Buy art

Many people think that works of art can only be seen in exhibitions or museums. You think you can't afford art. Know that in our time, there is art at all prices. The online art gallery , for example, offers works for all budgets. So why not give in and buy art online?

You have no idea about the value of works of art because you don't know this field and you are a little lost. How to go about buying art?

This article can give you some practical instructions and procedures to follow.

There are several methods:

Buy art online, directly from an online art gallery .
Go to art galleries in town.
Visit art fairs.
Try auctions.

Together we will see how to familiarize yourself with the art market, while having fun.

Become familiar with the contemporary art world

You have certainly visited museums or perhaps exhibitions. This is, in fact, how we most often encounter art.

The main function of a work is to be seen even before being marketed.

It is true that a painting is devoid of material function, like a table, a chair, or an earthenware jug, but that does not take away its power. Acquiring a true work of art not only enriches your inner world, but also transmits a part of your personality to the people around you. Let yourself go to the pleasure of contemplation, following your emotions. Yes, art is not apparently very useful in our lives, however, it is the salt that has the potential to add flavor to our existences. We may have forgotten it in our hectic lives, but sometimes the unnecessary is essential for our balance. First of all, it is essential to understand it by putting aside all these conceptions which would tend to make us believe that art is not for us. As you see, seeking to familiarize yourself with art is a school of life that can be expressed in many ways. This simple attitude to curiosity is very beneficial for your personal development.

Learn about and develop your knowledge of art

Without going so far as to take art history courses or enter a specialized school, it is possible to get a fairly precise idea of the field of art that interests you. Here are a few tips :

- A work is not always carried by a message. While it is true that each artistic movement has its history and its social justification, the creative act does not always follow the dogmas or interpretations that are attributed to them after the fact. It is therefore essential to maintain a critical sense, and to always follow your emotions. Let us not forget that we are steeped in preconceived ideas from our family, political and social culture. It is difficult to detach yourself from it in order to keep a lucid mind.

- Not judging too quickly and trying to deepen your perspective by letting go can help you discover exciting worlds. It is not uncommon to hear, for example, about abstract painting, that “it makes no sense, that it doesn't look like anything” or “a child would do better”. Be curious and overcome your prejudices.

How to do it, from a practical point of view?

- The simplest solution is to get closer to the artists, if you know any. Art is their life. They are generally not specialists in art history, but they know how to speak about their experience with heart and sincerity.

- Gallerists are more than traders. Above all, they are passionate, and therefore able to speak freely with you, without wanting to lead you towards a purchase, as we too often see with furniture sellers.

- Go to exhibitions and don't hesitate to interact with artists, organizers and professionals. Then you will be surprised what they can teach you.

- Do not hesitate to frequent artistic institutions , artists' associations, creative art teachers. Without necessarily taking visual arts classes, being close to this environment is very enriching.

- Online art galleries usually have an advisory service, via email or instant messaging. Sometimes you can even reach them directly by phone. Don’t hesitate to ask them for advice. Acquiring art on the Internet allows you to take the time to make your choice, without having to travel. However, buying art online still has many obstacles. Lack of knowledge, fear of a scam, fear of disappointment, are the main objections to buying art online. Too oriented towards commerce or propaganda, the networks are manipulative. It is then a matter of finding the right sources of information, or at least those which correspond to your values and your expectations.

Once you have completed these steps, you will quickly begin to appreciate the works and distinguish the differences in style and practice. You will be able to recognize a painting painted in oil from another painted in acrylic, a foundry bronze from a metal sculpture, etc.

You will then have to familiarize yourself with the art market.

Getting started with the art market

Like all product categories, works of art have their market.

There are several art markets. For works of art by great masters, the market is confidential and managed by the major auction houses on behalf of powerful investors.

Let's focus more on contemporary works, because ancient masterpieces only concern museums and major collectors.

The art market can be compared to the luxury market, with several floors. As with clothing fashion, there is haute couture and ready-to-wear. We must make a distinction between original works, that is to say a single copy, or a limited and numbered edition. Unregistered copies are not considered works of art. This is the main criterion which distinguishes a work of art from a manufactured object (in particular by the Tax Code in France - (article 98A).

In reality, differences in value only occur through the artist's side.

Motivations for buying a work of art

First of all, why do you want to buy a piece of art? Your motivation is the central axis that will determine your research. Whether it is a contemporary painting, a sculpture or a photograph, buying art is a delicate moment that responds to different desires. You “fell” in front of a painting that moved you. The more you look at it, the more you think it's for you. It is often an irrepressible crush, because the artistic work is a powerful vector of emotions. You want to change the atmosphere and decoration of your home. You intend to hang a work of art in your living room, in a bedroom, or any other room. Your motivation is of a decorative nature. You want to offer an original gift that is unlike any other. An original and unique work of art, with its certificate of authenticity. Make sure it matches your gift wish exactly. Buying art as a gift is the guarantee of an authentic gift that is sure to please. You plan to invest in the art sector. If you are looking for works by contemporary artists at prices that are still reasonable, but likely to see their market value increase, you first need to better find works that you like and that have the potential to become a good investment. It is inevitably taking a risk to buy popular artists whose prices are likely to rise in the coming years. But you can win big. Of course, you can combine several of these destinations. For example, you like a work that you want to display in your home while hoping to see its value increase. In this case, your satisfaction will be even greater if your wish is satisfied! A work of art has more than just monetary value.

Buying a favorite painting

If the motivations for purchasing a painting are very diverse, there is one that exceeds all others, both in frequency and intensity. This is a pleasure purchase, or a favorite purchase.

One day, we notice a painting, whether in a contemporary art fair, in a gallery or on an online sales site, and we find ourselves hypnotized by the artist's work. The desire to appropriate this work is powerful. Its price, its dimensions and its acceptance by loved ones then come second.

Even without feeling a great passion for painting, falling in love is a very common motivation for purchasing a painting or sculpture. A word of advice, exercise a little caution before you start purchasing. Here is a preliminary method.

Request the photo of the work, examine it carefully. Do not hesitate to zoom in to observe the details of the artist's work.

Check whether it is an original work or a limited and numbered print.

Make sure that your acquisition will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, signed by the artist.

Then give yourself some time to think before making your decision. After this period of reflection, if your desire is still there, then go for it! you may regret it if another buyer beats you to it.

Buying art for your interior decoration

The layout and interior decoration of our living spaces are an important component of well-being. Your interior design should reflect your personality and installing artwork is great for expressing your style and creating an interior design that reflects you.

A work of art has the power to profoundly change the atmosphere of a room, an apartment or a house. However, some precautions should be taken.

Is the size of the work appropriate for the room?

When purchasing art, the size of the work is a very important point. Measure the dimensions of the area you want to decorate and imagine the result.

You must also respect the different elements of your existing decoration, color of walls, furniture and objects. A word of advice: don’t hesitate to adapt your decoration to the work you have chosen. A little lick of wall paint can change everything. You will then obtain the best results, for a successful decoration. A painting hung judiciously has the power to magnify an interior. It carries an aesthetic language that interacts with the elements present.

Even if you loved art, it would be a waste not to respect the rules of harmony! Choose a work that matches the atmosphere you want to give to your room. A tip you absolutely must do: print a photo to check if the selected painting matches your interior.

Do you have a place to store the work when it is not on display?

This is an important point, because in the event of work or simply if you want to rotate paintings or sculptures, you must provide a healthy storage location. (Avoid damp places like the cellar).

With or without supervision

For paintings, the framing must absolutely be adapted to the work and the room. When in doubt, choose the simple table which will speak for itself. Otherwise, call a professional.

Your purchase will become a little closer to you every day. You will notice that art has the ability to become familiar by encountering it daily. In addition, it opens the mind to the discovery of exhibitions and museums.

You are unique, so make your home a unique place, in which life is good.

Contemporary art meets all expectations, because its diversity is limitless.

Giving art, a perfect gift for all occasions

If you are looking for an gift idea , a work of art may be the solution.

There are many circumstances for giving art: a wedding, a birthday, a retirement, the celebration of a diploma, or even a special Christmas.

An object of art is never a trivial gift, because the original work is not as common a product as a manufactured object, however luxurious it may be.

In addition, it is generally offered to a specific person. Thus, the gift must be chosen according to their tastes and their lifestyle.

The work of art is always very unique, it is the creation of a passionate artist with a boundless imagination. The adequacy between the one who receives and the one who offers is an important point. However, do not lose sight of the fact that a work of art offers to see what we wish to discover there. In this sense, it is always a personalized gift.

Make a wise choice.

Two options are possible: choose a work that has a consensus due to its aesthetics, or take the risk of purchasing a work of character.

The second solution is undoubtedly the best, although it is more risky. But, if it hits its mark, it will definitely make an unforgettable gift.

Buying art to invest

Long reserved for the richest, the art market is rapidly becoming more democratic.

More and more investors are interested in it. It is powered by collectors and museums around the world.

New investors are attracted by high returns, because investing in art is a tax-efficient investment and can constitute a safe haven.

The average return on works accessible for less than €20,000 is around 9% and for higher prices, the ratios soar.

What about the market which concerns the multitude of artists who are not listed.

For these, sales are increasing and gradually becoming structured. This market represents a new windfall for middle and upper class investors.

From now on, it is no longer just renowned artists who are generating revenue. Placements in this new market are correlated with the dynamism and professionalism of artists.

Allow for a capital gain of around 2 to 4% annually on average for a work.

If the artist is talented and a little fashionable, this can quickly climb beyond 10%.

But the opposite is also possible. You must be prudent.

Investment specialists are not mistaken: if they confirm that art is an excellent investment, especially in the long term, they advise not to exceed 10% of one's assets for these operations.

Your purchase may have value.

Investing in works of art allows you to combine business with pleasure.

The works of young artists have the potential to one day take on unexpected value.

Making an estimate of the artistic value of works is not easy for everyone.

It is better to get advice.

In summary, whatever your goals and motivations, when it comes to buying art, the work always remains central, like the artist who drives his energy and his vision of the world.

Whether it's a favorite purchase, a gift, an interior design project or an investment, consider your instincts, but don't neglect expert advice.

This remains the safest way to avoid making a mistake.

Let's enjoy art without complexes.

Art has always been part of our world. So a word of advice: don’t deprive yourself of this enriching companion. Prices are no longer prohibitive, because many artists offer affordable quality. So you can enjoy it according to your budget.

To radically change the atmosphere of a home, it is not enough to display photos of idyllic places or copies of works by great masters, an original work will remain a faithful companion.

Related topics:

The contemporary artist

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