Why We Hesitate to Buy Art

Just read a fantastic article this morning sent to me by one of my artists (thanks, Eric!). The article speaks about how we experience a natural hesitancy to purchase art and it mentions some very specific points on how to handle the process. I found it really interesting because it covered some points that I often mention to my clients.

Like the author of the article, I have managed a gallery for almost eight years and still find it amazing that people hesitate to purchase things when it is obvious that they really want a piece and they really love it. Some points to consider when we stand in our own way before an art purchase:

Don't be afraid to buy art on impulse. Most art is purchased on impulse and one should not beat themselves up about this. This is absolutely okay. Art evokes emotion and emotion is what attracts you to the piece. Over-analyzing that emotion is pointless. It's like trying to over-analyze any other emotion-generally it doesn't work. You're also supporting a local gallery and an artist with your purchase and both of these entities will continue to be around because of this support. Every little bit helps.

Now, let's say you don't go for the impulse buy. If you are still thinking about a piece the next day, call the gallery back and purchase it. You will kick yourself if a one of a kind work of art escapes you because you hesitated. Creative Genius offers clients the ability to hold a piece for 24 hours with no deposit to help you avoid this pitfall. And you might not realize how many times someone has called back for a piece, only to find that it went home on an impulse buy. If you like it and you are thinking about it after leaving the gallery, buy it. Most galleries, including Creative Genius, offer payment plans like layaway and other methods to make purchasing the piece easier. 

Don't worry about what others think about your choice of art. Your choice is what speaks to you. It is truly irrelevant if it speaks to anyone else. There are plenty of genres of art that some folks find confusing, disturbing or just plain weird. Those same genres attract many collectors. You just never know what will appeal to people and therefore, when choosing your own, stick to what appeals to you. Your neighbor/sister/ best friend can worry about what appeals to them and should not have anything to say about your choices.

When it's time (and you'll know when), give the piece away or sell it to someone so that someone else can enjoy it with a fresh set of eyes.Sometimes art will stay with you forever and sometimes it just won't and either way is okay.

Thank you to  Meegan Holland | The Grand Rapids Press
Great article!