It's natural to feel a degree of doubt when considering an art purchase.
After all, buying art is not a simple transaction.
Due to its very nature, art is not just another commodity; it is a unique object, born of emotion and ideas, that connects with us on a profoundly aesthetic and personal level.
That is why it can be so difficult to define an artwork’s price.
Autumn, 1995, mixed media on canvas, 130x150, Aloyzas Smilingis-Elis
It is not just about demand and an artist’s professionalism; it’s about heritage, our connection with art, and even more importantly, the story the artwork carries within it.
Whether we decide to buy art to make our home look nice and cozy, or whether we simply saw and fell in love with an artwork, the common questions always surface:
- Is the price reasonable?
- Will it look good in my home?
- Where do I hang / store it?
If these questions are on your mind, you are exactly where you should be. Here is a clear guide on what to do as you begin building your collection.
1. Develop Your Aesthetic Eye
There is so much art out there, and in order to understand what kind of art you will love for the rest of your life, you need to develop your own unique taste.
You don’t need to graduate from an art academy for that. Simply start attending galleries, museums, and art fairs.
Do some browsing online. Soon, you will realise that you resonate better with certain styles, mediums, and artists' work. This education is the first step toward confidence.
Little Crows, 2023, bronze and silver-plating, h 30 cm, Aurelija Šimkutė
2. Invest in True Connection
Don’t rush the acquisition; look for artwork that you truly can’t live without.
The true test of connection with art is simple: don't buy it immediately. If the artwork remains in your mind days later—if you find yourself continually considering thinking about it—you’ve found a piece worth acquiring. You will love it. Forever.
3. Understand the Market Value
An artwork is worth what buyers are ready to pay for it. If you are thinking about buying an artwork created by an established artist, you can easily find out whether the price you are being asked to pay is reasonable.
Talk to a gallerist, do some research online, and you will get a good understanding of the artist's price range.
However, if it is someone who is just starting out, it may be more difficult to justify the price. My recommendation is to look at the prices of similar artworks in terms of medium, size, and the artist’s experience level to set a fair benchmark.
Finding A Place For Your Art
There are two equally valid ways of bringing art into your home:
- You find an artwork you love, and you will always find a place where it looks best and will make room for it if necessary.
- You buy the artwork and design your interior around it.
From my experience, both options work.
If you are collecting art, there are a few additional things to consider for security and preservation. Art does not like humid spaces and direct sunlight.
Ready to Start Your Collection?
Begin your journey with us - visit our online gallery ArtGoda.com and browse a curated selection of contemporary artworks.
