Art collecting can feel distant – something reserved for those who have seen enough or know exactly what they’re looking for. In reality, it often begins more simply: with a work that stays with you. This May, as Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong returns for its 13th edition, it offers an accessible and more personal way into collecting. Here’s a simple way to start building your own collection at the fair

Start with a budget that feels comfortable

For those starting out, having a rough sense of budget can make the process feel more manageable. At Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong, artworks are priced between HK$1,000 and HK$100,000, giving you room to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The organisers have also thoughtfully highlighted works priced under HK$10,000, making it easier to spot more accessible pieces as you move through the fair. With that in mind, it becomes easier to focus on what you genuinely like.

See what draws you in

With a range in mind, the next step is simply to notice what draws your attention. That connection can come from anywhere: a medium, a visual style, or a subject that feels familiar. At Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong, this is reflected in a wide range of works, from The Ink Trail’s intricate black-and-white ink drawings to Krystine Wen’s playful illustrations inspired by her personal memories, alongside 105+ galleries – offering plenty of room to discover what speaks to you.

Let your space guide your choices

Next, where an artwork lives is just as important as the work itself. In a city like Hong Kong, where space can be limited, collecting often begins with smaller pieces, such as prints or photographs. Galleries like GAROME, along with the new Pieces of Hong Kong Photography Feature, reflect this approach, presenting accessible works across illustration, abstract and lens-based imagery – formats well-suited to smaller interiors while still offering variety.

For larger spaces, the approach shifts. A single work can anchor a room, setting the tone for everything around it. Sculptural or material-driven pieces, such as large-scale resin works by artists like Rolland Cheung, can introduce both scale and texture, allowing art to take on a more central role within the space.

Take your time to decide

Even if something catches your eye right away, it’s worth taking your time – looking a little longer, comparing and noticing if you find yourself returning to the same work. This is where Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong comes into its own. With so many galleries in one place, you can view a wide range of works side by side. Over time, it becomes clearer what continues to draw you back, and that’s often where a decision begins to take shape.

If you’ve been thinking about starting, this feels like a natural place to explore. Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong runs at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 14 to 17, with tickets available via Eventbrite and Ticketflap – click through to secure your visit.

Also see: Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong 2026: Where your art collection begins