Unless you are an art curator, gallery owner, or an artist, purchasing the right art does not come very naturally. Galleries can seem intimidating at first. You may be worried about choosing the right size or the right colours to fit your space. Or you may worry how to choose the right emerging artist. As it turns out, choosing art for home is much more intuitive than one might think if you follow a few simple rules.
Buy what you really like and talks to your heart.
Though your home décor may obey certain rules, such as investing in neutral couches or flooring, I would advice and urge people to use their walls for more irrational, eclectic and colorful choices. Art is a place for expression through colour texture and content. It’s an expression of feelings and emotions. You should always choose art at a heart level.
Get to know the artist
Getting to know the artist that, created the art piece you are interested in, helps to a better understanding of the content of his/her work and the context around the piece itself. If you don’t get the chance to meet the artist in person, try to read about him/her as much as possible. Most of the contemporary galleries and curators, nowadays, offer artists profiles on their website, so that you will have the chance to read their CV, their technique , their statement and they way there are thinking or influenced throughout their creative procedure. I totally urge you to read up on the artist who produced your art, or even follow them on Instagram to get a glimpse into their lives!
Be ready to act fast or you will miss out the Art piece
Usually each art piece made by an artist is unique. So if your heart is beating for that art piece, then you should act fast. Whereas if you don’t then you might be thinking: “I regret not buying on time. I am still thinking about it. How can I find the same exactly?” Well unfortunately you won’t. You can find something similar from the same artist but never the same. Art is often unique and one-of-a-kind. If your heart leaps at the sight of a piece, don’t hesitate to proceed on buying it or you will miss the opportunity. “The film Herb & Dorothy is a great example of how you can buy what you love and still live on a budget.” (Worth watching it)
Attend Art Events and galleries that promote Emerging Artists
Make your research and find out what’s happening in your city concerning art events and art exhibitions. This is a great opportunity for you to be exposed and be familiar with emerging artists. Buying from young or upcoming artists who are only starting to make a name for themselves, is like coming across with an amazing real estate deal. Don’t forget that some decades ago, you could buy an Andy Warhol’s painting with only 500 Pounds and now is worth a fortune.
Learn About Print Works and Framing
Prints works are, obviously, less expensive than the prototype painting and it’s a good solution for someone that cannot afford buying the oil on canvas prototype, but still wants to obtain that Art piece on his wall. At this point though, you should bear in mind that many Print works are not sold with the frames. If you want to save money on framing, you should always check the acidity in the mats first and foremost before you buy the frame. You should always make sure that the mats touching the artwork are acid-free. If you don’t, you will end up destroying your art work. Acidic mats found in low budget ready-made frames can quickly damage or discolour the artwork.”
Commission an Art Piece from the Artist you love
Purchasing a commissioned piece of art is a great way to obtain exactly the right size of painting for your wall and at the same time you are collecting the Art work of an artist you love. When choosing an artist though, make sure that he/she has the experience in making commissions, or ask your curator who has worked with the artist in the past and he/she can advise you accordingly. Bear in mind that during this procedure you should not try to control or restrain the artist far from his/her style. Otherwise it will be a recipe for disaster. Make sure you clearly state your expectations before the work begins so that you are not disappointed.
Payment Plans and negotiations
Last but not least, you can always suggest a payment plan or negotiate. It never hurts to ask! If you are really in love with an art piece, but your budget doesn’t allow you to proceed, then try to negotiate. You will be surprised how many ways are on the table for you to obtain the piece. Maybe the dealer or the artist wouldn’t mind to offer you a monthly payment plan in order for you to be able to buy the painting. Also there is always a room for a discount from the starting price. Make your offer. Always try your best when you really want to buy something so beautiful.
