You’re not an art curator, a gallery owner and have no art background. But you love art. Who doesn’t?
So how do you find a lovely timeless masterpiece that’s worth every penny?

We citizens of the world are drawn to aesthetics because all primates—including us humans, are highly visual creatures —this is why we love looking at beautiful things and stunning art pieces.
Brain scan studies proved how healthy it is for our brains when we gaze in breathtaking art pieces.

Now let me dive in on how you can foolproof yourself in buying or choosing art.

1. Does the artwork in front of you give you goosebumps?
Did it touch your soul? Does it invoke unexplainable emotions that feel good? If yes, then you’re good! If no, then stop, listen to your gut and don’t consider buying that piece.

2. Do you know the artist and the gallery or people or platform where you’re buying?
If yes, then you’re good! If not, then don’t waste your time and money. Always buy art from a legitimate and reputable gallery or platform. Art collectors usually stick to the artist they like because they can connect to every artwork of a specific artist. When it comes to galleries or platforms where they buy art they trust their friends or network. Additionally, they explore other platforms too and they make sure that they talk to a person who is an expert on this area.

3. Is it within your budget?
If yes, then go for it. Art collectors usually buy artwork for their personal collections that they didn’t necessarily expect to consider an investment. But, if you have a limited budget, that’s ok. Especially if you’re just starting to collect art—So if you have a limited amount of money to spend on, talk to the artists or galleries or platforms’ support to discuss the payment plans and terms.
Most professional and respectable artists partner with galleries and platforms to sell their art because it helps keep the value of art, so they’d tell you to talk directly to the galleries or platforms where they consign their artwork.

So that’s it. Just three important tips that you can always ask yourself or think of.

For Art Collectors
You know what you want. You invest in elegant pieces because you simply love art.
You can send a note to privatesales@spoliarium.com for assistance on how to acquire the stunning artwork of Spoliarium’s artists.

For new collectors or curious art lovers
You can send a note to privatesales@spoliarium.com for assistance on how to get started or any inquiries.
We also have good proposals on what would work for you and your finances.

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Note: Below are high level technical terms that are crucial in a painting. Know what to look for, and how to talk the talk on your way to becoming an art expert..

Elements of Painting
Colour – the heart of every painting. It sets the tone of how I feel. It has to speak to me.
Tone – tone gives contrast (makes the painting light and dark). It affects how I perceive a painting.
Line – defined by a brush and it defines the subject of the painting.
Shape – an enclosed area that is made when lines meet. I love it when it blends with the subject well.
Space – the balance between positive and negative space. I prefer a piece that is not too busy.
Texture – a pattern/brushstroke that shows how unique an art piece is. It makes the painting stand out dramatically.
Composition – the arrangement of subject + other elements. It is important to me how they all look good together.
Direction – related to the movement, direction + perspective. It affects the highlights and shadows of a painting.
Size – the scale of the painting, this is one of the biggest considerations for any artist and art collectors.
Time – is it timeless or contemporary? I always prefer the classic or timeless looking pieces.

Composition of Art (Painting)
Unity – all elements should look good together
Balance – does it feel right when you look at it? If yes, the balance is well done.
Movement – the position of figures/elements and the flow of it.
Rhythm – does it have a good tone and proper pattern that makes you want to look for more?
Focus – what is the focal point of the painting? If it’s not clear we won’t look at it and it won’t capture any attention.
Contrast – the perfect balance of light and dark.
Pattern – regular repetition or abstract in the painting.
Proportion – affects how everything fits together and relates to each other.

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By Herica CH