Expert Tips from Gallery Insiders at Affordable Art Fair 

Have you ever wondered how to navigate the vibrant, dynamic world of art? Whether you’re a seasoned or budding collector, the journey of purchasing art can be both exhilarating and daunting. Our galleries, with their extensive knowledge and passion for art, are dedicated to helping you find the perfect pieces that resonate with your taste and style. They bring years of experience and a deep understanding of both emerging and established artists, ensuring that your buying experience is nothing short of extraordinary. 

So, how do you make your first or next art purchase memorable and insightful? Let’s explore some tried-and-true tips from our expert gallery voices.  

Follow Your Instincts  

With 30 years of experience in the art world and a passion for curation, Project Gallery 90‘s proprietor, Kate Hopkinson-Pointer, is adept at helping her local clientele find the perfect artwork to fit their taste and budget. Her golden piece of advice: “Always buy from the heart”. 

Your art collection should reflect your personal taste and the stories you want to tell. Trust your instincts. If a piece resonates with you, that’s often a strong indicator that it’s worth considering. Remember, art is about passion as much as it is about investment. 

Engage with the Art Community  

Philippa Demase, a long-time art collector, was disheartened by the unwelcoming nature of many galleries at other art events. Longing for a space where beautiful, original art could be enjoyed without stress or judgment led her to found the creation of Art to Art, a gallery that embodies warmth and respect. It’s no wonder that when we sat down with Philippa to pick her brain about buying art, this sentiment of community was shared in her hero piece of advice.  

Immerse yourself in the local art scene. Attend gallery openings, visit artist studios, and participate in discussions. Engaging with artists and fellow art enthusiasts provides deeper insights and enriches your collecting journey. Affordable Art Fair itself is a perfect venue to meet creators and discover their narratives.  

Gallery Stockrooms hold hidden treasure 

Nestled within the picturesque historic village of Berrima, Whitewall Art Projects is housed in the longest-running private art gallery in the Southern Highlands. Adorning the gallery walls is a collection of bold Australian and international contemporary artworks curated by New York-bred artist and designer Thomas Bucich. Yet, Thomas shares with us that what you see when you enter a gallery isn’t always the entire picture, and there is often a stockroom full of artworks hidden close by. 

Did you know that many of the galleries at the Affordable Art Fair build a stockroom into their stand? If you have your eye on a painting slightly out of your budget, it’s always a great idea to ask if they have a smaller artwork by the same artist in their stockroom.

Set a Budget  

Setting a budget before you begin looking for your next artwork can help streamline your search while keeping your financial limits in check. Remember, great pieces don’t always come with hefty price tags! Discovering hidden gems is one of the most fascinating aspects of building a collection. As Philippa Demase suggests, “Determine how much you’re willing to spend before you start looking. This will help you narrow down your choices and avoid overspending. There are many incredible affordable originals in all sizes to kick start any collection.” 

By listening to your instincts, immersing yourself in the art community, and knowing the right places to search, your quest in curating a personal collection can be an incredibly enriching journey. Join us at the upcoming Affordable Art Fair Sydney to meet 55+ gallery professionals and discover the joy of collecting art this 13 – 16 June. Happy collecting!