As we’re growing up – certain things are starting to seem more important to us. We’re buying houses, and signing up for medical aid and house insurance, and needing things like retirement annuities and pension funds… and it’s just very tough being an adult. There has to be a fun side of growing up, right? Collecting art has certainly become something fun for us.
Well, while most of us studied art (well, the basics of art, at least) sometime in our school going days, some leave it at the middle school door, and others go on and make this passion their career & live their beautiful, creative techni-coloured dream through their work. The very first piece of art we have collected has come from the incredible local artist, Ashleigh Smith from Fair and Square, who is following her divine passion for beautiful things, pops of colour and adding those personal touches to homes all over South Africa.
Although I did study art fairly far into life, when it came to picking something for my new home, I felt a bit lost. And it turned out, after speaking to a few other people in my situation, that this is super normal. So, we thought we’d put some of the tips together for you that we found out during our search!
MAKE THE CHOICE FOR YOU
As much as other people’s opinions matter, it’s you that has to look at the artwork every day – unless you LOVE it, don’t buy it.
STAY WITHIN BUDGET, BUT BE REASONABLE
Set yourself a budget of how much you’re willing to spend on an artwork. Not all of us have millions to invest in a grand piece, especially when you’re just starting out.
When we say be reasonable, be fair to the ‘size’ of the artwork with regards to budget. If you’re looking to redecorate the whole room, set aside the total budget and stick to it as best as you can. If the artwork will be the main feature of the room or the wall, then make that budget chunk a bit more. Obviously, if you find a well-known artist’s work at a price you can afford (albeit just above the budget) – treat yourself! You work hard and you deserve nice things.
Saying that, our suggestion would be to rather start small, and work your way up.
ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS & DO THE RESEARCH
What sort of painting do you like? Realistic or modern? Abstract or stylized? What sort of colour scheme are you looking for? Bold or muted? And then of course, you have to ask yourself if you’re looking for an investment piece or just something beautiful for now, as that should also determine your budget.
Everyone has their own tastes and styles – there’s no right or wrong choices in art, as it’s all about what’s going to add value in your life and make your environment a better, happier, more beautiful place.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO MIX UP STYLES IN YOUR HOUSE
We think was the best thing we heard someone say to us when discussing artworks and general interior decor in homes. We’ve never been the type of people to mix-n-match decor elements, but once you break free of that box – it’s so beautiful to see different styles and tonal elements coming together to make a room beautiful.
Be bold and mix up your styles of artworks and furniture. Play around with colours and texture too, for maximum impact.
THINK LONG TERM, BUT THINK OF THE NOW TOO
Obviously we all change and our tastes evolve. So as much as we say ‘get something that makes you happy now’ remember that a collectors piece can hold value in the future. If you’re looking for a fashionable bit that is going to be totally out of trend in a couple of years, adjust your spend accordingly. If you feel the artwork is a classic, spend and spend well.
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Just a quick review: We had the most incredible service from Fair and Square. Amazing personalized artwork – each one is hand painted and unique. Artwork delivered to our front door pretty much within 3 days of ordering. HUGELY impressed with the quality of the work, and LOVE how the artwork changes in every room we move it into. What a great first piece have have in our (newly) growing collection. HIGHLY recommended! All her artworks are available here, at the online store, and art individually priced.
Featured artwork – ‘Down in The Deep, 2017′ by Ashleigh Smith of Fair and Square at 40 x 40cm
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