Buying Art is an intensely personal and subjective emotional experience. Even experienced collectors sometimes agonize when acquiring a new piece. Art is often considered to be a lasting investment — one that reflects our taste and our design sense.  For some families, Art is the last object in their shopping list as there are so many other pressing necessities. For others including me, Art is the soul of a room. It finishes the look, it gives a sense of closure. It doesn’t have to be an expensive item- it can be a collection of framed posters, family photographs. Anything but bare walls!!

For those of you who are in the market, here are some general rules:

When you look at a piece, does it appeal to you, or resonate with you in some way? How does it make you feel? Do you think you will still like it next year? Knowing what you don’t like is as important as knowing what you like.

Ask questions about the artist (read the Artist’s bio), the process, the materials used, read the Artist’s statement if there is one. Educate your self about the terms being used to describe the nature of the artwork: Giclees, mixed media, posters, limited editions, etc.  There’s absolutely nothing wrong with buying on the street on the spur of the moment. But if you are spending a bit more, then it is helpful to buy art from a knowledgeable and reputable source. They have done the research for you !!.

Take photos of the space you have in mind and take measurements!!!

We’ve all bought something that we later realized we did not immediately have the right space for. But art adds the greatest value where it can be viewed and appreciated.  Keep in mind what is beneath and on the side of the artwork! If you are looking for a piece above your sofa, measure the sofa so that you know how much space you have to fill. In general, we try to fill 75% of the width of a sofa.

Take your time, do not rush into buying something you will regret later. Do not be shy to take the artwork on approval and try it at home. It is usually the best way to see whether it is the right choice for you. Most service oriented galleries allow it.

HAVE FUN!!!