Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Enhancing the Experience

The following article appeared in Muse magazine.
 
 "First Hour"  patina/bronze panel   22x32   artist: Nathan Fischer

Enhancing the Experience - 5 Tips on Collecting Art
There are no absolute rules on acquiring original fine art, which is why the process can be both exhilarating and daunting. Whether you are seasoned collector or an artistic neophyte – the following suggestions will help make the process more enjoyable and ultimately lead you to a personal collection that reflects your unique style.

1. LOVE IT - I always recommend th
at clients make their choices based on what they like, and not what they assume they should like. It is perfectly acceptable to purchase a piece because it fits the décor. You’ve surrounded yourself with that interior for a reason – you feel good about it(or at least you should). Just make sure you have a connection to the artwork beyond “it matches the settee”.

2. TRY IT OUT - If you find a piece you like but want to be positive it will work in your space, ask to take it home and live with it for a few days. It’s important to see the art in your environment. This way, you can experience it in all types of light, make sure it suits your space and confirm you want it to become part of your collection.

3. EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS – One of the greatest joys is finding a piece that a client loves that they wouldn’t have previously considered due to content, color etc. We can put blinders on sometimes. If you allow yourself to consider more challenging pieces - even if you don’t opt for them - you will have at least opened yourself to aesthetic growth.

4. BE ORIGINAL, HANG ORIGINALS
Connoisseurship and confidence comes from living with original pieces. You are more likely to develop discerning taste and appreciate the nuances of your collection, if you can see the artist’s hand in creating the work.

5. MILESTONES
A fantastic way to start your collection is to purchase a work of art in honor of a special event. I have clients that acquire an original each year to commemorate their anniversary. Not only have they amassed a terrific collection, each piece coincides with a certain period in their lives.

6. FOLLOW YOUR ARTIST
One of the many pleasures of owning art is tracking the artist’s career. I suggest keeping a file with receipts and show cards and have the gallery update you on articles about the artist. Also attend their future exhibitions – it is fun to watch their progression, and it is a great way to meet people with similar tastes and aesthetics.
Diana Cook is a fine art consultant and owner of Diana Ferrone Gallery in Laguna Beach. The gallery specializes in original contemporary fine art. Visit the gallery website DianaFerrone.com

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