Imagine this: a bustling market in the heart of Mexico City, alive with the hum of conversations, the scent of street food, and the vibrant colors of handcrafted treasures. It was there at the Bazaar Sábado that I made my first foray into art collecting—a moment I had been dreaming of for as long as I can remember.
My lifelong fascination with art, particularly with bright and bold creations, has fueled my ambition to build a collection that reflects my artistic perspective on beauty and meaning. Now, as I pursue my master’s degree in Fashion and Art Business, that dream feels closer than ever.
The discovery wasn’t planned; it was serendipitous, a happy coincidence that certainly became one of the best moments of the trip. Knowing my love for art, my boyfriend insisted we visit the market during my birthday trip to visit him in his home city. “You’re going to find something incredible,” he promised. As we strolled through the maze of vendors selling sculptures, sketched pieces of papyrus, photographs, and rare Mexican treasures that you couldn’t get anywhere else, I felt the rush of possibility. Each booth held a story, each piece a glimpse into a world of creativity and passion.
Then I saw a sizable abstract face, a striking painting by an emerging artist whose name I’d never heard before. The brushstrokes were raw, the colors bold, the energy undeniable. I couldn’t stop staring. It wasn’t just art—it was a connection.
The artist’s name is Jorge Alberto Aguilar Rojas. He is an emerging global Mexican artist in the making who is known for his take on abstract figuration in which he demonstrates his signature style: solid lines and vibrant colors that revolve around nature and complex portraits.
Upon delving into more research about Jorge, aka JAAR’s work and philosophy, I discovered that as an artist, he strives to connect his pieces to viewers by bringing a party of good feelings, infusing environments with vibrancy and positivity. This ethos made owning a piece of his work more meaningful; it reminded me of the innate creativity we each have.
If you’re dipping your toes into art collecting, let me offer some advice from this experience:
1. Trust Your Gut
You don’t need a degree in art history to know when something speaks to you. Collecting art isn’t about impressing others—it’s about surrounding yourself with pieces that make your heart race. I think the stigma around art is that we are all somehow doing it wrong. I think the only way to do it “wrong” is by buying something you don’t absolutely fall in love with.
2. Start Small, Dream Big
Investment pieces don’t have to cost a fortune. Look for emerging artists whose work feels fresh and exciting. These pieces often have the added thrill of potential—both artistic and financial.
3. Buy the Story, Not Just the Art
When I asked the vendor about the paintings, he said he was the artist! A young man whose jubilant energy was as bright as his work. Inspired by the interplay of traditional and modern Mexican culture. That connection made the purchase even more meaningful.
4. Make It an Adventure
The setting matters as much as the piece. Whether it’s a market in Mexico City or a gallery in London, the experience of discovery adds a layer of memory to every work you bring home.
That first painting now hangs in my home, a reminder of that special day and the start of what I hope will be a lifelong journey centered on the beauty of art.
About the author:
Agustin Arellano is a third-generation polo player who made his mark as part of the US Polo team. Aside from that, Agustin is an art enthusiast with a growing presence on social media. With over 10,000 Instagram followers, he collaborates with brands such as US Polo Assn., Manifattura Valor, Fairfax & Favor, John Archer Clothing, and Carlito’s Handmade, establishing himself as a dynamic talent with a distinct vision for art, style, and the equestrian world. For more on Agustin follow his Instagram for updates.
