Collecting Fine Art
By Robert Maniscalco
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 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? Watch out
for dubious Lt. ed. prints or starving artist fare, dressed up to look like art.
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
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. Just go to
artlease.com for more details and/or to set up an account.
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 as of
September 1, 1999:
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!
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