Purchasing a piece of art that carries the tradition and history of multiple millennia can undoubtedly be a daunting task if the buyer is unfamiliar with its iconography and nuances. Also, investing in indigenous art is much more than finding a random painting to hang on the wall. Aboriginal art has flourished globally, with celebrities showing keen interest in adding indigenous art to their collection. With art centers like Wentworth Galleries coming to Australia, art enthusiasts can buy aboriginal art of the highest order at affordable price points. However, one needs to do the necessary homework and make educated decisions beforehand to end up with an art piece that is both ethical and unique. The paintings that one collects speak a lot about their character and tastes. Hence, one should arrive at something they would be proud of owning. Here is a list for you to follow while buying aboriginal art.
PROVENANCE
Provenance confirms the authenticity of a piece of art. The documentation summarises the most important details regarding an artwork, such as its creator, chronology, location, and estimated value. Provenance is mandatory to check the art’s genuineness. It can appear in diverse forms— such as a signed certificate, an authentication sticker/label or statement from a notable authority, images provided by the artist, and so forth. Unscrupulous agents are aware of the importance of provenance and hence have begun to fabricate it to trick inexperienced purchasers. Therefore, buy aboriginal art only from authorised galleries to avoid unpleasant circumstances.
DETAILING
Most of the aboriginal artists represent their community’s identity through their artworks. Each smudge and dot in an aboriginal artwork has its significance. Experiences unique to their community’s collective consciousness might not be easily readable for inexperienced eyes. Hence, it is advised to take an experienced art advisor along with you to give you a good idea of the artwork’s detailing and nuances.
FIND WHAT YOU LOVE!
Aboriginal art is inspiring, provocative and gorgeous. Many collectors consider it as an essential heirloom. Hence, one should confidently invest in indigenous art as it will never go out of date. The price that one pays is not just for the value of the artwork or the gallery’s reputation but is also a gesture of appreciation for the artist. So, purchase what you feel is the best from the lot. Nobody likes living in a home that they do not want for 15 years just because they got it for a cheaper rent at the time of shifting. The same goes for art. Every artwork is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed.
BUY FROM A REPUTABLE GALLERY
Make sure that the purchase is made from an established art gallery with at least 15 years of experience in the art industry. Ensure that the gallery manager(s) source their artworks ethically and have enough information and knowledge about ethical selling. If possible, get in connection with the gallery manager beforehand and confirm their industry experience and goodwill in recent times. One modern option is going for Google reviews posted by previous buyers about the gallery and the artworks. Ethical galleries will not hesitate to provide the potential buyer with information that will confirm the artwork’s provenance.
Hannah Gilbert is a freelance writer who offers to ghostwrite, copy writing, and blogging services. She works closely with B2C and B2B businesses providing digital marketing content that gains social media attention and increases their search engine visibility.
