How to buy art

Art purchases aren’t just for show. They’re also a solid investment to pass on to future generations.

Here are some introductory steps to help your clients get started on a building a collection of their own.

Art Acquisition

Art gallery curators are a gold mine of information and can connect you with artists as well as educate you about what makes a painting valuable. If you’re not inclined to gallery hop, however, the following resources can help:

Auction Houses

Expertise at auction houses is deep and many offer curation and appraisal services as well.

• bonhams.com
• sothebys.com
• christies.com
• waddingtons.ca

Art Buyer

Brokers exist to help you acquire art that suits your tastes, the environment it’s going in, and the budget you’re working with. You can usually try out pieces at home before you buy.

• artanywhere.com

Website

Internet sites offer in-depth information on global art markets and art events.

• artdaily.org
• artasanasset.com
• artmarket.com

Trend Alert

Canadian art, with a focus on modernist and contemporary works, is now one of the hottest markets in private collecting, says Mary Sue Rankin, owner of the Edward Day Gallery in Toronto. Elle AyoubZadeh of Art Anywhere says her clients favour large, colourful abstract pieces.