10 steps to discover the Picassos of the future
Oct 19, 2025Whether it’s your very first piece or your fiftieth, buying art always carries a little thrill — and a little uncertainty. That moment of wondering:
Is this the best art work for me? Is this the right decision? Will I still cherish it years from now?
One day a certain artist is the talk of the town, the next day it’s someone else making the buzz. Sometimes we get swept up in what’s hot in our local bubble, other times it’s the international stars everyone is chasing. In the middle of it all, it can feel tricky to know what really matters when buying art.
Over the years, working with new and experienced collectors, I’ve noticed the same pitfalls come up again and again. These 10 principles are the ones I return to when advising clients — they tend to help to stay on track! 👇
Falling in love with Jean-Paul Riopelle – few cared about him until pretty much now! © Riopelle / BONO. Photo: The Art Trotter
Start with your heart
Don’t worry about trends or prestige names! Choose works that speak to YOU. Living with art is about connection, and it is a deeply personal experience. But remember – the more you learn about art, the more your taste can change, which brings me to the next point. ⤵️
Take your time
There’s no rush. Explore, compare, and learn before committing. And most importantly, enjoy the process of learning and discovery (with a trusted art advisor by your side).
See as much art as possible
Visit galleries, museums, fairs, and open studios — large or small. Exposure sharpens your eye and gives you confidence.
Build relationships
Get to know the artists and galleries, but be sure to keep learning about the broader context to avoid the risk of bias!
Discovering works by H.M. Queen of Norway behind the closed doors – a table of treasures, usually hidden from view. © Sonja / BONO. Photo: The Art Trotter
Do your homework
Read, research, and stay updated on what excites you. Follow auction results, marketplace reviews, and institutions.
Support the ecosystem
Buy through galleries or directly from artists — it sustains the cultural ecosystem that makes art thrive. And remember: an ethical advisor will always ensure you buy transparently and directly from the seller.
Think long-term
Don’t approach your first purchases as an investment to flip. Yet, be sure to spot the real talent!
The truth is: while art may grow in value, it is not the most liquid asset. It may take several decades before it grows in value. Even if you buy something today from the primary market for 20k (meaning the work has never been sold before), you are not guaranteed the same selling price if you wish to sell it two days later!
So when you buy, think about this: Do I still believe in it if it is worth zero literally tomorrow?
Spotting an iconic work by Anna-Eva Bergman. A modern treasure that took over 60 years to be fully discovered! In these abstract forms, can you see the northern sky, sea and snowy landscape?
© Bergman / BONO. Photo: The Art Trotter
Set your own rules and boundaries
Budget, pace, and focus matter. It’s easy to get caught up in excitement. That is why your own rules and limits help keep the process of collecting joyful. :)
Embrace the emerging
You don’t need to start with blockbuster names. Supporting younger or lesser-known artists can be deeply rewarding. But then again, general art knowledge and professional guidance help you spot the real talent!
Remember the bigger picture
Collecting is not just about ownership. When you buy a work of art, you are supporting the artist, the idea, and the ecosystem!
But also – let the art you choose become part of your story: creating a personal universe that reflects your values, passions, and sense of beauty.
Inspired by Picasso — could this boy one day be the next great master? Spending time with art is how we train the eye to recognize the Picassos of the future.
© Picasso / BONO. Photo: The Art Trotter
Building an art collection can become one of the most rewarding adventures of your life. 😍
Collecting is as much about emotion as it is about knowledge.
My role as an advisor is to help bridge those two — making sure every choice is both meaningful and informed.
PS. In my 1:1 art advisory program, I will guide you to:
- Learn how to look at and understand art – from major art history concepts to contemporary trends
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Discover how to navigate the market with clarity and confidence
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Learn to spot talent and assess value — not just in terms of price, but in meaning, quality, and long-term significance
- Evaluate your current collection and define a clear vision for it
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Get access to and connect with artists and galleries you might not find yourself
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Build a collection that feels right for you — one that brings joy now, and becomes a legacy for the future
If you’re interested, send me an email to [email protected] with a short application: an introduction of yourself and your collector engagement, along with your goals and wishes – and we take the conversation from there!
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