Are You New to Buying Art in an Art Gallery? Here's Everything You Need to Know

If you are new to the process of buying art in an art gallery, it is important to understand what you can expect. The following steps will help guide you through the process and make your overall experience more enjoyable. 

Let The Art Gallery Staff Know That It Is Your First Time Buying Art

The first thing to do when entering an art gallery is to stop at the front desk and let them know that you would like a consultation from one of their artists. This ensures that someone who has been trained on how to help those who have never bought artwork before assists you with your purchase. They will help you find the right piece of artwork for your home since art gallery staff know a lot about buying art and can guide you in making an educated decision that is best for you.

Know If There Are Other Costs Involved Before Buying Art From An Art Gallery

If you don’t know what to expect, it may be easy to assume that buying art in an art gallery is just like shopping for anything else. How are the costs involved when purchasing original art? What does the “art price tag” include?

Be aware that most galleries take commissions as opposed to selling pieces outright so there may be additional fees or costs for this service. It's best if both parties come up with a price beforehand so there aren't any surprises after.

For example, some galleries take a 30% commission for selling the piece while others will charge you an hourly fee to do so. This is something that should be discussed before buying art from any gallery or art dealer.

Prepare Your Budget

Having enough money saved can also help with opening up your options as there's no guarantee of how much art may cost. Be aware that not all pieces by popular artists are going to have low prices set on them even if they're being sold through smaller independent venues rather than major auction houses. Don't let this discourage you though because there are still many affordable contemporary works out there! Just make sure you know what to look for and ask questions before you purchase.

Do Your Research

Well, the last thing you want to do is buy a piece of art that doesn't correspond with your home décor. That would be embarrassing!

• Learning about color schemes and themes will help you find appropriate pieces of fine art for sale.
• If buying an abstract painting or sculpture, make sure it matches with other artwork in the room where you intend on putting them up. Don't put modern paintings next to classic furniture! It won't look right at all.
• Also, remember to consider what type of lighting is in the room as well as how much natural light flows into the said area since this can affect how vibrant colors are perceived by viewers.

By Dru Bloomfield - https://www.flickr.com/photos/athomeinscottsdale/3836187025/in/photostream/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=95427764

Be Sure The Artwork Is Authentic

Make sure the gallery is well known and reputable. If it's not, you could be buying a fake piece that will have only sentimental value.

Ask to see certificates of authenticity for pieces that are being sold by an art dealer or at auction so you know they're authentic. This step can help avoid disappointment after receiving your art purchase.

Before paying, ask if there's any form of guarantee on the work such as money back should there ever come a time when questions about its validity arise later on down the line. You probably won't get this from smaller online galleries but larger ones usually offer something like this without charge - just another reason why it pays to shop around and find one with good customer service to back up their products.

When buying from an art gallery, always look out for a good return policy, and don't be afraid to ask the questions that will help you feel at ease with your purchase! This can all save you time, money, and stress in the future.

If you are new to buying art in an art gallery, don't worry. The staff will be happy to help answer any questions and guide you through the process of choosing a piece that is right for your budget, tastes, or needs. You should know there may be additional costs involved with purchasing artwork from an art gallery beyond just the cost of the painting itself so be sure to ask before making a purchase.

Are You Looking for Contemporary Art to Complement Your Home?

The Marshall Gallery, located in Scottsdale’s Historic Arts District, has been the center of contemporary art since its founding in 1998. Boasting a collection of paintings, sculptures, and exquisite glass pieces, the gallery hosts several exhibitions each year plus a biennial glass invitational that attracts top-notch talent. Here you will find exceptional art presented in an open and relaxed gallery space, which is perfect for browsing the ever-changing collection. Explore on your own, or allow our expert art consultants to offer complimentary assistance to find the perfect addition to your own collection. Looking for the perfect piece of art to complement your home’s decor? Visit us in person or browse our online art store!