I need to find the perfect piece of art.

September 24, 2010 9:23 AM

Art novice filter: in my new office, there will be a space for a large piece of art, right next to my desk. It will hide things (computer monitor etc) some of the time and be 'rolled' away the rest of the time. I can purchase an image/print/painting, commission something or... I have no idea where to begin. Can you help?

I love art but I have little experience purchasing anything and I've never had to buy something that's going to be so in-my-face and permanent before. I want something that will require re-examination, will inspire me, but I'm at a complete loss. I have no clue as to the style that I'd like, or even if I'd like images from a graphic novel, for example.

I'd like to commission something, just because this seems like a good opportunity to pay a living artist for something, but I'm concerned I might not like it.

What should I be thinking about to guide me in this process? What can I look at or read to help me along? (FWIW, there are no art galleries where I live, nor are there any local artists whose work I would use.)

posted by HopStopDon'tShop to Media & Arts (2 answers total)

Don't try to get it right the first time. If it is at all possible, give yourself the freedom to try a number of different things. It is very difficult, especially for newbies, to know how a piece of artwork will hold up to extended viewing and how it will effect the overall feel of a room.

The best approach is to try things. If you like them, keep them. If you don't like them, replace.

That would argue against commissioning a piece for your first effort. Start out with inexpensive items, and then as you gain confidence you'll be more comfortable spending larger amounts on more significant pieces.
posted by alms at 10:56 AM on September 24, 2010

Studio Ronin.
posted by JJ86 at 2:43 PM on September 24, 2010