"The paradigm has shifted. Less than a year ago,
Miami, Paris, London, Venice and beyond. The value
curators & art "advisors" who had something to gain.
Less-than-well-executed paintings, broken pottery,
preserved wildlife, graffiti, cartoons - even excrement
– was touted as “important,” as precious, as invaluable
– and hundreds ofthousands – if not several millions of
dollars were spent. “Good” art seemed out of reach for all
but the top echelon. And the art purchased? Its value has
plummeted [like most things]. It is possible it will never
recover the value paid. The “investors” were sold not
on quality, but on the buzz created by clever marketers.
So why buy art now? Because no one else is.Visual artists
throughout the world have suffered the lingering drag
of the economy. Hardly anyone is attending the “big shows”
sales have slumped, prices have dropped, and galleries
have closed. The artists, creating their work alone in
their studios are still making fabulous art. It can be
had for a song…right now. You don’t need to
believe the buzz… just believe your heart.
Sure, visit the galleries – visit the expos –
but going directly to the artist is neither a sin –
nor a mistake. If you find work that calls to you
– and it is affordable – buy it. Buy it now. First
ask yourself these questions – Is this particular art something:
· Forever – Do you want to live with for eternity?
Will it have meaning to your children or a museum someday?
· Of quality? Is it exceptionally well made?
· Of unquestionable integrity? That demonstrate honesty –
does it reveal something about the artist, his or her vision
– does it tell a story? · Unique – is it extraordinary?
The only one of its kind – not manufactured or
created by one of the artist’s assistants? Is it rare
enough – distinctive? Some artists churn out work
on an assembly line – [and some galleries sell it]
make sure this isn’t seen everywhere. · Irreplaceable?
Not just in the sense that it is insurable…
do you dream about owning it? · Impractical?
I’m not talking about a clever lampshade or
hand-bound journal · Admired? Do others feel
the same passion for the artist as you do?
Is it a luxury? You bet. So why buy direct from the artist?
· People. People like to buy from people. You’ll create
a relationship with the artist. You know what makes
them tick and why their unique gift – their art - is the
art that speaks to your soul. You will know each other
for years to come. The artist will stay in touch – will
show you their new work first – will invite you to their
shows… and they’ll love you forever just for buying their
work. · Pleasure. Luxury consumption – buying art -
is all about the experience – your senses will come alive
– you will have an emotional connection to the art
\ – you will derive great satisfaction from owning the
one-and-only piece. · Purpose. As non-utilitarian as your
art purchase may be… it still has a purpose – it is décor
after all – it will have its place on your wall or on a pedestal.
In conclusion, what may seem to be a luxury – buying art
– from the artist, is actually a very sensible and practical move
- in this economy – at this moment. In time, the art market
may shift back to the old paradigm. So in the meantime,
supporting working artists is more important than ever.
Is not just a wise financial assumption, it will be good for
your soul [and theirs]. And, the benefit of staring at your
art purchase at your home of office may keep your heart
fluttering until the economy returns to normal.
"By Marie-Thérèse Beddoes
2009 - June
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