Do your research. Become informed by utilizing museums, galleries, auction houses, other collectors, art books & periodicals. What is the state of the current art scene? Allow yourself to form opinions. The bottom line must be what turns you on. Do you enjoy subjective or abstract art? Is there an historical period that appeals to you or are you interested in what is being done today (contemporary)? Will your collection focus on a particular region, medium or subject? Do you prefer a certain genre, i.e. impressionism, expressionism, realism. Many people prefer an eclectic collection, whereas others prefer to specialize in one type of art. Be careful to avoid fashion trends.

What to look for in a work of art. There are many ways to appreciate and determine quality fine art. Depending on the art work in question some criteria are more important than others. What is the aesthetic and historical relevance? Aspects such as composition, color, surface, mannerliness, expressiveness are very important in an abstract piece whereas narrative, subject, paint quality, light on form and draftsmanship might be more important in realism. Become acquainted with the jargon of art. Understand the difference and function of "decorative art" vs. "fine art." Be concerned about archival quality – will it stand up over time? Learn to recognize quality in all it's aspects.

Value vs. Cost The value of a work of art is not necessarily the same as it's cost. As with any purchase the art consumer is looking for the value to be greater than the cost. Prices in art have come down considerably from the ‘80's. Art collectors are more savvy today, not as subject to hype and the empty promises of huge investment turn arounds. Even though art collecting is still one of the best long term investments around it is unrealistic to buy art for the sole purpose of making a financial killing. The bottom line is this: is the personal satisfaction and value you will derive from owning the work of art worth the cost?

What makes for a good art investment? In contemporary art, prices are determined by the quality of art, the stature of the artist (gallery/museum shows, notoriety, collections, provenance of works, etc) and the fair market value of his/her work. Emerging artists are a good long term investment if their work is of consistently high quality and if the artist has proven he/she is on a solid career track. Watch out for dubious Lt. ed. prints or starving artist fare, dressed up to look like art.

Try it out first! There are a few full-service galleries (like the Maniscalco Gallery) who will come to your home or office, and consult with you about your collection as it relates to your environment, even hanging works of art that interest you for a 2-3 week trial.

Lease it! More and more businesses are finding leasing to be an ideal option for building a great art collection. Leases are tax deductible, allow for flexibility and, best of all, they are easy on the cash flow. Ask about leasing or rent-to-own programs at the Maniscalco Gallery.

Guaranteed Value Statement The Maniscalco Gallery is pioneering a new concept in collecting art. As a way of standing behind our artists and protecting and enhancing the value of their work to our collectors we are now guaranteeing the value of each work of art sold at the Maniscalco Gallery: within one year of purchasing a work of art at the Maniscalco Gallery you may trade up, applying the cost you paid toward the acquisition of another work of art that is at least twice the price of the original work of art you purchased.

Now it is possible to upgrade your collection at a later date without risking the devaluation of your current collection!