Buying Affordable Art

Buying original works of art is no longer the preserve of the wealthy. This book reveals that good quality pieces at reasonable prices are available to buy. In a practical and accessible style, Hugh St Clair begins by considering the important questions Why buy art? and What is art? He then covers each of the visual arts – including drawing, painting, prints, posters, photographs, sculpture, and multimedia – including historical background, buying guidelines, and useful contacts and references. Buyer’s tips are highlighted throughout. In later chapters he explains how to get the best deals and avoid pitfalls; how and where are the best places to buy; the insurance, tax, and licensing implications for your pieces; how to best avoid buying fakes or frauds; and how to care, display, and restore your art. In addition to relevant terms being explained and useful references being provided throughout, the book includes a glossary describing art movements and a directory supplying more general websites, auction houses, galleries, museums, and fairs.