There is an interesting article in the latest news letter from the Antiques Roadshow concerning the three reasons why people buy art and antiques.
The reasons are: furnishing, collecting and investing.
Furnishing is when you are decorating your home. Once your home is decorated, you are done.
If you are a collector, there is no house big enough or budget large enough to satisfy your passion. You have a true love and connection to your art.
Investing takes patience and passion. An investor will pass on the unknown but interesting piece for the safer and documented work of art.
So which is the wisest course of action and which category do you fall in? Do you fit only in one category or are do you fall into all three?
I personally fall more into the collector's category. My home is furnished with the art and antiques that I love. Most of my collection has increased in value which is an added benefit.
So, what is the best advice? Always buy what you love. Learn everything that you can. The more you learn the more you truly appreciate and love the art.
The easiest way to learn is to visit museums and galleries. Attend shows and meet the artist. Dealers and artists are always willing to share their passion with you.
Illustrated is the original oil painting, "Squidding" by Churchill Ettinger. He is one of America's top sporting artist. You can learn more about him at
Ettinger
