Posted on June 17th, 2025 

  

Trust isn’t something I talk about all the time, but it’s there—in every piece I create and in every relationship I build with collectors. 

It’s not just about liking how a painting looks; it’s about feeling like there’s something honest behind it. 

When someone connects with my work, I want them to feel that connection isn’t accidental. 

It’s built on something real. That matters to me. 

Abstract art can be personal in a quiet, powerful way—and when trust enters the picture, that connection becomes even more meaningful. 

When a collector brings one of my pieces into their space, I don’t see it as a simple exchange. 

It’s part of a conversation we’ve started together—one that continues long after the painting leaves my studio. 

That kind of relationship is why I do this. I believe in creating art that speaks to more than just the eye. 

And I want those who collect it to feel part of something—not just a transaction, but a shared journey grounded in mutual respect and curiosity. 

  

The Importance of Trust in Art Collecting 

Trust isn’t just a nice-to-have in art collecting—it’s what makes the experience truly rewarding. 

When someone connects with my work, I want them to feel grounded in that relationship. It’s not just about how a piece looks in a room but how it feels to know the story behind it, where it came from, and why it was made. 

That trust allows collectors to move beyond surface-level appreciation and connect with the meaning that lives inside the work. It removes guesswork and replaces it with confidence. Instead of wondering if something is “worth it,” you already know it is—because you trust where it came from and who created it. 

Over time, that kind of connection makes collecting feel less transactional and more personal. You start seeing how a piece speaks to your own instincts and emotions, and you feel more comfortable exploring new directions. 

I’ve seen collectors discover a deeper love for abstraction or take a chance on a different scale or palette—all because they trust the artist’s intentions. It opens the door to long-term relationships that go well beyond a single purchase. 

And when you’ve got that bond, each new piece adds to a shared story between you and the artist. 

There’s also a practical side to all this. When trust is strong, provenance becomes crystal clear. The work’s history, authenticity, and evolution are easy to follow because you’re part of that story from the beginning. 

You’re not just buying art—you’re investing in something with roots. That foundation helps your collection hold value over time, especially when the artist continues to grow and gain recognition. 

Collectors who support artists early and stay with them often find their pieces become even more meaningful—and yes, more valuable. 

More than anything, I believe trust turns collecting into something alive. It creates room for real connection—studio visits, conversations about process, even first looks at new work before anyone else sees it. 

And when that happens, collecting shifts from being about having art to being part of it. That’s where the real joy is: in knowing you’re not just building a collection, you’re joining a journey. 

  

How To Choose Trustworthy Artists 

Let’s be honest—beautiful art is everywhere. But when it comes to collecting, it’s not just about what looks good. It’s about who you’re buying from and whether you trust them enough to let their work live in your space. 

I always tell collectors: trust isn’t built on first impressions. It takes a little time, a few conversations, and a close look at the artist’s actions, not just their output. 

The artists worth collecting from usually leave clues. Their work speaks clearly, sure—but so do the ways they show up. Want to spot the real deal? Here’s a simple, no-nonsense path I’d suggest:  

1. Start by looking for consistency—not just in style, but in message and effort. 
2. Next, observe how they talk about their process and career. Are they open, informed, and clear? 
3. Finally, pay attention to how they treat their community—collectors, peers, even critics. 

These steps help cut through the noise. A professional artist who’s genuinely invested in their craft will show up in more ways than just putting paint on canvas. 

They’ll share stories, offer context, and welcome dialogue. Their presence online (or in person) should reflect who they are in their studio—thoughtful, focused, and real. 

When I meet new collectors, I’m not aiming to impress—I’m aiming to connect. I want people to understand where my work comes from and what it means. 

That kind of transparency should be standard. If someone’s dodging questions or glossing over details, take note. Evasiveness is a red flag. A good artist doesn’t need to have all the answers, but they should be open to the conversation. 

Trust also shows up in how an artist handles the long game. Are they still learning? Trying new techniques? Taking risks with intention? That kind of growth mindset often reflects how they show up for their collectors too. 

It’s less about sales and more about relationships. Building trust with an artist isn’t just about avoiding regret. It’s about making your collection something personal, grounded, and lasting. 

And if you’re curious where to start, my abstract works are always open for exploration. Let’s make the journey meaningful. 

  

Protecting Your Investment  

Having a direct relationship with an artist changes everything. You get to see the work evolve, understand its roots, and build confidence in its story. That kind of access strips away doubt. 

It’s why I stay open and transparent with collectors—whether it’s talking about past exhibitions, sharing behind-the-scenes views of new work, or providing any details they need to feel good about the piece they’re bringing home. 

You don’t have to go it alone either. Reaching out to past buyers or checking in with reputable galleries can offer a quick gut check. Most serious artists aren’t just active—they’re known. A credible presence builds credibility. 

Trust isn’t just protection—it’s permission. It lets you focus on the experience of collecting, the emotion of discovery, and the joy of connecting with something real. 

When that foundation is solid, everything else—value, meaning, longevity—starts to take care of itself. Because in this world, the most secure investment isn’t just the art. It’s the connection you build around it. 

  

Building a Collection That Reflects Trust and Meaning 

Collecting art isn’t just about selecting beautiful pieces—it’s about connecting with the people and stories behind them. Trust is what transforms a simple acquisition into a meaningful relationship. 

When collectors and artists engage with openness and authenticity, every piece gains depth, clarity, and lasting value. 

It’s in that dialogue—those conversations, shared insights, and moments of understanding—that collecting becomes more than a transaction. It becomes personal. 

For those drawn to the bold, emotional world of abstract art, our collection offers a curated starting point. 

Check out my Abstract works or revisit collector favorites in the Sold Archive—see what’s popular now and what’s already been sold. 

At Brenda Erickson Art, we’re committed to making the collecting experience thoughtful, transparent, and grounded in trust. 

If you’re ready to start your own collection or want to learn more about the work and process behind it, contact us directly at 770-335-2743. 

This is more than art—it’s about legacy, connection, and finding something that truly belongs in your story. We invite you to step into that experience with confidence and curiosity.