CalderaDinger651
How To Buy Art - Beginners Level
Lots of people buy art. The reason why they buy are varied. Many people only buy what they need to brighten a home or office. These people may go through that a framed poster or perhaps a decorative paper calendar is art.
Cheap decoration has a place, however the people who find bargain decor are less likely to become buyers of original art. Frame shops have tried to push posters, "art print" lithographs, and giclee' editions as art. Interestingly the average frame shop today can charge $100 - $250 for an "archival" matted lithograph in a frame under glass or plastic.
These same frame shops may charge $400 - $1200 for a giclee' (a litho on canvas having a textured acrylic coating) in a simple frame. Whereas a buyer could buy a small to large original work for $80 - $600.
Although there could be no guarantee the original work will increase in value over the years, you can be certain the poster or litho or giclee' will reduction in value as soon as it leaves the shop.
Ceramics and sculpture suffer exactly the same market problems that flat work suffers. Mass production of "art" ceramics and sculpture editions is everywhere. It's overpriced - these pieces can range from $40 to $600.
Production art from factories in under developed countries is in glut at import stores, discount stores and some furniture stores selling decor items. And it has little chance of holding any value beyond it's second sale at a thrift shop or garage sale.
What else can a buyer find? With a little shopping around a buyer will find artists inside the region selling original art. Some small galleries and frame shops have original works, but going directly towards the artist usually gets you the best pieces for your money.
Art fairs, annual community art shows and auctions are excellent ways to see the works of numerous artists previously. You can meet artists, exchange cards or phone numbers, even negotiate better prices.
Surfing the web is yet another strategy for finding numerous artists selling original works in each and every genre, medium, size, and color. Be cautious about artists selling overpriced posters and giclee's of their own works - bargain for originals.
If you can visit an artist's studio you might get to see a larger spectrum of their work. Along the way of getting to know the artist negotiations might be more favorable, particularly if you want several piece or bring enthusiastic friends who will buy as well. Bartering is a real possibility for some artists as well, based on what you have to offer.
