Why I Collect Art: How Art Collecting Brings Joy, Connection, and Meaning
Let’s get one thing out of the way: I don’t collect art because I’m trying to look fancy, impress anyone, or curate a perfectly styled home that belongs in a magazine.
I collect art because it makes me happy. Full stop.
Sure, research shows that collecting art is rarely about “just buying something.” It can be tied to status, prestige, or even investment. And while I do have a small gallery wall filled with artwork I’ve collected from artists I love, my number one reason for collecting art—if it’s in my price range—is simple: it brings me joy.
That’s it. That’s the whole reason.
And the funny thing is, science actually backs this up. A 2011 study from University College London found that viewing art triggers an immediate release of dopamine and increased blood flow to the brain—giving the viewer the same feeling as being in love. You've heard the term recently "dopamine hit". Which honestly explains a lot, because I’ve absolutely had moments where I’ve stood in front of a piece of original art and thought, yep… this is it. I need this in my life.
But happiness isn’t the only reason I collect art.
Art Collecting as Self-Expression
For me, art collecting is a form of self-expression. My personal art collection is like a visual journal of my internal world—my values, favorite things, and the moments that have shaped me.
Some of the artwork in my home is tied to a specific trip. Some pieces are connected to a memory or a person. Some reflect my own art journey-a workshop I took or an artist who inspired me to keep going and pushing my own boundries. When I look at them, I don’t just see color or composition—I remember where I was when I found them and why they mattered to me.
That’s one of the real benefits of collecting art. It’s not about trends or perfectly styled spaces. It’s about surrounding yourself with art that feels meaningful, relatable, and deeply personal.
Art as Connection
Collecting art also creates connection.
Buying art connects me to people, places, memories, and ideas I value. When I support artists by purchasing their work, I’m not just buying art—I’m supporting creativity, storytelling, and the human hands behind the work.
Art becomes a bridge. It can remind me of a place I love, a season of life, or a feeling I want to hold onto. It often sparks conversation and connection, not just for me, but for anyone who steps into my home and asks about a piece on the wall.
Living With Art Every Day
One of my favorite things about collecting original art is that it lives with you. You don’t save it for special occasions—you experience it every day. While walking past it, drinking coffee, or having one of those quiet moments at home.
Over time, the meaning of a piece can shift and grow. Art evolves with you, and that ongoing relationship is one of the most meaningful reasons art collecting matters
Why Collecting Art Matters
Collecting art matters because it brings joy into everyday life.
It helps us slow down, feel something, and stay connected to what truly matters.
My art collection isn’t about prestige or perfection. It’s about happiness, memory, and connection. It tells my story—quietly and honestly—one piece of art at a time.
And that’s more than enough reason for me.
If you’ve ever felt drawn to a piece of art simply
because it made you feel something, trust that. Collecting art doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to make you happy. If my work ever feels like it belongs in your story, I’d be honored for it to live in your home.
Many thanks to so many artists featured on my walls and for the joy their art brings me! Amy Eichler, Heike Talbert, Eddie Powell, Beth Woessner, Denise White, Julia Eves, RJ Lawlor, Tiffany Foster Smith, Leslie Perryman, Esther McCord, Tracy Cendoya, Sara Burch, Shareen Pruitt, Cindy Zimmerman, Payton Watts, Amanda Evanston, Lou Stine, and so many more!!! See my instagram reel @stacyspanglerart for a better look at my art collection)
Disclaimer: While I am a journalism major and love to write, I do use ChatGPT to help with the refining and editing process of my blog posts. I put my thoughts and research down info a rough format in my own voice and ask AI to edit and polish. This has greatly freed me up to have much more time and energy for creating more art, but still being able to share more with YOU :)