Art increases in value at an average of 18% a year. Here are some basics tips on starting your art investment portfolio.

Educate yourself.

The best place to start is a museum. This is a great public resource, and most entrance to museums is free or low cost. Larger museums often have excellent public programming that include free gallery lectures, classes, and discussions with curators. The tour guides, teachers, and curators will answer your questions, so ask away.

Art history classes are another way to brush up the topic. A survey class will cover many different genres and is good for the novice. Once you have determined a genre you like, take a class that focuses solely on that genre.

Remember: it is important to know about all art – even the art you don’t like.

Get to know local artists.

Regional markets are a wonderful resource. Look for artist colonies, regional art markets, and artists with excellent credentials that haven’t yet debuted on the national level. Vacations are a great time to visit other regional markets. Research the area before the trip.

Beware of bargains.

Buy the best of what you can afford. Chose the highest quality in your price range that interest you. Take note of wear and tear. There should be little to no wear and tear. If something is damaged or in poor condition, its not a bargain.

Embrace changes in art.

Tastes change over time. This will be reflected in your collection. Varied art lends fluidity to the collection. Art purchased at age 25 will send a different message at age 50. Allow changes and variations to happen naturally.