Everything You Need To Know About Buying Art For Your Home, From An Expert Who Knows
From finding trusted galleries to discovering exciting upcoming talent, we spoke to Lizzie Dixey, Founder of The Art Register, to hear everything you need to know about buying art for your home.
Lizzie Dixey is one name you want to have in your little black book if you’re looking to invest in art. She started her journey at an art world framer and built up an impressive network of galleries, curators and artists over the years. It was only a matter of time before Lizzie brought all of this understanding, passion and experience – in a world that often seems so daunting to many – to create The Art Register.
Clients come to The Art Register for guidance in sourcing art for their homes, whether they have one wall to fill or are well on their way to assembling an accomplished collection. Each project is entirely unique and bespoke to the clients, from budget to style and taste, so who better to guide us through starting a collection and buying art for yourself. Here’s what Lizzie had to say…
GET INSPIRED
Go to commercial galleries – they are free and there are so many exciting young ones out there. I really like Incubator and Sapling Gallery at the moment. Paterson Zevi is very friendly and welcoming, and I always love what it shows. Living in South London, Sid Motion is a personal favourite, as are the shows at Sim Smith and Cooke Latham. Other galleries I always look to for quality are Frestonian Gallery, Seventeen Gallery and theTristan Hoare Gallery.
It’s important to see as much as you can in person. Instagram is a fantastic tool for making new discoveries, but some works will look very different when not being viewed on a back-lit screen.
GO STRAIGHT TO THE SOURCE
As well as galleries, go to degree shows and reach out directly to artists. Being an artist can be a solitary existence and most artists love to host studio visits and meet people who are interested in their work and practice. Push yourself to go to shows outside of your comfort zone and try to meet the artists where you can. Don’t be afraid to be curious and ask questions.
I’m always happy to make introductions or select works on my clients’ behalf, and I offer a guiding hand throughout the purchasing journey, whether leading on negotiations or arranging installation. frame
CHECK OUT GRADUATE SHOWS
Degree shows are always worth a look as you can get the inside track on some of the most interesting up-and-coming artists.
Slade and The Royal Drawing School are two of my personal favourites, but the RCA is also brilliant.
HEAD TO FAIRS & AUCTION HOUSES
Auction houses display lots of their sales and are free, so do make a point of popping in. It’s a great way to see works which might not previously have been shown in public before they go off to new homes.
Push yourself to go to shows outside of your comfort zone and try to meet the artists where you can. Don’t be afraid to be curious and ask questions.
REMEMBER YOU CAN WORK WITH SMALLER BUDGETS
Although most of my clients are typically looking to spend £10,000 upwards per piece, this is by no means a hard and fast rule. There are some amazing works available at lower price points – editions and works on paper are a great place to start, and photography too. Look at places like Wondering People or go to The London Original Print Fair.
BUILD CONNECTIONS WITH GALLERIES
Buy from a gallery you trust and enjoy dealing with. Some can feel unfriendly at first, so try to work out who you like. Even the most established collectors had to start somewhere, so look for galleries that are welcoming and interested in a long-term relationship with their collectors who are just starting out.
GOOD FRAMING WILL PAY OFF
Framing can be expensive, especially for larger works, but I think it can be almost as important as the artwork itself. I’d always recommend budgeting for framing, as this can make all the difference. Particularly glazing – go for the best glass you can afford, with the lowest level of reflection. It’s always worth it once the piece is installed – no one ever regrets spending money on quality framing – and it’s wonderful seeing a piece brought to life by a beautiful frame.
Interior Design – Ansell Studio / Photography – Alexander James
It’s a privilege to be able to buy beautiful things, and it ought to be enjoyable. If it isn’t, you’re probably doing it for the wrong reasons.
BE PRACTICAL
Think about practical issues too – for example, if you have small children, unprotected canvases that are vulnerable to sticky fingerprints might have to wait a year or two.
DON’T BE SEDUCED BY TRENDS
Trends in the art world can be very cyclical and it’s important not to pay too much attention. Look at everything and try to spot patterns in what you’re drawn to rather than what is “now”. Often there will be works you keep thinking about and return to. Trust your gut.
CONSIDER COMMISSIONS BUT BE CAUTIOUS
Make sure you know the terms up front and that both sides are clear on what these are. Do your research and make sure the technicalities are agreed so you can then relax and enjoy the journey.
FINALLY, BUY WHAT YOU LOVE
I always encourage my clients to buy what they love and are passionate about, and if something turns out to be a savvy investment then that’s a wonderful bonus. Advising on works that will gain value can be very tricky; the art world is unregulated, and incredibly fickle so have fun! Honestly, it’s a privilege to be able to buy beautiful things, and it ought to be enjoyable. If it isn’t, you’re probably doing it for the wrong reasons.
LIZZIE’S ONES TO WATCH IN THE ART WORLD…
For more information or to book in with The Art Register visit
www.theartregisterlondon.com
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.