A Complete Guide to Buying Art For Your Home

 

Let’s get one thing straight, art is subjective. What appeals to one individual may repel another. We aren’t here to tell you which art is better than another, merely how to identify the type of art that suits your personality, how to obtain it, where to look for it and what touches you can add to create some artistry in your home. That said, there are some artists, galleries and decorative interior design options that are well suited for those looking to create a certain quality of style in their luxury home; we can certainly point you in the right direction to find those.

 
 

Art as Home Décor

Art can be so many things. As well as its multiple mediums, it can be sophisticated, funny, comforting, striking, soothing or another provocatively emotive generator, so it is important to find the art that is right for you, your home and the space in which it is to live.

Perhaps you would like a landscape that reminds you of your country home in your city centre apartment? Maybe a relaxing seascape to remind you to visit the water? Or would you prefer something powerful that reinvigorates the soul whenever you see it? The key is to make sure that the art you buy for your home is the right size and composition to fit in your home and create the atmosphere that you seek.

 

1. Sotheby's Art Collection.jpg Sotheby's Art Collection
 
 

Fine Art for Sale

As you can imagine for an organisation who is so closely tied to one of the world’s most revered and prestigious auction houses, we have somewhat of an inside track into the world of fine art.

The exquisite and extensive fine art collection available at Sotheby’s includes photography, sculptures and paintings from a wide range of artists, periods and movements. This is the perfect destination to find hidden gems and timeless classics that can help you curate a home collection worthy of reverence. One of the added benefits of working with an expert purveyor like Sotheby’s is the knowledge you have access to. They can advise you on styles, budgets and genres that would suit your needs and home best. They also have exclusive access to private collections and an international network of collectors through whom the acquisition of even the finest artistic décor is usually possible.

 

5. Buying Art from Sotheby's.jpg Sotheby's Art Auction in London, United Kingdom
 

 

Art Buying Tips

No matter how much of a novice you may consider yourself to be, do not feel daunted by the prospect of buying art for your home. You, and your home, are worthy of artistic expression and galleries or auction houses of repute will always be available to assist those with an eye for creativity and beauty. Other than confidence in your own taste, here are some other top tips from Vogue on how to buy art from your home:

 
 

Custodian of the artist, not just their work.

The more you can connect with artists, the more engaged you will be with their creations and the more they will trust you to be a custodian of their work.

 

2. Art for Your Home.jpg Buying Art for Your Home

 

Trust Your Instincts and Personal Taste

Ultimately, art is a deeply personal choice. Choose pieces that resonate with you on an emotional level and align with your aesthetic preferences. Trust your instincts and seek art that brings you joy and enriches your life. Don't solely chase trends or potential financial gains; genuine appreciation for the art should be your primary motivation.

 

3. Private Art Collection.jpg Private Art Collection in Your Home

 

Less of a commodity and more of a treasure

Unless you are a savvy investor with a collectible’s portfolio, art is less of a commodity and more of a treasure. Pick pieces that speak to you, not just ones from artists that ‘everyone is talking about’.

 

4. Buying Art for Your Home.jpg How to Buy Art for Your Luxury Home
 
 

Home Art Collections

Great art can often last beyond a lifetime, becoming a treasured item that is passed down through the generations. Possessions of this value should be considered as anchor pieces in your home, with the potential to lay the foundation for the setting the tone of a room. If you have a beloved art piece you want to use in a space, be it a sculpture or painting, think about its proportions, its colours and its themes and how best to mirror, enhance or connect to that with the remaining design of the room.
Make sure to take into account the mood that the art is likely to invoke and whether it will work in the room you have chosen; for example, you may not want something too dark or morose in a kitchen or family room. Also, it is crucial for you to ensure you have the correct lighting and, if required, frame for your art piece so as to celebrate its wonders rather than risk drowning it out or devaluing its story.
 
 

Whatever type of art collection you would like to grow, you can always reach out to the experts first with any questions and advise - Sotheby’s Auction House in New Bond Street might be a good start.