Venturing into the world of online art buying? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our easy-to-follow guide featuring ten essential tips. We’ll assist you in finding your artistic style, and reliable platforms, and ensuring the secure delivery of authentic artwork right to your doorstep.
The Context
In today’s digital era, the internet has completely changed how investors discover and acquire art.
With just a few clicks and taps, you can access a wide spectrum of artworks from all corners of the world, allowing you to curate and accumulate your art collections from the comfort of your home.
But do keep in mind that buying art online can be intimidating, particularly for those who are new to this asset class.
To help you steer this exciting area and put together better decisions, we have compiled a list of ten crucial tips for purchasing art online. So, let’s unleash your inner art investor and dive into the world of virtual galleries!
1. Define Your Preferences
Pretty much like how every investor’s risk appetite is unique, every art investor also possesses a unique preference and style. Before diving into the world of online art galleries, it is crucial to dedicate some time to understanding your personal preferences. Take the opportunity to explore various art styles, mediums, and genres to discover what truly captivates you.
Common types of art that attract investors include contemporary art, modern art, abstract art, pop art, and traditional fine art—but ultimately, you need to find what resonates with you the most. This process of self-reflection will act as a compass as you navigate through the vast collection of artworks online, allowing you to refine your choices and make more informed decisions.
2. Conduct Research
One of the greatest advantages of buying art online is the wealth of information that is available for free. Utilize search engines, online galleries, and social media platforms to explore various artists, their backgrounds, and their artistic journeys.
Read about their inspirations, techniques, and any awards or exhibitions they have participated in. This research will provide valuable context and enhance your understanding of the artworks you come across.
3. Artist’s Resume
When considering purchasing art online, dive deeper into the artist’s background. Look for their resume or biography, which often highlights their artistic accomplishments, education, and professional experiences.
Understanding the artist’s journey can add meaning and depth to the artwork you are interested in, allowing you to connect with their artistic vision and potential for their future success on a deeper level.
4. Find Trustworthy Platforms
When it comes to buying art online, it is crucial to find reputable platforms that ensure the authenticity and quality of the artwork. Look for established online galleries or artist websites that have secure payment systems, transparent return policies, and positive customer reviews.
Check if the platform verifies the authenticity of the artwork and provides detailed descriptions, high-resolution images, and certificates of authenticity.
5. Demand a Certificate of Authenticity
When buying art online, especially for investing purposes, always insist on a certificate of authenticity. This document provides essential information about the artwork, including its title, medium, dimensions, and the artist’s signature.
A certificate of authenticity adds credibility and ensures the artwork’s legitimacy, allowing you to appreciate and preserve its value over time.
6. Carefully Examine Visuals
When purchasing art online, you rely on digital images to experience the artwork. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the images provided are of high quality, enabling you to zoom in and examine the details.
Look for clear and well-lit images that accurately represent the colors, textures, brush strokes, and dimensions of the artwork. Multiple angles and close-ups can provide a comprehensive view of the original piece.
7. Read Descriptions
Accurate and detailed artwork descriptions are essential for understanding the piece you are considering. Pay attention to information such as the title, medium, dimensions, year of creation, and any additional details provided by the artist or gallery.
Descriptions should also mention the artwork’s condition, framing (if applicable), and whether it is an original or a limited edition.
8. Consider Size and Space
When purchasing art online, it’s crucial to consider the dimensions of the artwork and how it will fit in your storage space. If it’s intended for a display, measure the wall or area where you intend to display the artwork and compare it with the provided dimensions.
Visualize how the artwork will complement your space, taking into account factors such as furniture placement, lighting, and overall aesthetics.
9. Fair Pricing
While exploring online art galleries, be mindful of fair pricing. Compare prices of similar artworks to ensure that you are not overpaying. This would be similar to relative valuation that’s applied in stocks or real estate.
Take into account factors such as the artist’s reputation, the complexity of the artwork, and its size. Remember, fair pricing reflects the value of the artwork and the artist’s expertise.
10. Guaranteed Sale and Delivery
Before making a purchase, ensure that the online platform or gallery offers a commitment to a guaranteed sale and secure delivery. Clarify the terms and conditions surrounding shipping, packaging, and insurance to protect your investment.
A reputable online platform or auction house will prioritize the safe delivery of the artwork and provide support in case of any unforeseen issues.
Conclusion
From an investment perspective and if you are starting with small capital, buying art online can be a wise decision. For more exclusive artworks, however, it’s always recommended to visit art galleries in person.
Art has the potential to appreciate over time, making it a tangible and enjoyable investment. Still, it’s important to approach art as a long-term investment and not solely for short-term financial gain.
Consider factors such as the artist’s reputation, their artistic trajectory, and the demand for their work. While there are still some risks involved, a well-researched purchase from a trusted online platform can provide both aesthetic and investment value.
Happy collecting, and may your art purchases bring you both aesthetic pleasure and potential investment returns!
Invest wisely!
