Art as a Considered Purchase

The Purchase of Art

Because of its very nature, (i.e. subjective) the purchase of art is often somewhat impulsive, but of course even with impulsive purchases, there are always a few important factors to be considered.

Budget:

Budget is probably the first and most important factor – and in many cases, for most of us, it is the least variable. So unless you are purchasing very much from the heart (and with a flexible wallet) then perhaps settle on a reasonable budget before you start your hunt. If you didn't even realise that you were in the market for some original art, but have stumbled on a piece that you can't stop thinking about, then fear not, a conversation with the gallery will generally show that you can pay the piece off over a certain time frame - galleries are generally very accommodating.

Space:

The second factor is often the space onto which you plan to place your art. People will often go on the hunt with a space in mind, but then fall in love with something that ends up hanging or sitting somewhere completely different than where was originally intended.

We would generally say, if you have a certain space in mind, then great but don't worry too much about it because it can be restrictive and you might end up passing up on something you really love. Keep your mind well and truly open. If you see something you just can’t leave behind then remind yourself that art is often a rather wise purchase .

Genre

Although most experienced art buyers often favour one artist or one particular genre, you will find however, that overall they will keep an open mind and will probably have bought a bit of everything over the years, with eclectic collections which transcend styles, artists and genres; sometimes for investment purposes, sometimes for posterity and most often, just because they love it. Eclectic and varied collections can often be the most interesting to view.

Investment:

As far as investment art is concerned, many people get caught up in knots about it. The fact is, original art will almost always hold its value at the very least - and at best, will appreciate in value over time. Sometimes a piece may not even be particularly amazing or to everyone's taste, but because it is of a heritage value or simply by an artist of note, it's value increases. It is worth noting that from time to time a print is also valuable; taking into account the age and provenance of the piece and the artist, the print run (limited) and / or if the artist has individually signed it etc.

LOVE

If you don’t have insider knowledge or lots of experience and you are uncertain about a piece, it is advisable to get advice before you buy. But it is also really, really important that you buy a piece because you love it and believe it to be of a high calibre of work – remember, you will have to live with it!