TOP 7 TIPS ON HOW TO BUY ART FROM AN ARTIST

1. Do your research

Before contacting an artist, do a little research. If they have a website, review their exhibition record and see how long they have been an artist. Read the artist’s statement about his/her work.

Search online for other listings or reviews of the artist’s work.

If the artist has a show up in your area, try to take the time to go see the artist’s work in person.

VISITING AN ARTIST IN HIS STUDIO CAN BE A GREAT EXPERIENCE! Gaylen Hansen in his studio

2. Send the artist an emailI usually start my emails by saying something flattering about the artist’s work. We are all prone to a little vanity and a compliment can go a long way in getting you a good price on the artwork you want.

Indicate which piece of artwork you might be interested in and inquire about the price.

Also, if the artist lives in your vicinity it is well worth it to ask for a studio visit in order to make your selection. Most artists are very open showing you their studio and meeting in person.

Tip: A quick phone call can also speed things up and help to develop a working relationship.

Dear Artist,

I Love

your

artwor

k!

3. Inquire about the artist’s materials. It is important to purchase artwork that is made with archival materials. Yes, there are a number of contemporary artists who have forgone the notion of creating works that will last through the ages, but for the collector, those issues should still be a concern.

Artist’s should use archival paper, and materials that will not yellow or fall apart over time.

Avoid purchasing works of art done on unsealed wood, or other organic matter.

4 Inquire about the artist’s return policy. Make sure that the artist agrees, in writing, to accept back any artwork you purchase, if you are unsatisfied in any way. The artist should stand behind his or her work and be willing to give you a full refund and take back the artwork with no questions asked.

“Agavanatomy” Bruce Black

5. Negotiate a priceYou can often negotiate a somewhat lower price when dealing directly with artists. This is where some flattery and developing a good relationship with the artist can help. But don’t expect more than 10% to 15% off. Artists need to make a profit as well.

Negotiating Tips:

• Purchase more than one painting and ask for a discount for bundling.

• Ask if the artist is willing to pick up the shipping fees

• Ask if the artist is willing to frame the work for you at a lower cost than from a frame shop.

• Ask if the artist has any drawings or sketches that were preliminary to the finished work and if he/she is willing to send them along with the painting. This is a great way to get a free drawing and it adds to the Provenance of the work.

When you negotiate properly, both sides leave satisfied, and a good relationship is established.

6. Pay with a credit card

Try to see if the artist will accept a credit card or has a PayPal account. This way your purchase is protected through your credit card company.

7. Send A Thank You

Note

A thank you note is a nice way to let the artist know that the artwork has arrived safely and you are pleased with it.Once you have established a good relationship with an artist, you can often get better prices down the road.

The old man reading a letter - Fyodor Bronnikov

Want to buy a great piece of art from a great artist?Visit: www.bruceblackart.com