Latest posts by michael wilson (see all)
- JORDAN RIVER - February 5, 2019
- Inspired Art - August 2, 2018
- Waiting for Inspiration - July 31, 2018
- The Bridge between Painting and Photography - July 31, 2018
Where do you find truly accomplished oil paintings for sale? There are essentially four good arenas to buy excellent paintings. I would recommend first to look for local galleries. Most galleries are on the prowl for up and coming artists so it is very possible to find quality work, often at reasonable prices. The larger the City the better the art, as a rule but the prices will of course go up. Remember that a gallery skims 30 – 60% off the sale for commission. This is why the internet can be a good second alternative – even sites like Etsy where you will truly find bargain pricing. Caution is needed here because many ’emerging’ artists are not yet established, their style of painting is not yet grounded and it is likely you will be buying art that may not increase much in value (unless you get lucky). However you are probably looking for something that appeals to you personally – increasing value is not the priority.
Third are web sites where artists are displaying their own work. This is an interesting niche because artists who have taken the time to create their own website are usually serious about their work. These are artists who are typically established and instead of handing over a large commission to a gallery, choose to market their paintings direct. It is relatively easy to search the internet until you find an artist you like just by typing in the ‘search bar’. There is a new fourth way to purchase art because the large, successful art auction houses are now making sales on line. If you are a serious art investor this is a new and convenient breakthrough to bid on art from the masters. These kinds of purchases are truly investments – much like buying valuable real estate.
Whatever art you purchase, remember a painting requires professional lighting when it is hung in your home or office. Proper lighting will enhance your purchase, revealing all of the subtle nuances the artist has intended to portray. Also scale is a consideration – insure that your painting is in proper scale to the wall and room. A large wall will dwarf a small painting.
My feelings are that top galleries ‘drive’ recognition and prices in the art world. Too many newly rich have no idea what they’re doing so they need hand holding. ‘Investors’ in art go for galleries because they are the gatekeepers and promoters.
Art that you appreciate on your own and works on your wall, sure go with your gut. It’s easier on the pocket and works aesthetically.