What to Look for When Buying Original Artwork

Have you ever wanted to fill your walls with a gorgeous painting but didn’t know how to begin your relationship with the art world? Perhaps you're a seasoned collector, all ready to add the shining star to your collection. Well, my name is Julia, and I’m here to show you how to pick an original painting wisely. 

Getting Started: Overcoming Intimidation

For many beginners, learning where to go and what to buy can be very overwhelming. What exactly are the first steps you need to know?

One of the first things—and a piece of advice— don’t be intimidated. There’s a lot of information. Don’t be shy. Visit any gallery, they are open to the public, so come in, pay attention, draw from it what you will, and leave if it doesn’t grab your attention.

Choose What You Love

So, what would be the key piece of advice before someone buys that first piece of original artwork? Should you focus on your taste, or should you take into consideration the investment value or resale value down the road? What should people be thinking about?

My advice for someone starting is to collect what you love. And that means learning. Developing an eye for art style and visual art is like with literature or music. The more you know, the more you'll be able to see and understand. 

What to Look for When Buying Original Artwork: Understanding the Art

Authenticity 

• Ensure the artwork is genuine, especially when buying online.
• Look for a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) to confirm the piece’s legitimacy and history.
• A COA provides peace of mind and adds to the artwork’s value.

Reputation Matters

• Support local galleries, websites and artists with a solid reputation.
• Buying from reputable websites means investing in an artist’s career and future potential.
• Choose artists whose reputation aligns with your values and taste.

Quality Over Quantity

• Examine the material quality and craftsmanship of the artwork.
• High-quality materials enhance the artwork’s appearance and ensure longevity.
• Consider the dedication of the artist to their craft when evaluating abstract wall art, custom wall art, or large canvas wall art.

Personal Connection and Style

• Choose artwork that resonates with you.
• The piece should reflect your art style and fit seamlessly into your space.
• Visiting galleries in person or online, helps you connect with the pieces that speak to you.

Investment Potential

• Consider the artist’s career trajectory for investment purposes.
• Emerging artists with a growing reputation can increase the value of your collection.
• The best investment is one that brings you joy every day.

Commissioned Pieces: How They Work

What about commissioned pieces? Do collectors often want to meet an artist and perhaps collaborate on something in the future? Or is that not really how it works?

Collaboration may not happen often, as the artist typically has their vision, and a seasoned collector will want to respect that. However, if there’s a particular person with a new outdoor space, for instance, they might be interested in an outdoor sculpture. 

This could be an opportunity to approach an artist they trust and admire, asking them to create something in a new context or material. This can certainly be a ripe situation for a commissioned piece.

Closing Thoughts

Buying an original artwork is not just about finding a beautiful piece; it's about connecting with the art, understanding the artist's vision, and making an investment that will bring joy that will last forever. Whether you're drawn to abstract wall art, custom wall art, or large canvas wall art, always look for authenticity, reputation, material quality, and your connection to the piece. By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be well on your way to building a collection that reflects your taste and stands the test of time.

Ready to find your next masterpiece? Visit Julia Contacessi's website today to explore stunning original artwork for sale and a wide range of abstract art prints. Discover a piece that resonates with your style and investment goals.