FAQs about buying fine art
Are you considering a purchase of original artwork, also known as Fine Art? First time or seasoned art collectors sometimes want to know a little more about their art investment . Here are a few commonly asked questions. If you don't see your question or want even more of a detailed answer, feel free to contact me and I'll be happy to address your query.
Should I buy artwork as an investment?
There are plenty of articles about investing in "up and coming artists". Of course no one can accurately predict if an artist's work is going to jump up in value or not. Unless you're planning to just store it away, you will probably be hanging it on your walls for yourself and others to see. With this in mind, it's important that you actually enjoy the artwork. Yes, it's possible that the artwork you are collecting will someday increase in value but if you don't like looking at it, don't buy it.
How do I care for my painting?
If you purchased a painting you probably want it to last a long time. Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight. Don't use any chemical cleaners on the surface. If you have to store it away or want to frame it, be sure the materials you use are acid free and made for storing artwork. Same care should be taken with prints.
Do I own the image rights when I buy a painting?
Usually the artist retains all rights to copy or reproduce the image. You have purchased the painting and have a right to sell it but not a copy or reproduction of it. Some artists require a contract stating that if you should decide to sell the painting, you give the artist first rights to purchase it back. Some even have a clause stating that the artist must be informed if the work is ever destroyed. I don't have any such contract but I do ask that my patrons respect my artist rights and not reproduce, (in print or on the internet) without asking permission from me first.
Do you do custom work?
Yes, I do. Just tell me what you have in mind. Size, medium, color choices, subject choices. I'm pretty versitile, so give it a go. I do require 50% payment up front before undertaking a custom piece.
Do you work from photos?
Most times I prefer to work from what I see in front of me or from my imagination. I find it reflects in my work as more dynamic. In some cases I do have to use a photo reference especially if the subject is moving or unavailable.
What is a Giclee?
A Giclee is a high quality digital print using archival ink and archival paper. Sometimes produced in a limited edition. Here's a Wikipedia page on it: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gicl%C3%A9e
Do you ship?
Yes I do. The cost of shipping depends on the size and weight of the piece. I use Fed Ex because they also provide packing services and are less expensive than the Post Office or UPS. I only ship within the USA.
Where can I see your artwork displayed?
Currently I am participating in a select few Fine Art events in and around Los Angeles. Please sign up for my mailing list for updates on these events. In today's world of online marketing, I've decided to not pursue a standing gallery in order to offer my patrons a lower cost. A typical gallery will take 50% or more for their services. If you're in the Los Angeles area, we can always arrange a viewing by appointment.