How do I know what art to buy?
Over three decades of being in the art business, representing artists, and then becoming an artist myself, I have met many many people who say, “I don’t know anything about art, so I don’t know what to buy.” I have always responded to this from my heart. Buy art that talks to your soul and moves you. Don’t ever let anyone talk you into buying a piece of art. You’re the one who will take that piece of art home and live with it for the rest of your life. The art you choose should evoke an emotion in you, whether it be calmness, happiness, or perhaps a spark that is ignited deep in your soul. The last thing you want is to question your decision. Once you get home with your artwork, thoughts in your head shouldn’t be, why did I buy this, it was the sales person who actually loved it not me!
I have witnessed individuals view a painting and become very emotional. Some would say "I don’t know what’s happening to me, but this wave of emotion has come over me looking at the piece of art. I need to take that home." That’s how you should choose art in my opinion.
A gallery director in Honolulu once called me that one of my large modern pieces, The Beach, had sold. The buyer wanted to meet me. I popped down to the gallery, and the gentleman told me that he had walked into the gallery and caught a glimpse of my painting, which made him stop, back up and just look at the painting. He said his knees went weak, and he thought he was going to collapse. I was humbled that my art could bring about such a reaction! I met him again, a few months later at an art show along with his wife. His wife proceeded to tell me that they had a special alcove built in their living room with two spotlights to enhance my painting. Wow! What a humbling compliment. I am so happy I brought them so much happiness.
So bottom line, buy art that grabs your heart and speaks to your soul!
Much Aloha,
Sylvia Makk