Digging into Fine Art…Upfront

Luxury Nest recently visited with Gallery Director Stephanie Stokes in advance of a wonderfully fun project we engaged in with a long time client with deep  interests in the arts, and she shared her suggestions on a variety of fine-art-related topics.

Get educated before you buy. Visit local galleries and museums, especially when traveling to other cities and countries. Ask the opinion of a professional in the art world. At Kodner Gallery, Stephanie, Jon or David Kodner offer personalized consultation services for the beginner as well as the experienced collector.

Know your source. Get to know whom you are doing business with. Ask questions. How long has the gallery or dealer been in business? Do they specialize in a specific kind of art? Are they specialists in conservation and restoration? Most importantly, do they guarantee what they sell? Also, if you are seeking an appraisal of your fine art, is the appraiser a certified member of a national or international appraiser’s association?

Buy within your budget. High quality, original artwork by accredited artists is accessible to those on a budget or just getting started. For instance, Kodner Gallery has a wide selection of works by regional and local artists that are priced well for the new collector.

Think about placement. When selecting your artwork, consider the space in which it will go and what kind of atmosphere this will create. Placement can be a factor in the long-term conservation of your art. For example, works on paper such as watercolors, drawings and prints should be kept out of direct sunlight and framed with UV protective glass or Plexiglas.

Framing should complement your art and your space. When choosing a frame, consider the interior design and architectural elements of your home or office. The right frame can enhance your artwork as well as the surrounding space. Framing specialists use state-of-the-art framing materials that are both stylish and of archival quality.

Mix things up and have fun. Collecting fine art is an enjoyable way to expand your knowledge, develop your eye and diversify your investments. Explore a variety of subjects, styles and periods, as well as various mediums such as works on paper, sculpture and decorative arts, such as glass, ceramics and period furniture.