You can collect art

CATCHING: TO BE A COLLECTOR YOU NEED TO BUILD A RELATIONSHIP

- Hein Kaiser

You can spot them a mile away. The dark horn-rimmed glasses, carefully curated polo neck shirts, suede jackets and wardrobes that just border on intellectual fascism, projected with inflated opinions. Those are the ponytail pretenders in the art world. And they can be very offputting to everyday lovers of art for art's sake, for first-time buyers.

Owner of Art Eye gallery in Dainfern, Tyrone Selmon doesn't believe in the fuss. He said the best way to start is to stop trying to buy anything at all.

"Forming a relationship with art is essential," he said.

"I always suggest people don't try to buy anything in the beginning. Visit galleries and see what speaks to you."

Just walk in and look. He said a few months of looking without buying is quite important.

"After that, find a dealer you trust. Build a relationship. A good dealer will come to understand your eye and guide you. It's not about selling. It's about placing the right work with the right person.

"The journey of becoming a collector or even just buying a piece for your home is personal," Selmon said.

"We're all swayed by what other people like. You've got to block that out. Go in with no intention of buying. Just see what catches your eye.