Fear and Loathing in Purchasing Art

Great article in the New York Times about purchasing art. It's a shame when people want to buy art, but are afraid of getting something they feel will be ridiculed by the guests leaving their home. It takes all the joy out of the experience, and many end up buying either safe blue chip art or something that is trendy in the gallery scene, paying way too much and hating it secretly. Or worse, buying Kinkade and bragging about it. Look no further that the Broad Contemporary to see a lot of bad '80s art (not everything in there is bad). You have heard of the artists, and that is why he bought them. And, yes, the value will likely increase in time.

When you purchase art you will see the piece every day, so make sure it's something you like. Basically, it's like wine, if you like it then it's good. I don't know about hiring a consultant or decorator to find art for you, seems a bit odd unless you are using them to find something specific and you want to avoid legwork. The best thing to do is visit a lot of galleries. Both at openings and during off hours. Do you like the artwork? Is the gallerina helpful? Are they snobs? Is it painful to find prices?

I know a wealthy man who was snubbed at a Culver City gallery, and will not return. He buys art, has taste and spends a lot of money on art. So he spent his money next door instead. Also, the way galleries treat people is a reflection on the artist. I would be upset if some one I knew went to the gallery where I show and was not treated well.

I have some friends who have one of my paintings in their house. Most of their art is bought at Ikea and such featuring prints of landscapes to go with the couch. But the comments they get are always about my painting. I'm not saying it is the best painting in the world, but it is obvious that it is not a print and is not common looking. There are lots of artists making great art for affordable prices out there.