Buying Art is Empowering.
There is this huge misconception that buying art is for the elite. Sure, there’s a lot of art with hefty price tags, but there are also ways to start an original art collection on a budget. Here are a few of my tips:
Pay attention to emerging artists in your community and on instagram. Emerging artists are typically pricing their work lower as they experiment with their voice and establish a following.
Follow artists on social media. Buying art directly from artists is a fabulous way to score a deal. Sometimes artists just need to clean out the studio and offer pieces that are no longer serving them at a reduced cost. Instagram flash sale, anyone?
If you fall in love with a gigantic painting, but are cringing on the price tag, consider a payment plan. Many artists are happy to coordinate an agreement that will help you land that perfect one-of-a-kind piece.
Pay attention to galleries that pride themselves in making art accessible and have developed creative ways to make that possible. My favorite spot is Nahcotta Gallery in Portsmouth, NH. They coordinate the Enormous Tiny Art Show in the Spring and Fall at their gallery and maintain the effort online year-round. All pieces in this show are 10” x 10” or smaller, and you can find art from established artists at a “tiny” price.
Keep your eye out for art in unexpected places. I bought my first piece of art from a “YartSale” (So punny, right?!) on the side of the road in my hometown. It was quite literally a yard sale with art. The piece is a humble 4” x 4” pastel cityscape (image below), and I don’t even know who the artist is, but it brings me so much joy.
If you can’t swing the price tag of an original, check an artist’s website to see if they offer prints! Artist made prints are typically high quality and limited edition, so you are still getting something special while supporting that person’s work.
YART SALE FIND
My First Original Art Purchase, 2014
My favorite Nesting Bowls from Kayla Granoff
2. Own something one-of-a-kind.
We live in a world where almost everything is mass produced, even wall art. I urge you to resist the Target art isle, or at least mix the collection on your walls with original work. There is something really special about having a piece of art in your home that you won’t find anywhere else on the planet.
Left: Original Collage, Elizabeth A. Curry
Right: Print of Deer Isle Marsh, Sarah Madiera Day
3. Directly Support an Artist’s Work.
Unlike buying something commercially produced, buying original art directly benefits the artist. Even a small sale is a big push and means a whole lot. It can be a very personal transaction. You are not only buying an object, but you are investing in a vision.
4. Art is Powerful.
Everyone connects with art differently, but when you find a piece that speaks to you, it’s magic. Art can trigger memories, bring joy, and make a statement. When you’re hunting for the right piece, pay attention to what resonates with you rather than trying to match it to your couch. If you have a connection with a piece of art, it will fit into your world long after you redecorate your living room.
Bri Custer, The Best View in the Park, 36” x 66”, 2014