"I DON'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT ART"
WHAT DOES THE ARTWORK ON YOUR WALLS SAY ABOUT YOU?
Bob Keller

Over the course of my sixteen years as Gallery Director for Eclectic Art & Objects Gallery I have often heard the words, "I don't know anything about art," or, "I don't trust my own taste in art." Both are honest concerns when purchasing original artwork, but, if the truth be told, even snobbish art experts and celebrated art critics have trouble agreeing on what is good or bad art. Even the definition of the word "ART" is somewhat confusing.

Merriam-Webster's on-line dictionary defines art as "The employment of means to accomplish some desired end," while Tolstoy claims that, "Every work of art causes the receiver (you and me) to enter into a kind of relationship with the artist and with all those who simultaneously, previously, or subsequently receive the same artistic impression.

My thoughts are different from Webster and a bit more simplistic than Tolstoy. I generally describe art as, "The process of creation and all those who acquire or even experience works of art share with the artist part of that process." The art that you hang on the walls of your home or office is a tangible result of the creative efforts of the artist. However, in a very personal way, it is also an expression of who you are, your esthetic, your interests, and your lifestyle.

So, how can you trust your own taste and personal esthetic? Start by broadening your exposure to art beyond the fad art hyped on T.V., shopping shows, or poster prints found in department stores and mall gift shops. Get out and visit local art galleries, museums, and art festivals. You will find that as you experience a variety of artists, art forms and techniques you will discover a new awareness and confidence in the artist within you.

So, look around at the walls in your home or office and ask yourself, "What does my artwork say about me?" Does it reflect your lifestyle and esthetic? Did you place the same standard of quality on your art selection as you did for the rest of your home or did you settle for a decorative art print to match the custom designed sofa? Does the artwork in your office stimulate conversation with guests and business associates or is it an innocuous wall ornament that you purchased on a business trip to Vegas? Does your artwork say something about your interests, your business, or even your success? Buy Art That You Like Most reputable galleries will tell you that the first rule in buying artwork is to buy what you like and what you have a connection to.

I also recommend that before you buy artwork, audition it for a few days in your home or office. If you can't bring yourself to pull it back down, buy it! Buy Art That Is Within Your Budget Prices for original artwork can range from a few hundred dollars for a painting into the millions of dollars depending on the artist, subject, and demand. You will probably pay more for art on your vacation to Hawaii or Vegas than in Pittsburgh or Cleveland and definitely more for a Picasso than a starving artist.
Be careful of dealers who sell art as an investment. Leave investment to the professionals.

My advice remains… buy art that you like and can afford!

In subsequent articles I will be covering topics such as:
1. The care and feeding of your artwork
2. Discovering the art around you
3. Selecting framing that compliments your artwork
4. Theme walls…bring memories to life 5. Art restoration and repair


Bob Keller is a Gallery Director of Eclectic Art & Objects Gallery's two Pittsburgh locations (Emsworth and Design Zone) where he provides consultation to commercial and residential art buyers, and manages the Fine Art Publishing and artist marketing divisions.
Bob is a member of FAPA, PPFA and Industry member of ASID. For more questions relating to this article, contact Mr. Keller at 412-734-2099 at rkeller@eclecticartgallery.com