Tips - Collecting Paintings

This page is meant to be a brief guide that will give some advice on what to consider when you purchase art works - in particular paintings, whether you are a casual buyer or a more serious collector. There are no fixed rules when buying art works, but it may be wise to consider some advice in the process.

1.The first advice is simple – buy what you like!

This may sound obvious, but you will not want to live with a piece of art work which you do not really like, but perhaps bought because it was cheap, because your friend persuaded you, or for some other reason. Though some people collect art solely for investment purposes, most experts agree that the best way to invest is to buy something you love. That way, whether it appreciates in value or not is immaterial; the pleasure of its company will be enough.

2.Choosing Artists

Well recognized and professional artists normally fulfill these three criteria: (1) Technically skilled, (2) Original (and recognizable) style, (3) Innovative works, often conceptual. Do not choose paintings only on the basis that s/he happens to be ‘famous’. There are many excellent artists who are not well known, but their works may be highly inspiring, innovative or beautiful.

An important 'stamp of approval' is museum quality, i.e. that works by the artists are found in museum collections. Museums only focus on quality, without considering the commercial value. Many of the artists represented by Thavibu Gallery have works in museum collections - see Table below.

 

 

3. Selecting Paintings

Consider several factors, such as execution, subject matter, form, colours, media/materials, and composition of the painting.  All artists produce works of varying quality – some may be masterpieces, but many are often of more ordinary quality.  Also, artists do not necessarily produce better works when they get older.  Consult a trusted art professional/gallery for advice.  Pay careful attention to authenticity and provenance of the art works.  Copies and forgeries have unfortunately become commonplace in countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, China and India, to mention a few.

4.Buying for Investment

Seek professional guidance from trusted sources, such as reputable art galleries, art consultants or auction houses.  Museum quality(see above) is an important factor to consider.  Other factors that come into play is limited supply and to consider if works by the artists are traded at international auctions.  An updated list of artists represented by Thavibu Gallery whose works are sold at international auctions is found here.  Two rather distinct groups of contemporary artists may have works worth investing in.  The first group consists of well established, often senior ('blue chip') artists, while the other group consists of younger, upcoming, often 'fashionable' artists.  Prices for works by the latter group may reach high peaks, though it is likely that works by artists in the first group will have more lasting value over a period of time. Additional information on choosing art works for investment can be found at Jack Biddington's Art Collection Series. For serious investors, the Mei Moses Fine Art Index may prove valuable.

5. Building a Collection

If you are buying more than a couple of paintings, you are on the way to become a collector.  Some are more serious than others, and some are willing to spend more money.  It is not necessary though, to be rich to build a limited collection of paintings that one can be proud of.  The most important thing to keep in mind is to have a focus.  Some ideas about areas of focus can be e.g.:

Country or artist specific
Nudes/Erotic
Abstract works
Lacquer Paintings
Portraiture 
Landscapes
Monks and Nuns
Black & White
 And so on………..

Spend some time visiting museums, galleries, auction houses and dealers to get a feel for what's out there. Take note of what catches your eye and why. Join local museums, and take classes to help you develop your eye.  Feel free to discuss the above issues with your gallery or art professional.  He views giving professional advice an essential part of his work. 

Jorn Middelborg (Thavibu Gallery)
info@thavibu.com