“I had no idea what I liked”: Collector stories from Melbourne
Ahead of our Melbourne fair, we met two collectors at very different stages of their art-buying journey.
Paige Spurrell
Wednesday 1 July, 2026
Whether you’re a first time art buyer or seasoned collector, buying art can sometimes feel like a daunting experience. Ahead of Affordable Art Fair Melbourne, we visited the homes of two collectors, who are at very different stages of the art-buying journey.
Sue has spent years building a collection that reflects her evolving tastes and the artists she has discovered along the way. Meanwhile, Rose is at the beginning of her collecting journey, learning to trust her instincts and discovering the joy that original art can bring to the home.
While both their experiences are different, their belief is the same: collecting art isn’t about being an expert – it’s about finding work that speaks to you. And with thousands of original artworks from over 70 galleries under one roof, Affordable Art Fair Melbourne makes that discovery easier than ever.
Meet Sue
Stepping into Sue’s Queenscliff home feels like wandering through a thoughtfully curated gallery space. Each artwork inhabits its own space, accentuated by the abundance of natural light. With pieces nestled in unexpected corners, there are so many moments of discovery throughout the home.
Sue’s art collection has been built over many years, but Sue is quick to point out that every collector’s journey starts with that initial piece. Her own journey began in New South Wales, where she bought her first work by Gloria Petyarre after visiting an exhibition.
“I just fell in love with her artwork, understanding the story behind the work made me feel connected and confident to purchase it”.
That first purchase sparked a lifelong passion. Since then, Sue has continued to build her collection by developing relationships with galleries she trusts, including Salt Contemporary Art, and regular visits to art fairs where she discovers new artists, explores different styles and often encounters works she never expected to fall in love with. Her advice for art buying is simple: trust your gut.
“Listen to your heart and go with your instincts, because you need to live with the artwork you purchase, so it should mean something to you”.
Her intuitive process of collecting extends to displaying art. Sue encourages budding art collectors to get creative about how they display their pieces. One of her favourite examples is an artwork displayed in her bathroom, a reminder that original art can elevate every corner of the home.
“When I get a new piece, I might shuffle around some other pieces to make space for it, which makes my home eclectic but cohesive at the same time”.
For those considering their first piece, Sue encourages first – time buyers to ask questions, visit galleries, and take advantage of events such as Affordable Art Fair Melbourne.
“Take the opportunity to meet galleries and artists, who love to chat about art and can answer any questions you have”.
Meet Rose
Rose is exactly who many of our visitors see themselves in – someone who loves art, wants to make their home feel more personal, but doesn’t necessarily know where to start. Rose knew she wanted to add some colour to her home in Point Lonsdale, but the thought of buying original art felt overwhelming.
“I had no idea how to hang paintings, where to put them, or what I liked”.
Like many new collectors, Rose discovered that confidence comes from conversations with the experts. Working with Fiona from Salt Contemporary Art helped demystify the art buying process and gave her permission to trust her instincts.
“I had an idea that I liked landscapes, and when I started looking around the gallery, I was immediately drawn to one painting. I was attracted to the blue colours, the ships and the boats and immediately put it aside because I kept going back to it”.
That moment taught Rose the importance of trusting your instincts when buying art. Since bringing original art into her home, she’s noticed just how much it has elevated her space.
“Our home was already comfortable and lovely, but the art has added that extra finesse to it. It makes the most of the good lighting and walls, and has brought the house to life”.
For anyone looking to purchase their first piece of art, Rose has one piece of advice.
“Don’t hesitate, if you’re thinking about it – buy it”.
Rose encourages budding art collectors to speak to the experts. They can help suggest pieces that might compliment your space, and can provide you with information on the artwork and the artist.
Every collection starts somewhere
Whether you’re beginning your collection like Rose or adding to an established collection like Sue, every art-buying journey starts with a single piece.
One of the many galleries to discover is Salt Contemporary, housed in a beautifully restored former haberdashery, where gallery director Fiona has been helping collectors discover and live with contemporary Australian art. The gallery has also exhibited at every Affordable Art Fair Australia since the fair launched in Melbourne in 2019.
Affordable Art Fair in Melbourne brings together over 70 galleries and thousands of original artworks, giving visitors the chance to discover artists they love, ask questions, compare styles and find something that suits their taste, space, and budget.
You don’t need to know exactly what you’re looking for. You just need to start looking.
Join us from 27 – 30 August at the Royal Exhibition Building and discover the artwork that could become the first piece in your collection – or your next favourite addition.
Author