Is art an investment? (A series in 6 parts)

Part VI -Concluding Part - Hands-on tips on buying art

The real art that we can touch and feel – that is accessible to both the senses and the pocket – is the upcoming art that is almost everywhere in India.

Every year, thousands of young artists are passing out of art colleges. Some of these young talents are excellent but are also media shy and reticent in approaching art galleries. Such talent cries out to be showcased. To be critiqued – appreciated and guided.

At Pradarshak, this is precisely what we do. We showcase young talent that appears promising with a strong potential to mature meaningfully. Each year, we try to introduce a handful of such artists in their debut solo exhibitions, giving them a taste of the professional scenario. And we look upon patrons like you to encourage these young talents to become emerging artists to reckon with.

To give you some hands-on tips on buying art –

• You must really like what you are buying. Avoid buying purely for the name of the artist. You might get stuck with works of art you cannot stand.

• Visit as many exhibitions as you can, to look at different works by a number of artists. Read up as much as you can on the art you are planning to buy and on the artist. It pays to do your homework.

• Know the artist. Talk to the artist and find out what they are about and what their art is about. Some works can look fantastic, but they could be by gimmicky artists who are copying something. Most serious art collectors will always personally know the artist behind the art they collect.

• Try and catch the artist when he or she is young. The work will be affordable.

• Artists tend to paint in series. A successful series by any artist is always worth buying; good gallery owners will guide you on this. Buy art from a good series.

• Check the age of the painting to see if the painting you are buying is a new piece or an old one.

• Scout about for a reputed art dealer whom you can trust. Ask around and get a good reference for the dealer. When you want to sell your art, always go to a reputed gallery, which will be able to evaluate the work properly and advise you well. The art world is notorious for frauds and fakes, so be warned.

• Never be compelled to buy art as soon as you enter an exhibition.

• Look after your art purchases as you would look after jewellery. 

Part I -The initiation

Part II-Sources of art information

Part III - The art collector

Part IV in the series – Is art collection restricted to big money plays?

Part V – Speculation in art