Tips for first time art buyers.  

• How do I know that the art I want to purchase will increase its value?

As with most items, the value of art will be affected by supply and demand. In addition, the value of art will increase if the artist has had any formal recognition either by scholars or museums or through marketing efforts (i.e. exposure resulting from exhibitions, publicity, popularity, image recognition). An original work of art will always be more valuable than its reproduction.

• How do I go about choosing a painting or a sculpture?

Always keep in mind there is no right or wrong when selecting art. The most important factor when purchasing art is your personal connection – it may be the colors, the theme, or simply a reminder of a special moment or place. Do not buy a piece simply because it is “trendy.” If it reflects your personality and style, buy it.

• What is an original print? What is a limited edition print?

An original print is a work of art created by hand and printed by the artist using a plate, block, stone, or stencil. The print has been created for the sole purpose of producing a desirable image. An original print is usually printed in small quantities for the simple reason that a limited number can be “pulled” from the plates before physical wear and tear of the printing process.

Original prints can also be produced by the artist using their own digital or photographic copies of the original. They may then hand paint, draw or add a unique “touch” to each print.

A limited edition print may or may not be an original work of art. It might be a photomechanical reproduction of a painting, photograph, drawing, etc. Commercial publishing companies usually produce these prints. The only thing “original” about these limited edition prints is the artist’s hand-applied signature.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

• My husband is tall and I'm “petite”. We argue about how high to hang pictures. What is correct?

The general rule is the center of the picture should be hung at 60 inches. The average person’s height is 5’ 5”, and 60” is eye level to that sized person. If the picture is hung over a sofa or sideboard, you may want to lower it somewhat. If it is on a very tall wall, maybe raise a little.

• What is the easiest way to hang a picture?

Once you've found the position you want to hang the picture, mark the top and center of the picture on the wall. Then, measure the distance from the top of the frame to the top of the hanging wire, pulled taut. Transfer that measurement to the mark on the wall, and that's where you should place the wall hooks. You should hang pictures by two hooks, both to help support the weight of the picture and to help keep it level.

• How do I arrange a grouping of framed prints and other wall art?

If you’re hanging several items as a group, try arranging them first on the floor in front of the wall. Another technique is to cut paper patterns on the frames and tape them to the wall. Start with the biggest picture and work your way out with small pictures until you have an arrangement you like.

• When selecting framing, sometimes I'm asked if I want paper mats or acid free mats. What is the difference?

A paper mat is generally buffered on the exterior by acid-free paper, but the interior core of the mat contains paper that is acidic. Over time, the core will turn brown (much like newspaper does as it ages). The acid in the core will eventually work its way to the art and damage it. An acid-free mat by comparison will not harm the art.

Paper mats are less expensive than acid-free mats. They are, however, acceptable to use on posters or items which longevity is not a concern.