table of contents
Introduction
1. Know your preferences
2. Set a purchasing budget
3. Know the artist's background
4. Choose where to buy
5. Choose a piece you can love for a long time
summary
Entering the world of art is appealing to many, but it can also feel a little intimidating. It's natural to be unsure how to choose and what criteria to use. In this article, we'll introduce five points that will help even beginners choose paintings with confidence.
1. Know your preferences
When purchasing a painting, the important thing is to find a piece that you really like. To do this, you first need to clarify your preferences. There are many ways to find a piece that suits your taste, but this time we will introduce three methods.
Visit a museum or gallery: By seeing artworks in person, you can discover what styles and colors appeal to you. Seeing real artworks allows you to experience elements such as color, texture, and scale. Also, by coming into contact with artworks from various genres and eras, you can clarify the themes and styles that appeal to you. Exhibit explanations and conversations with expert staff are also helpful. If you are a beginner, you may make new discoveries by looking at the permanent exhibitions rather than just specific exhibitions. Visiting museums will bring you closer to art and help you gain a deeper understanding of your preferences.
Research works online: The internet is a treasure trove for finding art. You can easily discover a wide variety of works from the comfort of your own home by using the official websites of museums and galleries, online art platforms, and social media. Online art markets allow you to easily search for works by genre and theme from the comfort of your own home, making it easy to delve deeper into your interests. By bookmarking and saving works that interest you, you can visually organize your tastes.
Consider themes and motifs: Try to find themes that interest you, such as nature, abstract art, or portraits. It's also important to think about what themes and motifs appeal to you. Narrowing down your subjects to ones that interest you, such as nature, cityscapes, people, or abstract shapes, will help create consistency in the works you choose. Also, being mindful of themes that connect to your daily life and values will help you feel more attached to the work. For example, if you love traveling, you might be moved by paintings of exotic landscapes, or if you love reading, paintings with a narrative may resonate with you.
The key is to trust your intuition. When you come across something you like, that's the first step to buying it.
2. Set a purchasing budget
The prices of paintings vary widely, and it can be difficult for beginners to understand the price range. By setting a budget before purchasing, you can narrow down your options and enjoy art within your budget.
Check the market price: Check the price of the artwork you are interested in at art-specialized online markets and galleries. When purchasing a painting, first check the market price of the artwork. The price of an artwork varies greatly depending on the artist's fame, the technique used, and the size. Comparing artworks of the same genre and style at galleries and online markets will help you get a good idea. Past auction results are also useful. If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with works by unknown young artists or prints. Knowing the market price will help you determine the fair price and allow you to choose with confidence.
Consider framing and shipping costs: When setting your purchase budget, don't forget to consider these additional costs in addition to the price of the artwork itself. A frame is an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the artwork, and the price varies depending on the material and design. Also, if the painting is large or requires shipping from overseas, shipping and insurance fees may be additional. Estimating these costs in advance will help you avoid unexpected expenses. The key is to understand the overall costs and leave some leeway in your budget.
Choose within your budget: If you're a beginner, it's a good idea to start with affordable pieces. There are plenty of great pieces available at affordable prices. Here are some examples:
[Title of work] colorful pallet
[Artist name] JUN
[Year of production] 2024
[Artwork orientation and size] Portrait 29.7cm x 21.0cm
[Framed] No
Description of the work:
This colorful artwork was created using alcohol ink and features a marble-like design, creating a cute divider.
The entire work is composed of bright and vivid colors, including a variety of pink, blue, green, and purple. These colors are drawn using the characteristic transparent texture of alcohol ink, creating a soft and dreamy atmosphere.
Artist details page: https://from-artist.com/collections/jun
Product details page: https://from-artist.com/products/colorful-pallet
3. Know the artist's background
Researching the artist of a work you are considering purchasing is important for deepening your understanding of the work. Learning about the background and intentions behind the work will help you to appreciate it even more.
Research the artist's background and activities: Search for information online or ask gallery staff. Finding out about the artist's background and the themes they pursue will help you understand the background and intention behind the work. The artist's official website, social media, and interview articles are useful sources of information. You can also check the exhibition history at museums and galleries. If the artist's activities resonate with your values and interests, you will likely feel more satisfied with owning their work.
Look at other works by the artist: Don't just look at one piece, but also look at other works by the artist. Comparing works from series or different themes can help you understand the artist's unique style and techniques. Galleries and online platforms often allow you to view a list of works by the same artist. Comparing past works with current works can also help you get a sense of the artist's evolution and changes. Looking at works from a broader perspective will help you understand and appreciate the work you are purchasing more deeply.
Talk directly: If possible, arrange an opportunity to speak directly with the artist. Art fairs and gallery openings are great opportunities to interact with artists. Hearing directly about the artist's thoughts and creative process may give you a new perspective on the work. Also, getting a sense of the artist's personality and passion through conversation will make you feel even more attracted to the work.
4. Choose where to buy
Where you buy from can make a big difference to your art buying experience. Each place has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose the method that works best for you.
Art Gallery: You can actually see the artworks and check the texture and color. It is also highly reliable and has expert staff who can give advice, so even beginners can feel at ease.
Online markets: The advantage is that you can easily browse and compare a variety of products from the comfort of your own home, making it easy to find something that suits your budget and style. However, the disadvantage is that you cannot see the actual product. Be sure to choose a reliable site.
Art fairs: You can see many works at once and interact directly with the artists. By learning about the thoughts that went into each piece, it becomes easier to find that special piece.
Auctions: While they offer a chance to acquire rare masterpieces at high prices, they can be a little intimidating for beginners. Online auctions are relatively easy to participate in, and you might even find some great bargains.
If you're just starting out, galleries and online markets are a great place to start.
5. Choose a piece you can cherish for a long time
Finally, when purchasing a piece, try to choose something that you can love for a long time. It's important to trust your intuition and values, rather than being swayed by trends.
Imagine it hanging in your home: When choosing a painting, it's important to imagine exactly where in your home you'll hang it. By considering the atmosphere, color, and harmony with the furniture in the room, you'll be able to find a piece you'll cherish for a long time. It's a good idea to choose an impactful piece for the living room, a soothing piece for the bedroom, or a bright and cheerful piece for the kitchen or entryway. Imagine how the piece will affect your daily life in your home, which will increase your satisfaction after purchasing.
Take your time when choosing art: Don't rush, avoid impulse purchases, and take some time to look at the work again, allowing you to make a more rational decision. Even if you are initially attracted to a piece, your impression may change after a few days. It is also effective to make a list of works you are interested in and review them several times, or visit multiple galleries and online shops to compare and consider. By taking your time when choosing, you will increase your chances of finding a piece that truly suits your tastes and lifestyle, and of finding a painting that you will cherish for a long time.
Get an expert's opinion: If you're unsure about which painting to choose, we recommend getting the opinion of an expert, such as a gallery staff member or art consultant. Professionals have detailed knowledge of the background and value of the work, as well as the characteristics of the artist, and can make suggestions that suit your tastes and budget. Consulting with an expert will help you feel more confident in your choice and ensure you end up with a piece that you can cherish for a long time.
summary
Buying a painting is a wonderful way to express yourself, and a life filled with art enriches the soul. By keeping in mind the five points introduced in this article, even beginners can choose art with confidence. First, know your preferences, set a budget, research the artist's background, and then choose a work from a trusted purchasing source. And most importantly, choose a piece that you truly enjoy. We hope you enjoy this first step into the world of art.
FROM ARTIST has approximately 600 artists from all over Japan registered, and you can view many of their works on its website. They also sell paintings, so you can enjoy them in your home as if they were in a museum.
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Written by: MIKIKO
FROM ARTIST Management staff. I write columns. I provide management support so that we can convey the appeal of artists.
Supervisor: Shoma Toida
CEO of BUSCA LLC. Head of FROM ARTIST. Started his career as a marketer, he worked for a business company and an advertising agency before going independent. He completed marketing-related programs at several graduate schools and business schools, including the University of California, Berkeley and London Business School. He also completed the MBA core curriculum at Macquarie University and studied the importance of art in education at the University of British Columbia.
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