It may come as somewhat of a surprise that empty foreign beer bottles and well-worn celebrity posters aren’t actually considered as being high art. Yes, even when you line them up above your fridge or try to put the dog-eared posters into a half decent frame, it still isn’t art, well not quality art anyway.

Buying fine art might sound like something better left to people who own a three storey London town house as a second home or can afford at the very least, a foyer. But, in actual fact, art is a good investment for anyone. Good pieces of art don’t generally decrease in value so if you can afford to do so and admire. good piece of art, it’s well worth investing in something you love.

As buying art, especially as a beginner, can be quite a daunting task, we have put together a few tips and tricks to help you navigate your way to buying a piece you’ll love.

Here is our beginners’ guide…

Know your likes

Experts have advised that even though your art could become more valuable over time, you should make your purchase primarily on the basis that it would please you to have it up in your space. So, it’s time to have some one-on-one time with your inner critic. What kind of medium are you drawn to, and what kind of look? Do you favour some artists over others, and why? The answers to these will ensure that you buy a piece you’ll love long-term.

Know your budget

Be realistic, but optimistic. Have some leeway? Keep an eye out for more established artists, and from these look to buy original works or limited edition prints. If you only have a small amount to spare, you’re not doomed to the life of a philistine, but you might want to look at artists still early in their careers and check if they have prints or reproductions available. Mediums are also important. Generally speaking, fine art photography sells for a better price than traditional oil paintings, and so on.

Know your stuff 

Do your research. Learn about local artists producing your favourite style by visiting galleries and attending shows. Speak to curators about artists in your price range, and find out what other people are saying about whoever you have in mind to support. A great company for mid-range, high-quality art is Evolution Fine Art who has something for everyone. All of this will make your eventual procurement that much more an educated, well-made decision.

Hopefully, now you will be in the best possible position when you go looking for the new addition to your art collection.