Five Ways to Buy Art

Inspired by our guide to the art market? Here are some of the best ways to start building your collection, from online window shopping to meeting artists in person

Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of the auction, the buzz of the art fair or you prefer the calm of a private gallery, it’s never been easier to engage with the art world. ! AT A GALLERY ‘Sta" will ask if they can be of assistance,’ says gallery owner Jonathan Cooper, ‘ but, if not, they’ll leave you alone to browse. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the artist or the work itself.’ If you enjoy what’s on view in a gallery, Jonathan suggests that you get to know the dealer: ‘You’ll #nd it enjoyable and informative; it’s their business and they’re there to help and, on occasion, sell! That in itself should be a straightforward process and if the work is large, they can organise delivery as well as installation.’ $ AT AN ART FAIR Scheduled throughout the year, art fairs are busy, friendly, vibrant events and a great way to visit a huge number of galleries under one roof, says Jessica Chow, UK Fair Manager of The Other Art Fair. ‘They are the perfect places for people to learn more about what they like, as there is so much on show. Nothing beats seeing a piece in real life, especially when you can meet the artist too.’ % ONLINE Not only can you buy from the comfort of your own home, but galleries that operate exclusively online have advantages for customers that other ways of buying art would struggle to match, says Niki Browes of Artgallery.co.uk. ‘We are accessible via email and phone seven days a week and the variety we o"er – more than 2,000 global artists showing over 39,000 works of art – is unparalleled.’ & AT AUCTION Although it might seem daunting at #rst, buying at auction is great fun. Set a limit and stick to it and take advantage of the pre-sale viewings. ‘Buying at auction is o'en a lot cheaper than buying from a gallery,’ says Aubrey Dawson of Dawson’s Auctioneers. ‘But always double check the condition of what you are buying. And remember, the only silly question is the one you don’t ask!’ ( AT A DEGREE SHOW All the major art schools hold annual degree shows, which are exhibitions of work produced by students in their #nal year. Like an art fair in miniature, these events are not only the perfect opportunity to support emerging talent, but they’re also a chance to discover the Hirsts or Hockneys of the future. But remember, the normal rules still apply: buy what you like, not with a view to investment.