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"Portrait (part)by Dawn Ogden-White - more affordable than you'd expect"
What could be more delightful in your home than an original piece of artwork?
This may sound like the preserve of the super rich, but that is far from the truth.
There are plenty of ways to find art at prices that are not prohibitive. If you steer clear of “old masters” you can discover contemporary works for sums that you might consider paying for a good quality print.
Original art not only looks better, but can represent a sound investment in the current climate. I am not advising you to sell your stocks and shares and replace them with paintings as real investment takes time, effort and expertise.
However, you will probably find that original art will retain its value and you may even be lucky enough to purchase an early work from the next Damien Hirst!
One of the best places to start is the Affordable Art Fair in Battersea Park, London. It was created with the specific aim of making buying and collecting original art a reality for many.
This bi-annual event next takes place 12th-15th March 2009 where you can see works exhibited by over 120 galleries, with prices from £50 and nothing over £3,000. For more details visit www.affordableartfair.com.
I was also recently introduced to the site www.newbloodart.com, which acts as an on-line gallery for undiscovered artists, allowing you direct access to purchase their work.
It’s incredibly well thought out and allows you to browse by artist, subject or media. You can even shop by size so that you can find a special piece to fill that particular space!
However, you do not just have to content yourself with purchasing paintings that have already been created.
Dawn Ogden-White RBAS, regularly undertakes personal commissions; sometimes to produce a work that will match an interior colour scheme.
“I enjoy working with a client to develop a special commission that I know will be particular to them and something they really love,” Dawn says, “It is wonderful to know that my work is really being appreciated and holds a special place in someone’s home.”
She has also noticed an increase in commissions for personal portraits. What could be more fabulous than surveying your guests from your own walls! (www.dawnodgenwhite.co.uk, 01636 822 597).
Even when people own art, they’re often worried about hanging it when they have completed a new decorating scheme, not wishing to damage the effect with an ill-placed hook. There’s no need to be afraid, but there are a few simple tips that will help avoid costly mistakes:
1. Hang at Eye-level: People often hang pictures too high. Aim to have yours at eye-level (assuming you are standing up!).
2. Don’t Measure: Check what looks visually correct, taking into account other objects (i.e. lights, cupboards). This can often be very different from what the tape-measure tells you.
3. Balance and Scale: Buy art that is in proportion with the wall space.
4. Don’t crowd: Leave large paintings to make a singular impact in large spaces.
5. Group Small Pictures: This is more significantly appealing than items spread around on their own. Do not feel you have to hang in a regimented fashion: experiment with ad hoc arrangements.
6. Mock Up: Cut templates of your pictures from coloured paper. Arrange these on the blank wall using removable tape. Leave them for a couple of days to see if you like them. If OK, mark through the template with a pencil where the hook should go. If not, move them around until you are satisfied.
Leading interior designer, Jamie Hempsall, is a BIDA associate. Visit his website www.jamiehempsall.com or contact him on 01777 248463
