Top Tips: Buying Art
Alexandra Donaldson, the managing director of Quintessentially Art, has set up the new Patron Scheme, an annual Scheme that provides Patrons with access to exclusive events (including visits to artist studios, talks with collectors and critics and curator-led tours of new exhibitions and galleries). The Patron Scheme is perfect for those looking for an introduction to art and collecting, introducing Patrons to a wide range of styles and artists and consulting on the best way to purchase, transport, store and keep art – a complete 360 of Art 101!
Here are her top tips for buying art:
1) History of Art:
A big part of collecting contemporary art is having an understanding of what has come before. Most artworks have historical points of reference so it adds to your appreciation of the works and allows you to make associations between the old and the new.
2) Experience the Art:
Help to educate yourself around the art world and artists who appeal to you through visiting their studios, listening to a diverse group of cultural influencers discussing their stories, visiting exhibitions with a curator and attending art fairs with an unbiased art consultant.
3) Research:
Information and education is key to any successful collecting journey so you should make sure to fully research the artist before buying including checking catalogue raisonnes, monographs on artists, provenance and full documentation of the works.
4) Fall In Love:
I would always advocate buying a work that you love and want to live with on your walls everyday. This does not happen easily so be patient and view as much art as you can in order to refine your taste.
5) Post-Sale:
Many people do not consider the attention required after purchasing the work - including framing, storage, shipping and installation. There is an enormous room for error so it’s important to work with the best people in the business in order to protect the works.
Here are her top tips for buying art:
1) History of Art:
A big part of collecting contemporary art is having an understanding of what has come before. Most artworks have historical points of reference so it adds to your appreciation of the works and allows you to make associations between the old and the new.
2) Experience the Art:
Help to educate yourself around the art world and artists who appeal to you through visiting their studios, listening to a diverse group of cultural influencers discussing their stories, visiting exhibitions with a curator and attending art fairs with an unbiased art consultant.
3) Research:
Information and education is key to any successful collecting journey so you should make sure to fully research the artist before buying including checking catalogue raisonnes, monographs on artists, provenance and full documentation of the works.
4) Fall In Love:
I would always advocate buying a work that you love and want to live with on your walls everyday. This does not happen easily so be patient and view as much art as you can in order to refine your taste.
5) Post-Sale:
Many people do not consider the attention required after purchasing the work - including framing, storage, shipping and installation. There is an enormous room for error so it’s important to work with the best people in the business in order to protect the works.