What collectors often ask me (and what I wish more people knew)

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with many collectors—some seasoned, some just starting their journey. Their questions are thoughtful and often lead to meaningful conversations about art, value, and the creative process. I thought I’d share a few of those questions here, along with what I often say in response.

“How long does it take you to make a painting?”
This is probably the question I’m asked most often—and it’s the hardest to answer. While I could try to count the hours or days spent on a single piece, the truth is that each painting takes me my whole life to make. Every brushstroke is shaped by years of learning, experimenting, succeeding, and failing. All of my experiences—personal and artistic—feed into that moment when the brush first touches the canvas, and they stay with me right through to the final layer of varnish. So, while a painting might technically take a week or a month, its roots go back decades.

“Where do your ideas come from?”
Most often, they come from feelings or memories. Not always specific ones—sometimes it’s more of a mood or sensation that I try to translate into colour and form. Travel often inspires me, as does being in nature. But the real ideas tend to show up once I’ve started working. It’s rarely planned. I follow the painting more than I lead it.

“What’s the meaning behind this piece?”
I believe part of my job as an abstract painter is to leave room for interpretation. I might have a certain feeling or idea in mind when I start, but I don’t want to dictate how a viewer experiences the work. The beauty of abstract art is that it allows space for you to bring your own story to it.

“How do you determine the cost of a painting?”
This is a really fair question, and I’m glad when people ask it. The price of a painting reflects many things:
– Artist-grade materials like professional paints, archival canvases, and varnishes
– Time spent creating (which can vary widely)
– Studio overhead, including rent, electricity, tools, and equipment
– Labour, including people who help with marketing, packing, shipping, and accounting
– Shipping and handling costs, especially for large works
– And yes, a profit margin, so I can make a sustainable living doing what I love

When you buy a painting, you’re not just buying the image—you’re supporting a whole ecosystem behind the work, and that includes the years of experience and education that led up to it.

“How do I start collecting art?”
There’s no one right way to begin. I usually suggest starting with curiosity. Visit galleries, attend open studios, follow artists online, ask questions. See what you're drawn to, and pay attention to how a piece makes you feel. You don’t need to know everything about art to start collecting it. If a piece resonates with you, that’s reason enough.