What kind of a person buys art?
I’ve found that most people feel they’re not qualified to be art collectors. There is a common misconception that art is for an elite class of people—that you have to be extraordinarily knowledgeable, cultured and rich to be able to buy original works of art.
There is definitely an established stereotype of what an “art collector” might be like. You may picture someone who was born into money, and lives in a large house with a butler. You may imagine this person going to black tie events, sailing on a private yacht, or speaking with great eloquence about fine wines. This person went to an Ivy League school, is well-read and probably speaks more than one language. These are all lovely images, and while it’s true that knowledgeable, cultured, and rich people do tend to buy art, the average art collector does not fit that stereotype.
People get this image in their minds because it’s usually the only one they’re familiar with. Everybody hears about the Van Goghs and Picassos selling for millions at auction. Rarely do you hear a news story about a middle-class person buying a piece of art made by a living artist–but it happens every day.
The truth is all kinds of people from all economic classes and professions buy original art. The only thing art collectors all have in common is that they love art enough to buy it. If you would like start an art collection, but you don’t know where to start, click here for a few pieces of general advice.
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Thanks Cedar, its nice to read this right now. I've been struggling with pushing forward with my work and using my fears of commercialism and snobbery as a scapegoat for my own laziness. Keep up the great work, your perseverance is a constant inspiration!
Thanks Patrick~ My take on it is this.
Commercialism is only bad when it hurts people or otherwise causes harm. It's good when it allows you to contribute to the world and keep growing towards bigger and better things.
Striving for greatness is not snobbery, even though others might perceive it that way. Ultimately it's about what's going on inside you that's important to your own journey.
And laziness--you would not believe, if I told you, the constant struggles I have with my own laziness. Don't let the laziness win! I often find it's more productive to re-direct energy you're already spending than to try and find more energy.
You are amazingly talented in so many ways, and I always enjoy seeing everything that you produce.
As Patrick said you are amazingly talented in so MANY ways! I am so proud to be your grandma! love, grandma
Actually, I said *he* was talented--but thanks! :-)