Lily Okamoto

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A Beginner's Guide to Buying Original Art: Enhance Your Home with Authenticity and Style

Introduction:

Original art brings a unique character and authenticity to your home, reflecting your personal style and passions. Investing in original artwork not only supports artists but also adds a touch of individuality to your living space. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the importance of original art, how to mix and match original pieces with prints, and tips for investing in emerging artists' work without breaking the bank.

i : The Importance of Original Art in Your Home

  • Personal Connection: Original art carries the artist's emotions, ideas, and energy, creating a personal connection between the artwork and the viewer. This connection allows you to appreciate the piece on a deeper level, enriching your living space with meaning and emotion.

  • Uniqueness: Original art sets your home apart, showcasing your individual taste and style. Unlike mass-produced prints, original artwork is one-of-a-kind, providing an exclusive and distinctive touch to your interior design.

  • Supporting Artists: Purchasing original art helps support the artist's career, allowing them to continue creating and sharing their work with the world. By buying original pieces, you contribute to the growth and development of the art community.

  • Investment Value: Original art can appreciate in value over time, making it a potential long-term investment. While not all artwork will increase in value, owning original pieces by emerging artists can be a wise investment decision.

ii : Mixing Original Art with Prints

Integrating both original art and prints into your home decor can provide a balanced and diverse aesthetic. Here are some tips for successfully mixing original pieces with prints:

  • Choose a cohesive theme: To create a harmonious display, choose artwork with a common theme, color scheme, or subject matter. This will help the original pieces and prints complement each other and work together as a cohesive collection.

  • Vary sizes and formats: Combine different sizes, formats, and mediums to create visual interest and depth in your display. For example, pair a large original painting with smaller prints, or mix framed and unframed pieces.

  • Arrange thoughtfully: When arranging your artwork, consider the balance between original pieces and prints. Be mindful of how they interact with one another, and experiment with different configurations to find the perfect layout for your space.

iii : Starting with Emerging Artists' Original Art

Collecting original art by emerging artists is an excellent way to begin your journey into the world of art investment without spending a fortune. Here are some tips for finding affordable original art from emerging artists:

  • Visit local galleries and art fairs: Discover new talent by attending local art events, exhibitions, and open studios. These events often showcase works by emerging artists, offering an opportunity to find unique, affordable pieces.

  • Browse online platforms: Many websites and online galleries specialize in featuring emerging artists and their original work. Platforms like Saatchi Art, Artsy, and Artfinder provide access to a vast selection of affordable original art by up-and-coming artists.

  • Follow artists on social media: Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer a direct way to connect with emerging artists, view their latest work, and purchase original pieces directly from them. (Follow me @lilythevly 💖)

  • Commission artwork: If you have a specific vision in mind, consider commissioning an emerging artist to create a custom piece tailored to your preferences. This not only supports the artist but also ensures you receive a unique, personalized artwork.

iv : Tips for Investing in Original Art on a Budget

  • Set a budget: Determine a realistic budget for your art purchases and stick to it. This will help you narrow down your options and makeinformed decisions when selecting artwork.

  • Research the artist: Before investing in an original piece, research the artist's background, career trajectory, and previous sales. This will give you an idea of the potential value and appreciation of their work.

  • Look for limited edition prints: If you can't afford an original piece from a well-known artist, consider purchasing a limited edition print instead. These prints are more affordable than original works and often hold their value over time, especially if they come from a recognized artist.

  • Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price of an artwork with the artist or gallery. Many sellers are willing to work with buyers to find a mutually beneficial price point.

  • Consider alternative mediums: Original art doesn't have to be limited to paintings or sculptures. Consider investing in more affordable mediums, such as drawings, photographs, or digital art.

Conclusion:

Investing in original art can bring a sense of authenticity and style to your home, reflecting your personal tastes and interests. By mixing original pieces with prints, focusing on emerging artists, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can start your journey into the world of art investment without breaking the bank. Remember, the most important aspect of buying art is choosing pieces that resonate with you and bring joy to your space. It's essential to take action and begin your art collection, even if you make mistakes along the way. Embrace the learning experience and be open to taking smaller risks as you grow and refine your taste in art.