The contemporary art market is a living system that consists of a variety of actors. Artists, gallery owners, collectors, critics and other participants form the pulsating heart of this ecosystem. Works of art are not only traded in traditional galleries and auction houses , but also on digital platforms, temporary exhibitions, trade fairs, biennals and art events worldwide.
In the course of history, works of art have experienced a remarkable increase in value and the art market repeatedly achieves record prices. Art can not only bring monetary returns as an investment, but also cultural dividends in the form of prestige and recognition.
buying art can be a challenge for many people, but with these 10 golden rules for clever investments in the art market, the process becomes considerably easier. Regardless of whether you are looking for contemporary paintings , sculptures or unique unique unique items from old masters, these rules help you to find a trustworthy provider or a gallery.
From the examination of the artist, the provenance of the work, as well as the gallery to the purchase and shipping of works - these rules will help you to make your purchase experience a full success.
Why should you buy art?
Why should you buy art ? This question may seem banal at first, but it actually harbors a variety of good reasons. Art is not only an aesthetic enjoyment experience, but can also be a clever investment. In addition to an ideal value, works of art often have an actual market factory that can increase over time. In fact, the art market has even been able to exceed different forms of investment in recent years (see value developments on the art market 2022 ).
The worldwide art market continues to flourish and is therefore of great interest to investors. The most important question on everyone is: Can an art collection be regarded as a good investment?
Our answer is: It depends on your goals and investment reasons.
There is no doubt that art can gain value and achieve good returns. According to a kind of Basel annual report, the global sales of art and antiques in recent years have been estimated to be an estimated in the middle double-digit billion dollar range. Despite the closure of auction houses and galleries due to Covid-19, collectors found a way to get valuable pieces.
Prominent personalities who valuable art collections include billionaires such as Francois Pinault, whose collection should have an estimated value of $ 1.4 billion. The most expensive collection in the world has a value of $ 3 billion and belongs to the Nahmad brothers Ezra and David . They are said to have up to 5,000 works of art that you buy and sell with maximum profit.
As with any other investment, however, thorough research must be carried out to determine whether an investment in art is the best way to use your money. Collecting art harbors a number of risks if you want to make money with it. However, it is advisable to spend enough time with gaining knowledge and information about the industry.
In contrast to other forms of investment, art also offers an intangible benefit in the form of the possibility of beautifying your own home or office and creating a unique atmosphere. By acquiring art, they also support artists and their art production, which is of great importance for the cultural diversity and the preservation of the artistic work.
Online trading and digitization also revolutionized the art market by making it possible to conveniently discover and acquire works of art from home. Many galleries and artists now offer their own online shops so that they can find a large selection of pictures, sculptures and other uniqueatas. Such a service often also includes the safe shipping of the works including transport insurance and return options if not fallen.
So if you want to bring something new into your life and at the same time enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of works of art, why not start buying art today?
How do you find the right work of art for yourself?
When it comes to buying art, it is important to find the right work of art for yourself. There are so many different types of art, from paintings to sculptures to digital NFTS and 3D printing jewelry.
Photo by Ryan Stefan @ryanstefan, via Unsplash
A good start is to speak to experts and find out what a high -quality work of art is. Visit galleries, visit art fairs and auctions to get an impression of how to buy and sell works of art. Works of deceased artists are tend to be sold at higher prices due to their rarity and the lower possibility of replication.
But art of living artists also cuts off well on the market. If you can get an early creation of an artist who will later be successful in his career, the value of his work can increase considerably. A good start would be to explore and discover every contemporary artist who wakes up your interest.
Study your background, your style, your exhibitions and all the work with which you have been commissioned. Talk to a curator or art specialist to find out his opinion on the artist and the potential of his works.
How can you choose the work of art that suits you? Here are some tips to help you search.
First of all, you should take your personal preferences and interests into account . What kind of art does she address? Are you more fascinated by abstract works or realistic representations? Take your time to explore different styles and techniques and find out what you like best.
Another important aspect is research . Go online and look for renowned galleries, auction portals or art shops . There you will find a large selection of works of art by various artists. Familiarize yourself with the works and also take a look at the reviews and comments from other buyers.
There is nothing more important in the world of art than authenticity . Collectors often spend a lot of money on original works, which is why there are also counterfeits. It is essential to check the authenticity of a work of art before you buy it.
There are various ways to do this, such as expertise, certificates or provenance research . Modern technologies such as spectroscopy or X -rays can also help with the review of works of art. A thorough review of authenticity not only protects the buyer's investment, but also ensures that he has a piece of history that is authentic.
The online purchase of works of art is also a popular service. Many artists have their own online shops in which they offer their works for sale. This can be a good way to discover new and aspiring artists and buy them directly from them. However, make sure that shipping and packaging are carried out carefully to ensure that the artwork arrives undamaged.
After all, it is important to take into account, assess and evaluate the value of the artwork. Not every work of art automatically becomes a lucrative financial investment. If you are interested in investing in art , you should obtain an expert council and learn more about the artists and their works.
Ask for the origin of the artwork , the materials used and the artist's future forecast. The purchase of art can be a wonderful way to beautify your space and at the same time invest in a unique and individual work of art.
What questions should you ask before you acquire a work of art?
The art market offers a variety of opportunities and it can be a challenge to find the right work of art for itself.
It is therefore advisable to take some basic questions into account in order to make the right decision. First of all, you should ask yourself why you to buy art . Are you about beautifying your home or would you like to invest in the art market? Depending on your goals, your requirements can differ in a work of art.
An art collection for the investment is, for example, a long -term investment and is only recommended to patient investors who are willing to wait for the returns of their investments. It is not suitable for short -term investors. Most people who invest in art use them to pass on assets to the next generation and diversify their investment portfolio.
An important principle that you should consider when you consider art collections as an investment option is to understand what you invest in. This is an advice that was given by the investment guru Warren Buffett and is reflected in the classic finance guide book " The Richest Man in" by George S. Clason . According to the book, the fourth rule of gold is:
"Gold slips the man who invests it in shops or purposes with whom he is not familiar or who are not approved by experts who manage it."
Another important question is: How do you find the right work of art for yourself? There are many ways to discover works of art-from galleries and exhibitions to online shops and art fairs. You can also get in touch with the artists or a gallery owner via social media like Instagram. It is advisable to use different sources to find a wide selection of works of art and explore your personal preferences.
If you consider a work of art, you should also take a closer look at the artist behind the work. Research the artist and find out about his previous work, his exhibition history, his style and reputation. This can help you better assess the quality and value of the work of art.
Furthermore, you should questions about the condition of the artwork . Does it have any damage or defects? Is the work an original or reproduction? These questions are important to ensure that you acquire a high -quality and unique work of art.
Finally, you should also ask questions about the purchase process. Is shipping included? Is there a customer service if you have any questions or need support? Is the sale secured via a renowned online shop or a gallery?
By asking yourself these questions and researching thoroughly, you will be better prepared to buy a work of art that meets your ideas and needs. Remember that art is a personal experience and it is important to find a work that gives you pleasure and also a good investment in the long term.
What is the difference between original and reproductive art?
Before you buy a work of art, it is important to understand the difference between original and reproductive art.
Original works of art (so -called unique) are handmade by an artist and are unique. They are the result of creative expression and have a special artistic value. These works of art can be paintings, sculptures or other types of works and are often sold in galleries or directly by the artist.
Reproductive art, on the other hand, are replicas of original works. These can be printed posters, art prints or digital reproductions. Reproductive art is usually cheaper and easily accessible because it can be produced in large quantities.
When buying art, it is important to check whether it is an original work or reproduction. Original works usually have a higher financial and artistic value, while reproductions can be considered more decorative pieces. However, there are also limited editions that are also suitable as a value.
What you should know about the art market - from classic oil paintings to crypto art and NFTS
The art market is a fascinating place that offers a wide range of works of art and styles. From classic oil paintings to crypto art and NFTs , there are always new and exciting developments.
However, before you immerse yourself in this diversity, there is some basic information that you should know about the art market.
First of all, you should know that the art market not only includes physical works such as paintings and sculptures. Digital art achieved a completely new dimension with the advent of cryptocunation and NFTs
These digital works of art are traded as unique digital assets and can be purchased and sold online.
The art market is dynamic and constantly changing (which was clearly demonstrated by the comet-like rise of NFT art around the Bored Apes and its rapid decline in value afterwards). It is important to find out about current trends and developments to make clever investments. Art experts can help you understand the market and to assess the future prospects of a work as an investment object.
Should you buy on the primary or secondary market?
The primary market refers to the direct purchase of works of art from the artists or the galleries that you represent, during the secondary market , comprises the resale of existing works of art.
Both options have their advantages and disadvantages that need to be taken into account.
Buying on the primary market offers you the opportunity to contact the artist or gallery directly. This gives you valuable insights into the artwork and the creative process of the artist. You can ask questions, learn more about the background of the artwork and possibly even establish a personal connection to the artist.
In addition, on the primary market, you have the chance to discover new and aspiring artists and thus acquire unique works of art.
On the other hand, the secondary market offers the advantage that you can buy established artists and their works. Here you have a larger selection of works of art that are already available on the market. There are galleries, auction houses and online shops that specialize in the sale of secondary market art and can offer them a wide range of works.
In addition, you can also find historical works of art on the secondary market that are no longer available on the primary market.
Buying on the primary market may offer you unique opportunities, while the secondary market offers a larger selection and diversity. In the end, it is about choosing the option that best suits you and your needs. Family familiarize yourself with both markets, research thoroughly and go into your individual ideas.
How do you know whether the price-performance ratio is appropriate?
An important aspect when buying art is the price-performance ratio. Finally, you would like to make sure that you receive an appropriate work of art for your money. But how can you find out whether the price is justified?
Here are some questions that you should ask yourself to make this assessment.
First of all, it is important to research the market and the current prices for similar works of art . A gallery or an online shop can help you get information about comparable works and its price range. In this way, you can better assess the offer and determine whether the price for the work of art you selected is fair.
You should also take into account the artist's reputation . An established artist with a successful career will usually request higher prices for his works.
Therefore, check whether the artist has already exhibited in renowned galleries, received awards or was mentioned in artificial writings. This gives you an indication of the value and quality of its works of art. Another aspect that needs to be taken into account are the materials used and the technology of the artist. Is it unique or reproduction?
Is the work of art made by hand in a complex process or was it manufactured machine? Hand -painted original or elaborate sculptures often have a higher value than printed reproductions. The condition of the artwork also plays an important role.
Make sure that it has damage or wear. This can affect the price for used works of art. It is also advisable to ask for authentication or a certificate to ensure that it is a real work of art.
Ultimately, it is important that you do not ignore your gut feeling. If you look at the work of art, does it appeal to you? Does it arouse emotions in them? If you feel a strong connection to the work and it has a special value for you, the price is often justified.
The price-performance ratio of art purchase is therefore an individual assessment that takes into account various factors.
How to recognize good art and what quality criteria help you
When it comes to buying works of art, it is important to distinguish good art from less high -quality works. But how do you recognize really good art? Which quality criteria help us?
First of all, it is important to understand that art has a subjective character. What is a masterpiece for one viewer can be uninteresting for another. Nevertheless, there are certain characteristics that we can use to assess the quality of a work of art.
A crucial factor is the originality . Real works of art are unique items that were personally created by the artist. Reproductions may be aesthetically appealing, but they lack the originality and authenticity that makes a real work of art.
Therefore, make sure that you rely on originality when buying works of art. Furthermore, the quality of manual quality an important role. Good works of art are characterized by a careful execution and a high level of artistic competence . Pay attention to the details, the use of colors and materials as well as the technical implementation of the work. A good artist dominates his craft and skilfully expresses his vision.
Quality seamlessly changes into the criterion , because although it is advisable to concentrate on typical examples of the work of an artist, rarity is always of great importance. In this context, rarity means that the number is limited or hardly available and not something different or unusual.
Many well -known artists produce high -quality prints (Giclées) as part of their artistic practice and this is an affordable way to own a work of them. The more limited the edition is, the sooner the value will be higher in the long term. A circulation of up to 50 copies is optimal, with several hundred copies should be carefully weighed.
Another quality criterion is the expressiveness of a work of art . It should arouse emotions and tell a story. Good art touches us and does not leave us indifferent. If you look at a work of art, make sure what feelings it triggers and how it stimulates your senses.
Finally, it is important to find out about the artist's reputation and the reviews of his works. Research on the Internet, read reviews and experiences of other buyers. A renowned gallery or an established online service provider can also help you find high-quality works of art and examine it accordingly.
The assessment of the quality of a work of art becomes easier if you have looked and studied art comprehensively. Experienced collectors have a wealth of visual knowledge and can therefore quickly make a judgment.
For beginners, however, it is best to concentrate on buying works that reflect the characteristic style of an artist. If an artist usually paints still lifes or has acquired a call as a landscape painter, it is these works that will continue to keep their value in the future. So don't let yourself be tempted to buy something atypical.
Also check the origin and sales history of the work. provenance literally means a record of ownership (who was the previous owners of the artwork), although in a sales context like a auction room, they can also indicate where and when the artwork was sold.
Provenance can be an important instrument to determine the authenticity of a piece and contribute to its prestige. If the previous owner was considered a knowledgeable collector, works of art from his collection can have a certain " value -added" , says Briar Williams , specialized art appraiser at Art Valiations NZ .
Another important rule when collecting is to check the condition of what you buy very carefully. This rule can be difficult to follow, since the preservation/restoration of art is a highly specialized area and sometimes the help of a professional restorer is necessary to assess the condition of a piece that you may want to buy.
Poor condition can significantly reduce the value of a work, and if the condition cannot be treated carefully and sensitively by a restorer or expert, the piece (and its value) may no longer be saved.
The worrying aspects in oil paintings include cracked or peeling colors, cracks or holes in the canvas as well as any kind of mold or fungal attack on the surface of the painting.
While a certain age -related wear is completely normal and even expected in works from the 19th and early 20th centuries, such a problem should be examined in recent paintings before buying. When working on paper, the value is in color and paper.
A faded watercolor cannot be brought back to life through preservation, but the brown stick stains or brown spots, which often occur on non -archived paper, can often be treated and can increase the value accordingly.
A dealer gallery or a auction house should be able to submit a general initial assessment of the state of traded works of art in the form of a state report and detailed photos.
A tip at the end: Do not be influenced by current trends or low prices when buying . Take your time to look at works of art, compare and take your own preferences into account. Art purchase is a personal decision that is about finding something that gives you pleasure and meets your individual aesthetic requirements. So take the time to find good art and enjoy the process of buying art.
How do experts invest in the art market when investing?
When it comes to investing in the art market, it is advisable experts in order to make well -founded decisions. Experts have many years of experience and knowledge of the art market and can give valuable insights and recommendations.
A first step is to find a renowned gallery or an art platform that offers a trustworthy service. There you can find works of art by various artists, in different styles and media.
It is also important to take into account the quality of the works and look for artists who have already been established or whose works show a positive development (you can also derive this in parts of the press reporting on previous exhibitions and trade fair participation).
In addition, you should find out more about the current art market to recognize trends and potential investment opportunities.
Take your budget into account and make sure that the price-performance ratio is appropriate. Overall, it is important to take patient and strategic action when investing in the art market in order to achieve long -term success. Experts or specialized online portals that have committed themselves to evaluating works of art and their investment potential can help you make the right decisions and make your investments profitably.
Art as an investment? Ownly Investor's Talk with Dr. Franziska Ida Neumann
Dr. Franziska Ida Neumann , founder of the company I Date Art. Art Consulting & Lecturing and author of the book "How you build up a fortune with Picasso & Co. ... And why everyone can (not) become rich in the end" , which has been published in the Munich Financial Book of Verlag, gives important insights into the functioning of the art trade and gives us a number of helpful advice on the subject.
How do collectors recognize the quality of a work and its future prospects as an investment object?
As a potential buyer with an investment intention, it is important not only to be blinded by the beauty of a work of art, but also to take into account its potential future performance.
An established artist with a solid career usually has better future prospects than a new emerging artist ( Blue Chip Art usually performs significantly better than Red Chip Art ).
Another criterion to assess the quality of a work is the execution and the manual ability. Pay attention to details such as the composition, the coloring and the technology of the artist. Is the work carefully and precisely executed? Does it show a certain originality and innovation?
These factors can have an impact on the long -term performance of the artwork. In addition, you can also obtain the opinions of experts and gallery owners. These experts have extensive knowledge and experience on the art market and can give them valuable assessments.
However, note that opinions can differ and that there is no absolute guarantee for the future performance of a work of art. One last aspect that collectors should consider are personal preferences and tastes.
Works of art that appeal emotionally and establish a personal connection can be a worthwhile investment. Because the passion for a work can also inspire other collectors and increase its value.
Overall, it is important to take various aspects into account when assessing the quality and performance of a work of art, such as the artist's reputation, the manual execution, the opinions of experts and personal preferences.
Through a thorough examination and weighing of these factors, collectors can maximize their chances of acquiring a high -quality work of art that is also worthwhile in the long term as an investment property.
In a nutshell: 10 golden rules for clever investments in the art market
Let us steam the knowledge gained for you in 10 golden rules that are crucial for a successful investment in the art market ...
- Art represents a worthwhile investor for calm and patient investors who are willing to invest a period of at least 10 years.
- Carefully consider which budget you want to apply for a work of art. It is advisable to choose an amount that you can cope with in the worst case if the work loses value.
- When planning, please take into account the possible costs for storage and maintenance . It is important to observe the effects of moisture and direct sunlight to ensure the flawless quality. insurance and certification costs are additional financial factors .
- Get an overview of the art market ! Make a detour to galleries in your area and be inspired by what you have to offer. Get advice from curators and experts and immerse yourself in the fascinating variety of art forms.
- Explore the online auction houses , such as Artnet, Catawiki and e-artis to understand the functioning of the art market. Artsy offers an international marketplace with over a million works of art.
- The world of art is diverse and multifaceted. In order to find it specifically, it is advisable to focus the interest in a certain genre or a specific era . The search is made easier with the support of an expert expert.
- If you are particularly impressed by a work of art or artist, it is possible to refine your search and determine the value of a special work of art. The format, technology, but also the artist himself, the origin of the work and the history of sales are important criteria to determine the value.
- Treat your work of art a professional assessment to secure its quality safely. Trust the expertise of an experienced expert and learn more about the value of your work of art.
- There are two ways to get a work of art. The first option is to buy the work of art itself . However, this variant is usually associated with higher costs. The second option is to acquire shares in a work of art via an online marketplace (so-called fractional art investing ). In this way, art lovers can still enjoy a high -quality work of art with a smaller budget.
- It is known that originals or unique items will achieve the highest price on the art market, but also offer the greatest profit potential. In contrast, art prints or copies cheaper, but less promising. When it comes to the quality of prints, the term "Giclée" used to describe the highest quality pressure.
Owner and managing director of Kunstplaza. Publicist, editor and passionate blogger in the field of art, design and creativity since 2011. Successful conclusion in web design as part of a university degree (2008). Further development of creativity techniques through courses in free drawing, expression painting and theatre/acting. Profound knowledge of the art market through many years of journalistic research and numerous collaborations with actors/institutions from art and culture.
