Often the money we spend decorating our homes is, to be brutal, a waste. Once it is spent it is gone, never to be seen again. However, with a little effort and some good research, investing in art can have the double benefit of not only making your home a wonderful expression of your taste and style, but be an investment that pays off financially. The trick is to stay away from department store prints and mass produced nick knacks, and instead develop an appreciation for collecting unique pieces that are truly art.
To be successful you have to make your choices wisely. The first rule is to buy something you love. It will be something you look at and hopefully admire every day. There is no point in buying art simply because you hope to make money from it. It should be something you take pleasure in and are proud to display. Tastes change, fashions come and go, and as with most investments there is no guarantee of a huge return. However, if you love a piece, any financial appreciation will be a bonus.
Get to know local artists and gallery owners. Build up a relationship with them. It will help you to become better educated about what you are really looking for and what is available in your price range. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most gallery owners and artists are passionate about their work and will be happy to help you.
The Internet has opened countless doors for the art lover and collector. It is so much easier to source works from your favorite artist than it was only a few years ago. The opportunities it presents artists in reaching new collectors is phenomenal. Many Gallery owners who for years served mostly local collectors had to attend art shows and post glossy catalogs of their offerings. Today, with fabulous digital imagery and search engine tools, galleries and artists can reach an ever growing customer base.
Buying original art work is a wonderful thrill, but the most sought after artists often command incredibly high prices. This is a fantastic opportunity if it is within your price range, the financial returns can be substantial, and the joy of owning an original art piece is obviously thrilling. However, for the smaller budget, consider a signed limited edition print. If you choose your artist and your piece wisely you can make a significant profit over time.
Once you have settled upon an artist to invest in and whose works you would like to collect, the Internet offers a great way to find the perfect piece. Always double check sizes, if you are having it shipped and pay for the additional insurance to make sure you are covered for any damage during shipping. Always check the condition of the piece as soon as it arrives.
Framing of original art work or investment pieces has to be done professionally. If you buy an unframed piece make sure you have it framed by a reputable and experienced company to ensure that the integrity and value of the piece is retained. Think carefully about where you will display the piece and of any potential hazards, such as direct sunlight or excessive moisture. In order to have any chance of a financial return it is essential that you maintain your art work correctly.
Insuring your art collection is essential. Keep track of any increase in the values of your pieces. The last thing you need is to be under insured if the pieces are damaged or lost. If you are fortunate, and have made some good choices, there may come a time when the value of your art collection means that it makes more sense for you to sell it and realize your profits. Don’t be sad, you have achieved what most investors strive for. You have enjoyed the beauty of the art and made a handsome profit.
If you simply can’t live without the piece, and it is a painting that is available as a print, consider selling the original and replacing it in your collection with a print so you can still take some enjoyment from it. Take your profit, find a new up and coming artist and see if you can hit the Jackpot again.