I have a disease. It's not really a physical or mental ailment. I call it, "The Collecting Bug." More specifically, "THE ART COLLECTING BUG."

I think it's the same sickness that collectors of comic books or snowglobes or antique cars have, but only a different strain. I think that I may know how and where I got it, but I don't know how to get rid of it.

Did I catch it as a schoolkid when I attended class field trips to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art in New York? That was many (and I stress many) years ago. I didn't feel sick back then and surely the disease went into remission over the years.

"Shooting Pool" Kathy Norris

Hmm. I think it may have come back when I lived and worked in Richmond, Virginia. Virginia is loaded with flea markets and shops that sell old paintings that have lost their way to greatness. I remember buying a couple of those, which I still have. Did the disease hit then?

Maybe. I think I really got, "THE ART COLLECTING BUG" when I accidentally logged onto an art website. I couldn't believe it! Art that I could actually afford? You gotta be kidding me!

"Couple in Cafe" Mike Jones

Yup. There it was. Clear as day. My first real painting by a real artist.

Not one of those, "Velvet Elvis" creations. (Although Velvet Elvis has his place as well. Just not in my home). As I recall, it was a blue, red and yellow abstract piece. 16" by 20". Looking at it now, I don't know what the heck I was thinking. I think that I was in love with the price more than the actual painting. Anyway, that MUST BE when I truly caught the bug.

Funny, because looking at the painting now, I almost get sick all over again. Fortunately, my taste has improved.

"Cocktail Party" Mike Jones

I guess I'm holding onto the painting on the chance that the artist will make it big one day. I doubt that will happen, but if I get rid of the painting and the artist becomes famous, guess what?

I'll really be sick.

MICHAEL CORBIN IS A WRITER AND AVID ART COLLECTOR