5 Ways You Could Pay Too Much When Buying Art
Article by Lisa Strazza
1. Reproductions:
Prints, giclees or limited editions can be an inexpensive way to decorate, without spending as much as you would for an original. However, many people have purchased multiple edition art (which seemed like a good investment) only to find out it was over produced in an already flooded market. While this art still has value if you enjoy it in your home, many collectors have seen their perceived valuable investment being sold for cost on e-bay at sub-dealer prices. I would suggest even a small art budget is better spent on an original, even if you buy from a local artist who’s just starting out. Hey you never know you just may discover the next Picasso.
2. Auctions:
Auctions can be great places to get artwork but make sure you’ve done your homework. Be educated about the piece, don’t over buy and always check your emotions at the door. Above all make sure it’s a reputable auction house. Hopefully you’ll never find yourself on vacation as the lucky high bidder in the “feel good wine buzz art auction”. It happens more often than you would think, and most people have a terrible case of “buyers remorse” when they get back home.
3. Fashion:
Before hopping on the ban wagon to buy artwork from the next “artist du-jour”, consider how you’ll feel about their work in the long run. A lot of buzz about who’s currently hot in the art market can be hype that gets falsely created. Funny, when it comes to music most of us are secure in knowing what we like, and we don’t mind voicing our opinions but we often don’t take that approach with our thinking about or buying art. With that in mind, be sure that you really love the artwork, don’t be persuaded when someone tries to tell you what you “should” like.
4. The Price of Services:
When you go to some galleries depending on there location or prestige, be careful not to overpay for services. Make sure that the gallery provides you with the best service for your money. A good gallery like a good broker will earn their commission by helping you with your purchase every step of the way. Make sure they are knowledgeable about the artist, the artwork and helpful with any questions you have before you make your art investment. In some cases it is an added bonus when you get to meet the artist at the gallery opening.
Of course best case scenario would be to deal with an artists that sells their work direct, either through special events at their studios or through their own galleries. While this is not possible with all artist, it is very appealing to the buyer because it greatly decrease the purchase price of artwork. It also makes for a much more personal experience. Getting to know an artist enables you to share considerable insight about the artwork along with the artist’s thoughts and feelings about the actual piece you purchase.
5. Temporary Contemporary:
Artwork that isn’t properly done or is done with cheep materials by a (well meaning) amateur artist can be what I call “temporary” contemporary. The concern is that the artwork itself may not last. I have seen artwork fade, crack or even peel. Papers that become yellow and brittle. I have seen collages that have curled up or come unglued and left pieces to literally fall onto the carpeting. Fortunately as a restorer I have also worked on oil paintings by old masters that have stood the test of time and stayed in beautiful shape after hundreds of years. The reason is simple, they were properly done with quality materials by a professional artist from the onset. The solution to this problem is easy, buy quality art work, paintings and photographs and they will last for generations to come. Don’t be afraid to ask artist or gallery questions about materials.
Now that you won’t be paying too much we hope that you will visit various artists and of course we hope you will visit us at our gallery.
At the Strazza Gallery you can:
1 buy originals
2 take your time and avoid the adrenaline rush of an auction
3 buy artwork that’s timeless not trendy
4 buy directly from the photographer or artist
5 get professional work of the finest quality from individuals you can trust
The official website of original works by Artist Lisa Strazza and Photographer John Strazza www.PaintingsAndPhotography.com 845-469-5598
