Buying art from an emerging artist can be an exciting way to discover something original and personal. You may find work that feels more distinctive than mass-produced wall art, while also supporting an artist at an earlier stage of their career.
But with so many artists, galleries, open studios, art fairs and online platforms to explore, how do you decide what is worth buying?
There is no single formula. The most important consideration is whether you genuinely want to live with the artwork. However, a few practical points can help you make a confident choice.
Start with the artwork, not the artist’s reputation
When you’re buying from an emerging artist, their name may not mean much to you yet. That’s part of the appeal. Rather than concentrating on how established the artist is, start by asking yourself what you respond to in the work.
Do you like the colours, composition, subject matter or materials? Does it make you stop and look for longer? Art doesn’t have to match your sofa or coordinate perfectly with your existing interior. In fact, something with a little contrast can give a room much more personality.
If you keep coming back to a particular piece, that’s often a more useful starting point than trying to predict whether the artist will become well known.
Consider the size and where it will go
It is easy to fall in love with a piece in a gallery or studio and discover that it feels completely different when you get it home.
Before buying, measure the space where you are thinking of displaying it. Consider the wall itself, nearby furniture and how much visual space you want the artwork to have.
Don’t forget to check the dimensions of the artwork separately from the overall framed dimensions. A piece may need a mount and frame, which will increase its finished size.
For larger works, also consider how you will get them into the room. Staircases, narrow hallways and doorways can all affect what is practical.
Think about how it will be presented
Framing is part of the presentation of an artwork, whether a print, drawing, painting, or photograph.
The frame doesn’t necessarily need to match the rest of the room. Contemporary artwork can work beautifully with a traditional-looking frame, while a simple frame can allow a particularly strong image to take centre stage.
For works on paper, a suitable mount can also create space between the artwork and its surroundings, helping it to stand out while providing an important layer of protection.
If you’re buying something you expect to keep for many years, it is worth discussing the options with a professional framer before deciding how the finished piece should look.
Ask about the artwork’s condition
If you’re buying an original work, look at it carefully before committing to the purchase. Check for any marks, damage or changes to the surface and ask whether the work has previously been displayed or framed.
This is particularly relevant when buying artwork at an open studio, art fair or secondary market rather than directly from the artist. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A reputable artist or gallery should be happy to provide information about the work.
Buy something you’ll enjoy living with
It can be tempting to think about whether an emerging artist might become more successful in the future. However, there are no guarantees when it comes to the future value of an artwork. A much simpler question is whether you like it.
You may see a painting that reminds you of a particular place, a print that works perfectly with your home or an unusual piece that simply makes you happy whenever you see it. Those personal connections are part of what makes collecting art enjoyable.
Look beyond the obvious places
Emerging artists aren’t only found in established galleries. Open studios, graduate exhibitions, artist-led spaces, smaller galleries and art fairs can all be excellent places to discover new work.
London has a particularly active network of artists and creative spaces, with different neighbourhoods offering their own communities and styles.
Visiting exhibitions in person can also help you understand what you like. You might discover that your taste is broader than you expected once you start seeing different artists and mediums.
Give the artwork room to become part of your home
Buying from an emerging artist is ultimately about finding something that connects with you. Take your time, ask questions about the work, understand what you’re buying and think carefully about how it will be displayed.