As an artist, I've always believed in the value of art—not just in terms of aesthetics, but in the personal connections and stories that art carries with it. My journey as an independent artist has been closely intertwined with collecting art, and I want to share a bit about how that came to be and why investing in art you love can be such a rewarding experience.
When I first started out, like many young artists, my resources were limited. I didn't have the funds to buy the things I needed to furnish my home or studio, but I did have one valuable resource: my own artwork. I began swapping pieces of my art for things I needed. It was an unconventional approach, but it allowed me to acquire what I needed for my home, while sharing my work with people who genuinely appreciated it.
A growing collection
As my career grew, so did my art collection. I started acquiring pieces from other artists whose work I admired. I wasn't just collecting art; I was investing in it—not with the expectation of financial return, but because each piece spoke to me in a way that made it invaluable.
Investing in art isn't just about the monetary value a piece might gain over time. It's about surrounding yourself with work that inspires you, reflecting your experiences and making your environment meaningful to you. The pieces I've collected over the years are more than just decorations—they're reminders of where I've been, the people I've met, and the journey I've taken.
Connecting with your art
As an artist, it's natural to be influenced by those who've come before us, whose work resonates deeply and offers new perspectives. For me, George Large was one such artist who had a profound influence on my early allotment paintings.
Larger than life
George Large has a unique talent for bringing to life the everyday people who inhabit industrial settings, infusing his characters with personality. I admire how he balances the grit of industrial landscapes with the humanity of the figures he portrays, creating scenes rich in detail and narrative. This approach spoke to me on a personal level as I began to explore the theme of allotments. I eventually reached out to the artist and asked if he would be willing to paint two allotment themed works, in his unique style. The paintings continue to bring so much joy every day, and will always have a place in my heart.
A Chesterfield Kaleidoscope. © The Artist & Vicar Lane Shopping Centre
Buck the Trend
My advice is simple: Invest in art you love. Don't worry about the latest decor trends or the potential future value. If a piece resonates with you, if it makes you feel something, that's the piece worth investing in. The most valuable investments are those that come from a place of love and passion, rather than profit.
Long Term Value
It is of course reassuring to know that your art investment has the potential to appreciate in value over time. Around 2008 I attended an auction where a piece by artist Geoffrey Key came up. Described as one of the most important living painters of today, prices for Key's work have steadily climbed over the years. The piece of work was on sale for around £1,200. The same piece today would be valued at around £6,000. Hindsight is a great thing!
Geoffrey Key at work in his studio. Image © geoffreykey.com
Until next time, Happy Art Collecting!