Mara


Vintage signed original paintings of two children displayed on a table with maps.
A unique pair of vintage original paintings

How to Build a Vintage Art Collection with Bliss Marketplace


There is something truly special about vintage artwork. And what better way to appreciate art than by beginning your own collection! Curating a vintage art collection is an exhilarating endeavor that demands patience and a discerning eye for works that match your preferred style. There are many kinds of art you can collect for a gallery wall or slowly build up for your personal collection. We've narrowed down some key steps to help guide you through the process.


Three yellow lemons and a cut lemon half rest on a white cloth against a deep blue background, conveying a serene, classic still life painting.
A beautiful classic still life painting featuring lemons on a cloth

Explore and Concentrate on Your Interests


Before diving into the world of vintage art, ask yourself what types of art you love. Do you prefer abstract paintings, still life, portraits, landscapes, or vintage photography? Maybe you love the beach and want to transform your living room wall into a massive collection of various beach scenes. Or maybe you want to decorate your bedroom with different original portraits. Concentrating on the type of art you wish to collect will assist in narrowing your choices. Decide if you are drawn to paintings, sculptures, prints, or photography. It may help to narrow down and focus on a particular era such as the Renaissance period, the 19th century, or the vibrant mid-20th century. You can also narrow it down by specific styles like Art Nouveau or Impressionism. The most important factor is to collect what speaks to you. Art collections should reflect your taste, so trust your instincts when selecting pieces.



A small ornate framed painting of a rugged coastline hangs on a wooden wall.
A beautiful framed beach scene painting
A large wooden framed original painting of a sailing ship at sea with a lighthouse on a hill in the background.
A large framed original ship sailing at sea painting

Start Small and Personal


I find that art can consist of small or ordinary things, but placing them in a frame can transform them into something truly special. You can showcase personal items in your home to evoke memories of loved ones or shared experiences. Maybe you have a ticket stub from an amazing concert or a special keepsake from a hike. Whatever it is, consider transforming small and simple items into art. Choose something that narrates your story and brings happiness whenever you see it. When you're thrifting, shopping at a local vintage or antique store, or visiting an antique fair, be sure to check out the art they have available! They often have a wide selection of paintings.


Ornate gold framed art with angels, a cherub, and a guitarist in a rustic setting.
Vintage ornate gold framed cherub art prints

Learn About Art History


Gaining an understanding of various art movements and their historical importance will assist you in making more informed choices when buying artwork. Each art movement, from the Renaissance to Impressionism, and from Modernism to Contemporary art, encompasses distinct philosophies, techniques, and cultural contexts that influenced the creations of that period. Exploring these movements provides insight into the artists' motivations, societal influences, and the progression of artistic expression over time. Examine the works of notable artists from the era that interests you. To enhance your comprehension, it is advantageous to study the works of prominent artists from the specific period you find intriguing. Visiting museums can greatly enrich this exploration. Reading art history books is another effective method to broaden your knowledge.


Painting called "The Death of Socrates" features a group of men in ancient attire gathered around an elder who is pointing up while holding a cup. Dim stone interior, somber mood.
Image of "The Death of Socrates" by Jacques-Louis David 1787

Ancient Roman paintings in a museum on red walls depict horse scenes, set in a stone room. Geometric patterned mosaic floor adds contrast.
A museum of ancient Roman artwork

Start Building Your Collection


You can diversify your collection by thoughtfully incorporating a wide array of artists, styles, and periods into your repertoire. This approach provides you with a broader spectrum of options to choose from. By embracing this diversity, you open yourself up to the possibility of discovering unique pieces that resonate with you on various levels, whether emotionally, intellectually, or visually. Diversifying your collection can also increase the potential value of your artwork over time. Art is often seen as an investment, and pieces that reflect significant movements, such as Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, or Surrealism, tend to appreciate in value as they become rarer and more sought after. When selecting pieces for your collection, it is beneficial to look for works that represent milestones in art history, as these are typically more likely to gain recognition and value in the future.


In addition to the selection process, it is crucial to consider the preservation and care of vintage artwork, as these pieces often require meticulous attention to maintain their condition over the years. Proper care entails storing your artwork in temperature-controlled environments, which helps to prevent damage caused by fluctuations in humidity and temperature. Exposure to direct sunlight can lead to fading and deterioration, so it is essential to keep your pieces out of harsh light whenever possible.



Still life painting of a glass pitcher with red wine, two apples, and a loaf of bread on a white cloth against a dark background.
A classic example of Still Life art

Framed original landscape paintings, hanging pendant lamps, and a vintage portrait hang on a wall. A small blue side table holds trinkets and earrings.
Vintage framed original landscape paintings

Seize the Opportunity for Vintage Original Art


Unique original artwork adds a distinctive touch to any room, transforming the ambiance and character of the space significantly. Each piece of art tells a story, encapsulating the emotions, thoughts, and experiences of the artist, which can resonate with those who view it. Vintage original pieces often increase in value over time and may become quite valuable as they become more sought after due to their rarity or the historical context in which they were created. A diverse collection of original art can be elegantly showcased in various ways, such as a carefully curated gallery wall that can feature a mix of different styles, creating a dynamic visual experience that reflects your personal taste and artistic preferences. Alternatively, original pieces can be thoughtfully distributed across various rooms in your home, ensuring that each space is imbued with creativity and inspiration. Embracing unique original artwork in your home is not just about decoration; it is about creating an environment that inspires and reflects who you are.



A twisted rope style wooden-framed painting of mushrooms and ferns. Background shows a packed vintage booth with various decorative items.
A unique framed vintage mushroom print

Framed tapestry of red and yellow tulips in a vase. Surrounded by floral fabric, mugs, a bright orange candle, and ornate candlestick.
A vintage framed needlepoint can add texture and contrast to your art collection

Enjoy The Process


Art collecting is about more than investment—it’s about passion. Take pleasure in living with the artwork and sharing it with others. By following these steps, you can gradually build a meaningful vintage art collection that reflects your taste and potentially grows in value over time. Each piece you add will tell a unique story, both historically and personally. Building a vintage art collection is a beautiful blend of passion, patience, and ever-growing knowledge. As you grow your collection over time, don't forget to enjoy the journey and the wonderful stories behind each piece.

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