Buy Art You Love

Buy Art You Love

How to Buy Art You Love:
A Collector's Guide to Finding Perfect Pieces 

Inside the Studio of Goran Go Edition Nr.25

Join me as we unravel the mysteries of the art world, sprinkle in some insider tips, and arm you with the confidence to proclaim, “Yes, THIS is the one!”

With over three decades of experience as a professional artist in the fine arts domain, I’m excited to share my knowledge and insights with you.


This comprehensive guide will walk you through the exhilarating process of buying art that you’ll cherish for years to come. Discover how to read art listings, understand pricing, beautifully place artwork in your home, and connect emotionally with pieces that resonate with you.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced collector, this article is your key to making informed and inspired decisions on your art-buying journey.

Content Summary

This guide covers essential topics to help you buy art you love:

Understanding Art Listings: Learn about key elements like dimensions, packaging, and artist background.
Placing Your Art: Tips on creating the perfect display, focusing on size, proportion, and orientation.
Emotional Connection: Discover how to choose art that resonates with you personally.
Conclusion: Get ready to embark on your art collecting journey with confidence.

    Table of Contents

    1. Understanding Art Listings: Key Elements to Consider
    2. Placing Your Art: Creating the Perfect Display
    3. Emotional Connection: Choosing Art That Resonates
    4. Conclusion: Embark on Your Art Collecting Journey

    Understanding Art Listings: Key Elements to Consider

    When buying art online, understanding the details in art listings is crucial. These details help you make informed decisions and ensure the art fits your needs and preferences. Here are some key elements to consider:

    Artwork Dimensions: Visualizing the Perfect Fit

    Before falling in love with a piece, consider its size to ensure it fits well in your space.

    • Measure Your Available Wall Space:
      • Assess Your Space: Start by measuring the area where you plan to hang the artwork. Consider the width, height, and any furniture or fixtures nearby that might affect placement.
      • Determine Ideal Size: Think about how large or small you want the artwork to be relative to the available space. A balanced size can enhance the room's overall aesthetics.

    • Compare It to the Artwork's Dimensions:
      • Check Dimensions in Listing: Carefully read the art listing to find the dimensions of the piece. Ensure it matches your space requirements.
      • Scale and Proportion: Consider how the artwork's size will affect the balance and proportion of the room. A piece that's too large or too small can disrupt the visual harmony.

    • Use a Measuring Tape to Visualize the Piece in Your Room:
      • Simulate Placement: Use a measuring tape to outline the dimensions on your wall. This visual aid helps you understand how the artwork will fit and look in the actual space.
      • Adjust and Reassess: If possible, use painter's tape to mark the outline and live with it for a few days to see if it feels right.

    • Consider How the Size Impacts the Room's Overall Feel:
      • Visual Impact: Think about how the size of the artwork affects the room's atmosphere. Large pieces can create a focal point, while smaller works might add subtle elegance.
      • Spatial Perception: Larger artworks can make a room feel more intimate, while smaller pieces can make it feel more expansive.

    Packaging Details: From Artist to Your Home

    Understanding the packaging information is essential for preparing for delivery and potential additional steps.

    • Tube Packaging: Requires Framing After Arrival:
      • Cost Considerations: Be aware that tube-packaged artwork often requires additional framing, which can add to the overall cost.
      • Protection and Handling: Ensure you have the means to frame the artwork properly to protect it and display it as intended.

    • Box or Crate: Usually Ready to Hang:
      • Ease of Display: Artwork delivered in a box or crate is typically ready to hang, saving you time and effort in preparation.
      • Examine Upon Arrival: Check the packaging for any damage during transit and inspect the artwork as soon as it arrives.

    • Plan for Additional Steps or Costs:
      • Budgeting: Consider potential extra costs such as framing or installation. Plan your budget accordingly to avoid surprises.
      • Time Management: Factor in the time needed for any additional steps before the artwork can be displayed.

    Artist Background: Connecting with the Creator

    Delving into the artist's background can enhance your appreciation and connection with the piece.

    • Read the Artwork Description Thoroughly:
      • Understand the Context: Pay attention to the details provided in the description. This can include the artist's inspiration, materials used, and the story behind the piece.
      • Appreciate the Narrative: Knowing the context can deepen your appreciation and create a more personal connection with the art.

    • Explore the Artist's Profile and Portfolio:
      • Discover More Works: Check out other works by the artist to understand their style and evolution. This can also help you discover pieces that resonate with you.
      • Assess Consistency and Growth: Look for patterns or changes in the artist's work that might indicate their development or shifts in focus.

    • Note the Artist's Location and Influences:
      • Cultural Context: The artist's location and cultural background can provide insight into their influences and artistic perspective.
      • Inspirational Sources: Understanding the influences behind the art can give you a richer interpretation and appreciation of the piece.

    • Consider How Their Background Adds Value to the Piece:
      • Unique Perspectives: An artist's unique background can add layers of meaning and value to the artwork, enhancing its appeal and significance.
      • Potential Investment: Consider how the artist's reputation and history might impact the piece's long-term value, especially if you're looking for art as an investment.

    Pricing and Negotiation: Making Art Affordable

    Understanding the cost structure and negotiation options is crucial for making art purchases more affordable.

    • Check if Shipping is Included in the Price:
      • Clarify Costs: Determine whether shipping costs are included in the listed price to avoid unexpected expenses.
      • Compare Options: Look at different sellers or platforms to find the best shipping deals or free shipping offers.

    • Be Aware of Potential Taxes Based on Your Location:
      • Tax Obligations: Research any applicable taxes or duties based on your location. This ensures that you understand the total cost of the purchase.
      • Import Duties: If buying from international sellers, consider potential import duties or customs fees.

    • Use Shopping Cart Features to Calculate Total Costs:
      • Final Price Check: Use the shopping cart to view the total cost, including taxes and shipping, before completing your purchase.
      • Budget Planning: Ensure that the total cost aligns with your budget and financial plans.

    • Consider Making an Offer (Around 80% of Asking Price is Often Acceptable):
      • Negotiation Strategy: Some platforms allow for price negotiation. Consider making a reasonable offer, typically around 80% of the asking price.
      • Flexible Pricing: Understand that prices can often be flexible, especially for emerging artists or independent sellers.

    Placing Your Art: Creating the Perfect Display

    Once you've selected your art, finding the perfect spot to display it in your home is crucial for enhancing the aesthetic appeal and atmosphere of your space. Here are some essential considerations and guidelines to help you achieve the ideal placement.

    Size and Proportion: Balancing Your Space

    Understanding the relationship between the size of the artwork and the space it occupies is key to creating a balanced and harmonious environment.

    • Fill 2/3 to 3/4 of Available Wall Space:
      • Proportionate Placement: Aim to fill between two-thirds to three-fourths of the wall space with your artwork. This proportion helps create a sense of balance and prevents the art from appearing either too small or overwhelming within the room.
      • Visual Harmony: By maintaining this ratio, you ensure that the artwork complements the surrounding elements without dominating or disappearing into the background.

    • Art Above Furniture:
      • Maintain Proportion: When placing art above furniture such as sofas or console tables, apply the same 2/3 to 3/4 rule. The artwork should align with the width of the furniture to create a cohesive look.
      • Eye Level Placement: Hang the artwork at eye level, approximately 57 to 60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece. This helps create a natural and comfortable viewing experience.

    • Choosing Larger Pieces:
      • Make a Statement: If you're uncertain about the size, opt for larger pieces. Bigger artworks tend to make a bold statement and can serve as a focal point in the room.
      • Impactful Presence: Larger pieces can anchor a space, drawing attention and adding visual weight to your interior design.

    • Consider Room Perception:
      • Space Perception: Be mindful of how the artwork's size can affect the perception of the room. Larger artworks can make small rooms feel more intimate, while smaller pieces might open up larger spaces.

    Orientation Matters: Vertical vs. Horizontal Impact

    The orientation of your artwork can greatly influence the perception of space
    and the mood of the room.

    • Vertical Pieces:
      • Ceiling Height Illusion: Vertical artworks can create the illusion of higher ceilings, making a room feel more spacious and airy.
      • Elegant Focus: Use vertical pieces in narrow spaces or hallways to draw the eye upward and enhance the architectural features of your home.

    • Horizontal Works:
      • Widening Effect: Horizontal pieces can visually widen a room, creating a sense of expansiveness and openness.
      • Calming Influence: Horizontal art can evoke a sense of calm and tranquility, making them suitable for areas where relaxation is desired, such as bedrooms or living rooms.

    • Matching Orientation to Room Needs:
      • Complementary Design: Consider the existing layout and design of the room when selecting the orientation of your art. Match the orientation to enhance or balance the room's proportions.
      • Purposeful Arrangement: Use the orientation of the artwork to guide the flow of movement and attention within the space, reinforcing the room's functional and aesthetic goals.

    Additional Tips for Art Placement:

    • Lighting Considerations: Proper lighting can enhance the visual impact of your art. Consider using spotlights, picture lights, or natural light to highlight the artwork's features and colors.

    • Grouping and Arrangements: For a gallery wall or collection of smaller pieces, ensure consistent spacing and alignment to maintain visual harmony.

    • Personal Connection: Always consider how the placement of art aligns with your personal style and the emotional resonance you wish to create in the space.

    By thoughtfully considering these factors, you can ensure that your art not only complements your home's design but also enriches your living environment with beauty and meaning.

    Emotional Connection: Choosing Art That Resonates

    Selecting art that resonates on a personal level is an integral part of the art-buying process. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about finding pieces that speak to you and evoke an emotional response. Here are some insights to help you choose art that aligns with your emotions and personal style.

    Trust Your Initial Reaction

    Your first instinct can be a powerful indicator of the emotional connection you have with a piece of art.

    • Immediate Attraction:
      • Listen to Your Gut: When you encounter a piece of art, pay attention to your initial reaction. Pieces that immediately draw your attention often have a deeper connection with your subconscious preferences and tastes.
      • Emotional Resonance: Consider why certain artworks evoke strong emotions. It might be the colors, the subject matter, or even the memories it stirs.

    • Reflect on Emotional Impact:
      • Analyze Your Feelings: Take a moment to reflect on why a piece speaks to you. Is it the mood it sets, the story it tells, or the feelings it evokes? Understanding this can help you choose art that you will continue to appreciate over time.
      • Personal Significance: Look for elements within the artwork that resonate with your personal experiences or aspirations.

    Align with Your Personal Style

    Choosing art that complements your existing decor and aesthetic preferences is essential for creating a harmonious living space.

    • Reflect on Existing Decor:
      • Consistent Aesthetic: Consider your current decor style when selecting art. Whether your home is modern, traditional, or eclectic, choose pieces that will enhance the existing aesthetic rather than clash with it.
      • Color Coordination: Look for artworks that incorporate colors found in your home. This can create a cohesive look and feel.

    • Enhance Your Space:
      • Complementary Artworks: Choose art that not only aligns with your personal style but also enhances and elevates your space. Art should add to the ambiance and character of your home.
      • Create Focal Points: Use art to create focal points in your rooms, drawing attention and adding visual interest.

    Invest in Artistic Growth

    Investing in art is not just about the present; it's about anticipating how your taste and style might evolve over time.

    • Challenge and Inspire:
      • Push Your Boundaries: Select pieces that challenge your current tastes or that you find intellectually or emotionally stimulating. Art that provokes thought or emotion can enrich your life and broaden your perspective.
      • Encourage Exploration: Consider art that introduces you to new styles, cultures, or ideas. This can inspire growth and development in your artistic appreciation.

    • Consider Future Preferences:
      • Evolution of Taste: Reflect on how your preferences have changed in the past and how they might continue to evolve. Choose art that will remain meaningful as your tastes mature.
      • Long-Term Enjoyment: Look for timeless pieces that you anticipate enjoying for many years, rather than trends that might fade quickly.

    Additional Tips for Emotional Art Selection:

    • Personal Connection: Art should resonate with your personality and personal experiences. Choose pieces that reflect who you are and what you value.

    • Story and Meaning: Consider the story or meaning behind the artwork. Knowing the artist's intention or the history of the piece can deepen your appreciation.

    • Intuition and Instinct: Ultimately, trust your intuition and instincts when selecting art. Choose pieces that you feel a genuine connection to, rather than what you think you should like.

    By focusing on emotional resonance, personal style, and artistic growth, you can build a collection of art that not only beautifies your home but also enriches your life.

    Conclusion: Embark on Your Art Collecting Journey

    Buying art is not just a transaction; it’s a deeply personal and rewarding journey. By understanding listings, thoughtfully considering placement, and forging an emotional connection with each piece, you’re well on your way to curating a collection that resonates with your soul.

    Remember, every artwork you choose is a step in your unique collecting adventure. Embrace the thrill of discovery and let your personality shine through in your selections.

    I hope the insights shared here will broaden your horizons and deepen your understanding of the art-collecting process, helping you build an amazing collection that you’ll be proud of.

    Thank you for your time and support.
    Gorango

    Back to blog