Starting your own art collection might sound like something reserved for the wealthy or the well-connected, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. At Odd Wall, we believe that affordable art is powerful, personal, and within reach for everyone.
Whether you're decorating your first apartment or just want to add something special to your space, this guide is packed with practical tips to help you build a beginner art collection without breaking the bank.
1. Ditch the elitism: art is for everyone
The traditional art world can feel gatekept with all the expensive galleries, silent auctions, and intimidating jargon. But, as art historian Sarah Thornton notes in her book Seven Days in the Art World, "The contemporary art world is a loose network of overlapping subcultures held together by a belief in art."
At Odd Wall, we've stripped away the pretense to make discovering budget art prints that are original, expressive, and accessible easier than ever.
2. Start with prints
Affordable art prints are the perfect starting point. They're created by the same talented artists who make originals, but at a more accessible price. Our collection features a wide range of styles, from abstract and modern to figurative and bold. What's more? All Odd Wall prints are exclusive to Odd Wall, meaning you won't find them anywhere else. We curate a collection worth investing in.
Art UK’s Chiara Betti emphasizes that prints democratize art, and have done for centuries, making significant works accessible to broader audiences.
Browse our art prints collection to find pieces that match your taste and budget.
3. Buy what you love
Renowned hotelier Jason Pomeranc advises, "Buy with your eyes, not your ears." You don't need to be an expert to collect art, just trust your gut and buy what you love to look at. Whether it's a surreal portrait, graphic typography, or something beautifully weird, your collection should reflect you, not just the latest trends. You want to keep these pieces for life.
4. Think Small (and Build Over Time)
You don’t need a gallery wall overnight. Start with one or two pieces that you truly connect with. Over time, you’ll develop a personal and meaningful collection that tells your story.
Pro tip: a simple frame can elevate even the most budget-friendly print.
5. Support Independent Artists
A 2025 report from the Arts Council England’s Livelihoods of Visual Artists data study showed that 68% of artists work additional jobs to financially sustain themselves, with 20% working 3 or more jobs. Two thirds of artists earned less than GBP£5,000 from their art.
Every purchase on Odd Wall supports real artists. By choosing to collect from independent creators, you're contributing to a more inclusive, diverse art world. Surely that's something worth collecting.
Read more about our mission to democratize art and make it accessible for everyone.
Start Your Collection
Whether you're just getting started or adding your next piece, we’re here to help you collect with confidence. Shop our full selection of affordable art prints and bring home work that speaks to you.
Collecting art shouldn’t be intimidating. It should be exciting, expressive, and uniquely yours.
