Starting your own original contemporary art collection
Looking for artwork of your own, perhaps start a collection of original contemporary art? Do you want to buy original art as a special gift? How do you start?
Most importantly: Look A Lot! Go to galleries, museums, art fairs and shows. The Internet is a great place to look – there’s no pressure, you have easy access to information such as original contemporary art lists and information on the contemporary artists. Find sites with a variety of
contemporary artist
options and a robust artist directory. Information sites may be run by non-profits and are designed to help the general public expand their knowledge of contemporary artist offerings, trends, and general art information. You’ll find plenty of free information about original contemporary art offerings and more.
Don’t buy right away. Take time to develop your eye and know your heart. Come back to the same site many times, each time picking your favorite. You will probably see this change over time, and you’ll notice more interesting aspects of the artwork.
Your opinion is what matters, not that of a salesperson or a critic. You are going to
buy original art, so you need to be the one to enjoy it! Whether you are looking for a new contemporary artist or someone whose original art you already own, follow your heart.
Why are you buying? For a specific place in your home? To “capture” beauty? For the positive emotional experience, spiritual uplift? As an investment? All good reasons. You also contribute to society by supporting a contemporary artist who enhances society and culture with original contemporary art.
Budget and Prices. Price is somewhat subjective, as is what you will like. Buy the art that you love, but also make sure you’re not paying too much for it.
It’s difficult for most artists to set a monetary value on an expression from their heart. A
contemporary artist may ask a lot for their favorite piece. Another contemporary artist may lower prices because of a need for cash.
The price of most works, is connected to objective variables:
1) Medium. Sketches and prints are usually less expensive, as is watercolor on paper. You can usually find good buys of fine art in these media. In general, oils on canvas will be more expensive, as will sculpture. Photography has been going up in price, but is still a place where beginners can find wonderful art for reasonable prices.
2) Work involved. The amount of work put into a piece, connected to medium. More time spent on a work of art does not necessarily make it better. A sketch that Rembrandt did in minutes can be worth a fortune!
3) Size. In general, the larger, the more expensive (large works involve more materials, although this is usually a small part of the cost, but they are more difficult and involve more work.)
4) The Artist. Younger and less well-known artists will generally charge less. This is the point at which the sharp-eyed buyer who knows what he/she likes, loves to buy.
5) The Market. Site and gallery managers will guide the artist in determining value by knowing the present market.
Buying art is different from buying other products. When you buy something that you love, you will usually find yourself loving it more and more. You are enriching your life and shaping your environment. Enjoy! |
