Would you put it on your wall?

Buying original Canadian art work doesn't have to be a difficult experience.
What it does involve is a bit of leg work, asking and listening. And relationships. In my particular case, I was able to pickup a couple of original pieces by a local artist simply by getting involved with the local studio tour that runs every year in my area.

We visited a few of the studios, talked with the artists and decided if after seeing the art work in person that we either wanted to own a piece or to move on.  I picked up 2 small pieces that inspired me. I smartly stayed within my budget and didn't compromise by buying something that was economical yet didn't appeal to my visual tastes.

Ultimately, buying art is about appealing to your sense of artistic taste.  One person's Mona Lisa is another persons velvet Elvis painting.  If it doesn't make you feel positive, you probably won't like it hanging in your home.

Take this picture for example. A study on minimalism and pattern.  To some this might appeal as being a cool-toned work that evokes a feeling of calm. To others it might be lacking excitement and a full colour spectrum. It all comes down to what drives the viewer. What makes them light up inside.

I find that I tend to notice simple compositions such as this more and more. Some of my print customers have a similar sense of design and give images with this sort of design philosophy high marks. Sales are going well.
Buying original Canadian art can be a pleasant and thoroughly enjoyable process. But it takes time.  Look at a wide range of work and decide on what appeals to your visual taste and what lies within your budget.

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