How to Select and Buy Art: Rule #1

Rule #1: Buy What You Like

Often people start their search for art when they encounter a noticeably bare spot on a wall. A lot of people are intimidated by the thought of purchasing art to fill that blank spot, but, fear not! Buying art can be a joyful, not painful experience!

The first plan of action would be to have a look on the internet, both to have a look for commercial galleries near you and to peruse the varied and wonderful styles of art that are out there. If you know, or find out, what you like you can look for and buy art directly from the artist, or look for galleries that sell those styles. While many galleries offer a wide selection, some restrict themselves to landscapes or wildlife, traditional, contemporary or abstract. You also needn’t restrict yourself to galleries in your area now that it is so easy to purchase online. And don’t worry, if you purchase online and do not like the artwork when you get it, you can return it for an exchange. Do check with individual galleries and artists to confirm their policies though. First time art buyers will often feel more comfortable dealing with a gallery to help them with their selection, and can then branch out on their own if they so wish as they become more familiar with their likes and dislikes, as well as art in general.

The best rule for selecting art is to BUY WHAT YOU LIKE! If you buy what someone tells you is an “investment”, or buy an artwork from an artist that the Joneses have but you don’t really like it, are you going to enjoy it? Will you even hang it on your wall? If you pick what you like then it will be valuable to you and you will enjoy your artwork for a very long time, and likely more with each passing year.

Also, know the approximate size of artwork that would fit in the spot you would like to fill. Having this in the back of your mind as you search may be helpful in narrowing down candidates.

Next time: Colour.