How to Buy Paintings on Online or at Galleries / Art Fairs?

Paintings continue to be one of the most popular mediums amongst art buyers and collectors, as well as artists. In fact, for many, it is the quintessential art form.

Most major cities around the world now have one or more art fairs, dozens of dealer and galleries, and with the advent of Internet, one has an unprecedented range of works, at fingertips.

Our editors have selected a few issues to consider at the time you are evaluating a purchase of paintings.

Explore: Before purchasing an original painting, learn about the style (Impressionist, Expressionist, Minimalist, etc.) and the medium (Oil, Acrylic, Gouache, etc.) that interests you.

Budget: Decide on how much you would like to spend. It is easy to get a medium to large sized work by an emerging artist for approx $5,000 / E5,000 and as the reputation of the artist grows, the price also increases.

Discover: Read the details available on the artist. Educate yourself about the artwork that you like. Ask questions. Most quality art galleries and Websites should have experienced art consultants who would be delighted to answer any of your questions. Don’t hesitate.

Experiment: Share the artwork – If you have viewed the artwork online, email the link to a friend or to a colleague or simply send an electronic greeting with the artwork. Alternatively, if you have seen the artwork in a gallery, view it with a friend. Get the opinion of someone you trust. Try it.

Ensure: When your heart tells you this is the right piece for you, be patient. Read about the company and their Website or enquire about the gallery. Most credible Websites provide you with detailed information about themselves. See if the Website provides you with verified and secured online purchases. Read what their customers and the press have to say about them. Check if the artwork will come with an authentication that you feel comfortable with. Find out if the gallery or the Website has a returns policy that you find reasonable. When you have done your due-diligence, buy the artwork with all your heart.

Author: Allan Majotra, PicassoMio.com & PicassoMio Galleries