Affordable Art - Top 10 tips

Monday, 09 February 2009 01:01

The artworld defines "affordable art" as anything selling at less than £5000. This definition of "affordable" may be a little ridiculous for most people. Even "affordable Art" fairs are out of the reach of many people. I define "affordable art" more realistically as something you can afford without having to take out a second mortgage or sell your car and/or children. 

 

So how can you buy art that moves you without penury? 

1. Look at the work of Artist Printmakers. 
   Creating an edition of prints often means that a numbered print is often nowhere near as expensive as a single one-off artwork and editions are often small. Each print, although one of an edition, is a unique, one off piece, hand made by the Artist. Often, surprisingly a hand printed, editioned image is cheaper than a mass produced print from a HIgh Street Gallery.
2. Buy direct from the Artist. 
   If you like a particular persons work get your name on their mailing list or that of the Gallery where their work is displayed. Chat to the Artist. An Artist who knows you are a supporter may be able to offer you something extra when you are buying. You will also have the satisfaction of knowing a little more about the work and the person who created it which always makes a piece of art a little more special. Buying the work unframed can also save you some money.
3. Look for up and coming Artists. 
   Artists prices rise with their profile. Look out for fresh Artists online and at outlets such as Degree Shows at Universities and Art Colleges.Theres always the possibility of finding a young artist who will become a real star in the future. Damian Hirst had to start somewhere.
4. Check out Etsy.com for some great affordale art. There's some amazing talent out there.
5. Look on Ebay.co.uk. Although the quality is hugely varied there are a few artists who sell wonderful hand printed Art at great prices. It may take a bit of tracking down but the chase is part of the fun. 
6. Buy art that gives you a gut reaction.
   Dont let art world snobbery or fashion sway you on what you should and shouldn't like. Artworld prices are inflated by good marketing. It doesnt necessarily mean that work that costs £10,000 is better than work that costs £100. Just that the marketing is better for the more expensive piece.  If you love it and can afford it, BUY IT.
7. Exhibitions with a varying group of Artists are a great place to start. Local Exhibitions such as "Art in The Barn" have a wide variety of Artists work on display and prices are often less than £100. Support your local Artists and save money along the way.
8. Get to know your favourite Gallery. If they know the style and price range that you are looking within they may be able to let you know when something that you would like becomes available.
9. Buy Art online. There are many Artists who never show their work in a gallery but have work available to buy online. Performing a Google search for "buy Art" will bring up a myriad of online art galleries selling work, often at very affordable prices. You can also use Google to track down the personal websites of Artists selling their work online
10. Visit my online shop - Where I sell my art work at affordable prices. ;-)

I hope you have found this list useful. Remember - If you love it and can afford it - BUY IT