At the Easel

 
One of the organizations I belong to is Canvas and  Clay,  Artists, Ltd.  At a recent meeting, our discussion turned to collecting, and why some people buy original paintings, while others own reproductions.

At one time or another, most people have seen an original artwork they wanted to buy.  Have you ever stood before a painting or bronze sculpture, and said to yourself  "Oh, I would love to have this!  It's wonderful. I have the perfect place for it!"  Did you then rationalize and talk yourself out of it? As you walked away, did you say to yourself  "Forget it!  I can't spend that much money on a piece of art"?

Consider this.  I believe that collecting fine art is absolutely no different from any other purchase you choose to make.  It is merely a matter of personal priorities.  I have frequently observed that the same person who adamantly declares they cannot afford original art, will then go and buy a new boat, motorcycle, big screen television/entertainment center, wardrobe, take a European cruise, or go on a hunting trip......and that list goes on and on.

No, I think it has to do with our priorities in life.  Certainly that is why people keep a savings account, or draw up a budget.  They want to purchase that "something special".  In view of this, next time you see a piece of art you think you can't live without, then ask yourself some questions.  Why CAN'T you justify this purchase? Is it REALLY out of your reach?  If you love it that much, then maybe you should go to "Plan B"!  Put off that vacation for awhile?  Buy those new dresses later in the year?  Do you have to buy that new car right now, particularly since the present one is in perfectly good condition?

What people fail to realize is that a painting or sculpture may be quite valuable some day.  Of all the ways listed above to use your money, the ONLY ONE that can increase in monetary value over time is fine art.  With this in mind, one should never feel guilty about spending hard earned money on original artwork.  Now, you may be thinking that collecting fine art is for people who have a lot of money.  This is a common misconception.  You do not have to be a millionaire to have a valuable collection!  There are many artists whose works are affordable and of the highest quality. Their work may one day be worth more than you could imagine.  True, it may be many years down the road, but a collection of great art pieces which can be given to children or grandchildren is a priceless gift.

Here are some thoughts and suggestions from the Canvas and Clay, Artists Ltd., for beginning art collectors:

1. Most importantly, buy what you personally love.  Don't collect art for the sole reason that it  may be valuable some day.  You will want to enjoy it as much in ten years as you do on the day  you take it home.

2. Visit art galleries, artist's studios, and attend shows.  Talk with the artists and gallery owners.  Spend time in museums.  Read books and magazines about art.  Learn to understand basic "artist talk" such as color theory, shapes, edges, values and composition.  Don't just view the artwork as a whole piece.  For example, a landscape painting with horses grazing peacefully in early morning light.  Look closely at AREAS of the painting, too.  Ask yourself questions, such as "What is it about this painting that is so appealing to me?  Why can I not get it off my mind? Is it the colors, the subject(s), the brush strokes, the medium it's painted in?  Does it evoke certain feelings or emotions within me?"   

3. Create a special "haven" within your home.  One that you can't wait to come back to at the end of a stress filled day.  Always place your art in areas which you use the most.  Areas that are well loved and comfortable.  Fix a favorite beverage, and, as the old saying goes "pull up a chair and sit a spell."  Art is many things to many people.  It can be soothing and restful, or stimulating and exciting.  A painting may bring to mind wonderful memories.  A childhood  experience, a loving animal companion who shared its life with you, landscapes reminiscent of a favorite vacation place, or a warm and sunny garden scene to enjoy during the bleak days of winter.