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The
Irish art scene has changed dramatically over the last
ten years. With the emergence of new galleries, a new
generation of auctioneers, and a multitude of art
festivals and events throughout the country, the
public at large is now spoilt for choice when it comes
to buying art.
Different
people buy art for different reasons: individuals or
companies might want to start a collection for
investment purposes, for the sake of collecting per
se, or simply to decorate their home or business
premises. In my experience, it is often a combination
of those elements. In any case, one does not like the
idea of spending a thousand euros on a piece that
might depreciate and the idea that it might appreciate
in time is certainly a good incentive;- ). People
often ask me whether the artist whose work they
contemplate buying from me is a good investment. I
usually answer them by encouraging them to look at the
facts, i.e. the art education and career of the
artist, galleries where they have exhibited, awards or
commissions that they have received, press coverage
and reviews by art critics, etc. I try to stay away
from gallery "jargon" but I always endeavour
to give my customers all the information and knowledge
I have on the artists and their work. I do give my
opinion which is an informed opinion, nothing more,
nothing less.
To
quote artist and gallery owner Gerald Davis:
Whatever
you are buying, whether it is ten euro or ten
thousand, if it is for investment or for pleasure:
first and foremost, YOU must like it. When it comes to
buying art the old cliché is as good a rule as any:
"I may not know much about art but I know what I
like".
Indeed,
buy what you like but "do your homework":
-
Don't just buy who you like, remember that artists
(even the best ones) do not always produce top quality
work. A good art dealer should always get the
best works for his customers...
- Beware of speculation
and hype. Words such as "internationally
known artist xxx" should be taken with caution.
When travelling, do buy art magazines in the countries
you are visiting and check their international art
sections or their coverage of international art fairs
(not all art events or biennale should be considered
seriously, some of them being just vanity shows...).
Also, fashion is the enemy of art.
Don't get carried away by the media hype
surrounding a particular artist. Read as much as
possible about art but always check the source of
the information. Vested interest exists in all
businesses and art is no exception.
-These
are just a few guidelines, there are many more
which I am happy to share with my customers.
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