How to Buy Art at Art Galleries?

How to Buy Art at Art Galleries?

Several dozen galleries can be found in each of the major cities around the world; some cosmopolitan centers, like New York or London, may even have hundreds of galleries. With dozens of dealer and galleries, exhibiting artworks of different qualities and styles, selecting and buying a piece can be a daunting ordeal. Our editors have selected a few issues to consider at the time you are evaluating a purchase at an art fair.

QUALITY

The quality of artworks at art galleries and dealers varies tremendously. While certain galleries curate the exhibitions and select their artists with care, a large number of exhibitions may or may not be of any significant quality.

PRICES

Art galleries face tremendous operating costs – gallery rent, staff, advertising and marketing, and transportation of artworks, which put significant economic pressures on the small businesses. With very limited exhibition spaces – generally the wall space of the gallery and / or the area of the gallery, most galleries and dealers are required to sell a significant number of pieces to be profitable.

LONGETIVITY

Like other small or medium businesses, a large proportion of galleries close every year and most have a brief track record.

The following suggestions may assist you in making art buying decisions:

- Ask for a biography of the artist and prior sale prices (if possible)
- Ask for a brief history of the gallery – including press coverage, list of artists, etc.
- Find out what payment methods they accept.
- Research to see if the artwork is reasonably priced and the alternatives that may be available.
- See if the artworks come with a money-back return guarantee.
- Confirm whether you will receive an Invoice (which you may need for your insurance purposes) or Certificate of Authenticity.
- Take your time before rushing to a decision. It is your money and you should consider whether this is the artwork that you wish to see on your wall, day after day.

RELATED LINKS

How to Buy Art at Art Fairs?

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