Take a walk through your home and look at the walls. What is on them? Do you have artwork hanging there? Most people do. They have pictures that they have purchased and often times photos of family and friends, too. But, does the artwork speak to you? Is it something you found in a gallery or studio that haunted you to purchase it, or is it something that was picked up quickly at a discount retailer to fill the empty space on the wall?
I believe the artwork in one’s home should be a reflection of the personalities of the occupants. The artwork should tell a story through the way it reached out and touched an emotion in the purchaser. Even if the artwork was a gift, it is often from a dear friend that prompts fond memories whenever it is seen across the room. Photos of family members showcase the lives of one’s ancestors and current family and also tell a story of our lives.
While I tend to believe all artwork should be original, I don’t believe it has to be expensive. Just like beauty, the value of the artwork is in the eye of the beholder – or in this case owner of the piece. The emotional attachment one has for the piece is the true measure of its worth.
I was recently asked by a client about my thoughts on the value of a piece he was considering purchasing. As I do not really deal in what one would consider investment-grade art, here are the three rules that I tend to follow when considering making a purchase:
- Do I like it?
- Is it in my budget?
- Do I have a place to put it? I cannot tell you how many times I have fallen in love with a piece and quickly realized there was no room nor wall in either my home or office large enough to display it!
Additionally, as I go to galleries and studios often I have come to learn what I consider good and poor techniques. I have seen artwork that based upon the technique seemed both over and underpriced compared with other pieces of the same size, media, and subject matter. Again, this is all very subjective and if the piece speaks to you, is in your budget, then by all means snatch it up and take it home! Don’t let it be, “…the one that got away!”
Artwork by Kent Curtis Weakley – (@kentcurtis_art)
