How to Buy Art for Your Home
So, you've decided it's time to add some art to your space—congrats, thank god, we’re glad to hear it! Whether you're a seasoned collector or a complete newbie, the process of buying art for your home can be both exciting and daunting. The entire purpose of this company is to guide and support you in that venture, so you’re in the right place.
Start with What Speaks to You
Before diving headfirst into the world of galleries and art fairs, online art or anywhere else, take a moment to reflect on your personal tastes and preferences. What styles, colors, and themes resonate with you? Can you recall a single piece that moved you? What was it about that work? Get as specific as you can in what you like and don’t like. By identifying what speaks to you on a visceral level, you'll have a clearer sense of what to look for when browsing for art.
I don’t mean you’ll have a checklist of components to look for, but you’ll know what qualities need to be present for it to be a hell yes for you.
Set a Budget
I recommend an annual art budget, so that you can spread your purchases out or clump them into one big one. Budgets are important. But once you agree to an amount, don’t get too caught up in the pricing. The best art is not always priced accordingly, and vice versa. Price does not equal quality in the art world. IMO. It’s just wayy to subjective, artists are often the ones pricing it on their own without an understanding of market value, galleries charge a 50% commission, there are a ton of hidden factors when it comes to the pricing of art. So just trust your gut and don’t think too much about what one piece costs over another. If it’s in budget and it moves you, it’s a fantastic purchase.
Remember, you don't have to break the bank to find beautiful artwork that complements your home. I’ve bought originals for $5 that I’m totally smitten with. Also remember that you can choose to purchase a more expensive piece, to provide really powerful support to an emerging artist, to invest in the uniqueness and power of your home aesthetic.
Art budgets vary tremendously. I work with folks who have budgets of a few hundred dollars in total, and clients who have several thousand dollars to spend.
Explore Your Options
Once you have a sense of your preferences and budget, it's time to start exploring your options. Visit local galleries, attend art fairs, and browse online platforms to discover a wide range of artworks—from paintings and prints to photographs and sculptures. Keep an eye out for emerging artists who are pushing boundaries and exploring new techniques. Working with an art consultant can be incredibly beneficial at this stage, as they can provide education, support, and tailored curations based on your specific tastes and requirements. Their expertise and insights can help you navigate the art world with confidence and find pieces that truly speak to you.
I specifically support folks who are new to art collecting, empowering you to become a lifelong collector should you choose. The very beginning stages are overwhelming and complex and if you want to feel led through the process consider working with me at DLAC.
Consider the Space
There is a reason this is so far down on the list. When choosing art for your home, consider the space where it will be displayed. It’s important to take into account factors such as size, scale, and lighting to ensure that the artwork fits seamlessly into its surroundings. A large statement piece might be perfect for a spacious living room, while a series of smaller artworks could be ideal for creating a gallery wall in a hallway or stairwell.
But! Do not make this the main motive in buying art. You might move. You might buy a new couch. You could paint the walls or add wallpaper. The art you buy should be compelling and powerful on its own, and not because it’s the perfect size for your wall. Yes it matters and needs to be considered, but it should not drive your buying decisions.
Trust Your Instincts
It’s the most important thing. Buying art is a deeply personal endeavor, and there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to selecting pieces for your home. The art you buy reflects who you are, what you value, what ignites you, what moves you deep within. Trust your instincts and choose artworks that resonate with you on a profound level.
Buying art for your home is an immensely rewarding experience. Not only does it help you express your own creativity and showcase your personality, it also connects you to our broader culture. It gives you an opportunity to promote artistic excellence and support folks who are making work you believe in. Art collecting allows you to create a space that truly reflects who you are, that is authentic and unique and most importantly that you are completely obsessed with.
Did you know that I offer a free consultation? To anyone. No obligation to work with me. If you want to get into art collecting but are lost, schedule a call with me. I’m never going to pressure you into something that isn’t right for me. I genuinely believe all people should live with art, deserve to be art collectors, and have been intentionally excluded from that world. So, I want to support you no matter what your situation is.