Start your art collection without breaking the bank
WITH WORLD ART Dubai rolling into town for a fourth season, you don’t need to spend a fortune to display beautiful works of art in your office or home. Owning a couple of real pieces of art is one of those life goals that often seem both out of reach and overwhelming. But if you think that art has to come at the kind of prices that makes collecting it appear a hobby for Russian oligarchs then think again – World Art Dubai is back today, and with artwork on sale for just $100 - $20,000, you most certainly don’t need riches to get your foot in the game. Just start small and your collection will soon grow, as resident artist and World Art Dubai curator Zaahirah Muthy knows all too well.
Here are her top tips on starting your very own art collection without breaking the bank:
• With galleries, auctions, exhibitions and stores, it can be very confusing just knowing where to start. For first time buyers, always opt for an exhibition - not only do they make it possible to peruse the maximum number of galleries and artists in a minimum amount of time, said artists and gallery owners tend to be on hand too, to help guide you through your options.
• Look before you buy. Many fairs will display artwork for sale on the website prior to the show, so it’s possible to do a little window shopping before you even attend. You can even follow the artists and galleries you like on Instagram and join mailing lists. The more art you see, the more you develop your eye and it will also help you weed out what you like and what you don’t like, saving invaluable time and hassle on the day.
• Shop smartly. While art at big fairs can be typically pricey, when a fair enters its final day, prices can often be negotiated on works that haven’t moved. Take advantage!
• Photography and prints are a great place to start – they are original artworks but generally tend to more affordable. World Art Dubai is swimming with them, and there’s even a brand new digital photography section this year you should definitely check out if you’re after something a little different!
• If you’re considering buying work from emerging or underrepresented artists, there are a few things to pay attention to. Make sure you check out their CV and see if they have done any group exhibitions or received some press attention – this will tell you if they are active and committed to their profession.
• Remember art is often an investment, so don’t worry about splashing a little extra cash. Go for time-tested artists whose work will appreciate, or new and upcoming talent who are destined for greatness.
• If you are heading to World Art Dubai this season, make sure you check out the ‘Art for Every Wall’ section – it’s a dedicated area featuring artworks from over 50 artists in a price range of Dhs500 to Dhs3,000, providing the perfect opportunity for new buyers to take their first steps as art buyers and collectors.
• Only pick what makes you pause – you know the feeling if you’ve ever walked in front of a painting and frozen in awe. Most people tend to forget the point of art is to evoke emotion, so most importantly, buy something you like – after all, it’s your wall it’s going to hang on, so best to have something you enjoy looking at!
World Art Dubai 2018 is on at the Dubai World Trade Centre, 2pm to 9pm from Wednesday April 18 to Saturday April 21; tickets cost Dhs25 on site and Dhs20 online. For more information, visit www.worldartdubai. com