Follow your passion, build value

Approaching the world of art can seem, to those who are not yet familiar with it, like a journey reserved for a privileged few, marked by million-dollar auctions, elite galleries, and private collections of difficult access. Yet the truth is that every collector, even the most established, began with a first piece - a simple and instinctive gesture, sparked by a sudden emotion and curiosity. It is from that first, often unplanned, acquisition that a relationship is born, destined to enrich itself over time, transforming into a heritage that is not only economic but also cultural and existential.

I clearly remember the moment I purchased my first artwork: a canvas by Mark Kostabi, which I encountered almost by chance in the hands of a refined Roman collector. It was neither a calculated move nor a strategic choice; rather, it was a kind of lightning strike, a deep and inexplicable call that compelled me to act. I did not know then that that meeting - that artwork - would mark the beginning of a journey that would radically change my life, leading years later to the foundation of Trium Art Gallery and my career as an art advisor.

Art enters our lives quietly, but once it does, it leaves an indelible mark. It begins as a private passion, grows into a form of personal language, and ultimately transforms - for those who recognize its potential - into a true strategic asset. Understanding from the outset this dual nature - emotional and economic - is the key to building a conscious and lasting collection.

Mattia Masciullo
Director & Art Advisor
Trium Art Gallery

How to begin: from emotion to strategy

The choice of your first artwork should be guided, first and foremost, by authentic emotion. It is not merely about investing money, but about investing attention, sensitivity, and vision. An artwork must speak to the viewer, creating a personal connection that transcends its signature or market value. Intuition is a powerful ally: often, a strong emotional bond is the best indication of an acquisition destined to maintain or increase its value over time.

However, alongside instinct, it is essential to develop a rational and methodical approach. Starting to build an art collection means learning to evaluate certain fundamental elements:

• Provenance: Knowing the history of an artwork increases its credibility and value.
• Authenticity: Acquiring only works accompanied by valid certificates is essential.
• The artist's career: Observing exhibitions, collaborations, and publications is crucial.
• Quality and rarity: The more significant an artwork is within the artist’s body of work, the more desirable it becomes.
• Market context: Understanding how the artist is positioned within the global contemporary landscape.

Approaching these parameters, without losing the spontaneity and joy of discovery, is the true art of collecting.

Which artwork to choose to begin?

Many new collectors mistakenly believe that entering the art world requires prohibitive amounts of money. In reality, there are numerous opportunities today to start with accessible investments while maintaining a high standard of quality.

Works on paper, limited editions, and unique pieces by emerging or mid-career artists are excellent starting points: they offer more accessible price points compared to large-scale canvases while maintaining potential for appreciation, and they allow greater flexibility and experimentation within your collection.

For example, it is possible to acquire original limited edition artworks, hand-signed and numbered, by masters such as Mimmo Rotella, Piero Dorazio, Carla Accardi, Joe Tilson, Mario Schifano, Mimmo Paladino, and Sandro Chia — all internationally recognized names that still offer accessible entry points into the market. Alternatively, selecting a unique piece by an artist like Michele Zaza allows collectors to acquire significant examples of contemporary artistic research, combining high artistic quality with future appreciation potential.

These possibilities clearly demonstrate that the first step into the art world can be taken intelligently and strategically, without the need for overwhelming initial investments.

Entrusting oneself to a gallery that performs rigorous curatorial work, such as Trium Art Gallery, allows new collectors to navigate the contemporary art landscape more confidently, selecting works that combine emotional resonance with investment value.

 Mario Schifano, La rotta nordica per la sicurezza, 1997

Carla Accardi, Senza titolo, 2000s

Sandro Chia, Enigma dei volti, 2009

Where to Buy Your First Artwork

Today, artworks can be purchased both through traditional channels - such as physical galleries and art fairs - and through reputable online platforms.
The online market for contemporary art has achieved very high levels of credibility, particularly when supported by certificates of authenticity, guarantees, and personalized advisory services.

At Trium Art Gallery, we offer both experiences:

• The opportunity to experience the artwork physically in our Monza gallery,
• And the convenience of exploring a curated selection of contemporary artists through our digital store, with complete security and personalized support.

Regardless of the channel chosen, maintaining a critical and informed approach is essential, without ever losing the emotional component that makes each acquisition truly unique.

The Beginning of a Journey

Purchasing your first artwork is not just an investment. It is the beginning of a personal, intellectual, and emotional journey.
It is the construction of a heritage that grows alongside your sensibility and your ability to interpret the world through art.

It is not necessary to begin with a major name or a massive investment. What matters is to begin with an authentic, conscious choice — one that reflects who you are and who you aspire to become as a collector.

At Trium Art Gallery, we firmly believe that every collection should be built as a bespoke journey, much like a tailored garment, respecting the vision, taste, and goals of each individual collector.
That is why we accompany our clients every step of the way, offering personalized consultations, curated selections, and acquisition strategies tailored to their specific needs.

If you are thinking about starting your journey into the world of contemporary art, our team is ready to guide you.

Contact us today to receive your personalized consultation or visit our online store to discover the artworks that could become the first step in building your collection.