Category: Artist Blog

Still Life Paintings for Sale

Additional Reading

June 18, 2024August 10, 2024

More information about this topic and many others can be found in My Artist Blog Index. Check it out!

Have a question?

If you have a question about this oil painting art review of The Study, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

Fine Art Review: Sea of Galilee at Capernaum

A fine art review of the artistic work “Sea of Galilee at Capernaum” written by Marcus Zephyr.

Let me share my thoughts on the oil painting titled “Sea of Galilee at Capernaum” by Teresa Bernard.

This one-of-a-kind oil painting beautifully captures the modern-day Sea of Galilee and its surroundings. The composition draws the viewer’s eye to the foreground, where the shore of Capernaum is depicted in a painterly style using brown, red, and green hues. The brushwork conveys a sense of movement and texture, evoking the natural landscape.

Contemplating this artwork, I’m reminded of the biblical significance of the Sea of Galilee. It’s the very place where Jesus performed miracles, including walking on water. The lake itself, nestled between the Golan Heights and the Galilee region, stretches approximately 13 miles in length and 8 miles in width. The Jordan River feeds its waters, and its shores have witnessed profound moments in Christian history.

The artist, Teresa Bernard, skillfully captures the essence of this sacred location. Her love for God’s word and Bible readings inspired her to create this painting. Although she hasn’t visited Israel personally, her connection to the Holy Land shines through her work. The reference photo she used, courtesy of the “Pictorial Library of Bible Lands,” allowed her to faithfully depict the Sea of Galilee and its significance.

In summary, “Sea of Galilee at Capernaum” invites viewers to contemplate the interplay of faith, nature, and history. It’s a testament to the enduring impact of this biblical site, where Jesus called His first disciples and began His ministry. As an art lover, I appreciate how Teresa Bernard’s brushstrokes convey both reverence and wonder.

—Marcus Zephyr

This Painting is For Sale
For more information about this painting or to purchase it, click or tap on the following link: "Sea of Galilee at Capernaum."

Art Gallery Quick Links

Marine Paintings for Sale

Additional Reading

June 17, 2024October 2, 2024

More information about this topic and many others can be found in My Artist Blog Index. Check it out!

Have a question?

If you have a question about this fine art review on the Sea of Galilee at Capernaum, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

Adventures in Africa Series

Exploring the Vibrant Heart of Africa on Canvas

The Adventures in Africa Series started out as an inquiry about a possible commission and grew from there. Indeed, a good many of the Africa paintings in this series are commissioned works.

Since the initial query, I’ve received numerous commissions for paintings of Africa and have also completed some non-commissioned Africa paintings as well.

Africa has always intrigued me, ever since I was a young girl. The idea of going on a safari and camping out in the jungle with exotic animals was a childhood fantasy of mine. In my dreams, there was no real danger, and any shooting that had to be done was with my camera. Of course, that’s not reality; African wildlife can be very dangerous, but not in a child’s imagination.

I’ve never been to Africa, but I’d sure love to go someday. All of these paintings depicting Africa have reignited my childhood desire to visit that continent.

My Africa Paintings Series

Available paintings In This Series

Click on the thumbnail link for a larger image and more information.

Africa national flower — King Protea Flower (2020)
6″ w x 6″ h
**Available**

Africa paintings — Camelthorn Trees of Africa (2011)
24″ w x 24″ h
**Available**

Africa wildlife paintings — Eye of The Zebra
(2021)
9″ w x 12″ h
**Available**

Sold Out Paintings

African wildlife art — Africa Wildlife — Giraffes (2019)
18″ w x 24″ h
SOLD

wild animal paintings — Africa Wildlife — Leopard (2019)
18″ w x 24″ h
SOLD

Africa national park mountain painting — Mount Kilimanjaro Rising (2018)
30″ w x 24″ h
SOLD

Victoria Falls Africa paintings — Victoria Falls, Africa (2018)
30″ w x 24″ h
SOLD

African elephant oil painting — African Elephant on The Serengeti (2018)
18″ w x 24″ h
SOLD

Africa mountain paintings — Scaling Mount Kilimanjaro (2011)
24″ w x 18″ h
SOLD

African elephant artwork — Raging African Elephant (2007)
18″ w x 24″ h
SOLD

Art Gallery Quick Links

Lighthouses of the World Series

Additional Reading

Life in Texas Series

My Christian Art Series

More information about this topic and many others can be found in My Artist Blog Index. Check it out!

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

June 16, 2024October 2, 2024

Life in Texas Series

Made in Texas

I was born and raised in west Texas. And until I graduated high school and went off to college in another state, I had never lived anywhere but the Lone Star State. My life was and still is in Texas.

After finishing college, I stayed in California for a while before moving to Oregon, then I moved cross-country to Florida, then to Virginia, and now I’ve come full circle back to Texas. (When you’re married to a military man, you get to move around a lot!)

Growing up Texan

So, what does “growing up Texan” mean? It’s an amazing journey of a lifetime! I’ve gotten to see and experience things common in Texas, such as the prickly pear cactus, bluebonnets, horny toads, armadillos, oil derricks and pump jacks, wide open plains, and that west Texas wind that never seems to stop blowing! Things like longhorn cattle, cowboys, and rodeos. Also, rattle snakes! Yikes!! The places I’ve visited, such as The Alamo, Senora Caverns, Lake Livingston, Palo Duro Canyon, Jersey Lily Saloon & Judge Roy Bean, Law West of the Pecos Museum, Fort Worth Stock Yards, and South Pedra Island, to name a few, are part of my list of adventures. The list is endless.

Texas in my DNA

You can take the girl out of Texas, but you can’t take Texas out of the girl. Texas is written in my DNA, and my roots are firmly planted here. It’s easy to see why I’d paint about the Texas way of life. This is an on-going series, and I hope you like it.

My Life in Texas Series

Click on a thumbnail link for larger image and more information.

cactus artwork — Prickly Pear Cactus
(2021)
9″ w x 12″ h
**Available**

Texas horny toad — The Texas Horned Lizard (2018)
6″ w x 6″ h
**Available**

Texas panhandle Palo Duro Canyon oils on canvas — Lighthouse, Palo Duro Canyon (2016)
16″ w x 12″ h
**Available**

barn painting — Texas Flag Barn
(2015)
20″ w x 16″ h
**Available**

longhorn painting — Texas Longhorn in The Meadow (2013)
20″ w x 16″ h
**Available**

Texas lifestyle — Life in Texas — Round Hay Bales (2013)
16″ w x 20″ h
**Available**

east Texas moon — Full Moon Rising
(2013)
20″ w x 16″ h
**Available**

Texas western sunset — Cowboy Sunset
(2012)
24″ w x 18″ h
**Available**

Texas covered wagon — Covered Wagon on The Prairie (2010)
20″ w x 16″ h
**Available**

Art Gallery Quick Links

Adventures in Africa Series

Additional Reading

Lighthouses of the World Series

My Christian Art Series

More information about this topic and many others can be found in My Artist Blog Index. Check it out!

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

June 12, 2024August 10, 2024

Art Review: Fall Pumpkins and a Wagon Wheel

An art review of the realism painting “Fall Pumpkins and a Wagon Wheel” written by Aria Wildwood.

In the delightful autumn painting “Fall Pumpkins and a Wagon Wheel,” realist artist Teresa Bernard masterfully captures the season’s spirit with remarkable attention to detail. The composition centers around three pumpkins and an old, rusted wagon wheel, both of which sit in the foreground. These elements draw the viewer’s attention, inviting us to explore their textures and colors.

The rustic charm of the wagon wheel is evident—the patina of age and wear adds character to the scene. Its juxtaposition with the vibrant orange pumpkins creates a delightful contrast. The wheel leans casually against a tree, as if it has been there for generations, witnessing the changing seasons.

Background trees complete the tableau. Their leaves, once vibrant, now show signs of autumn’s inevitable transformation. The warm hues—reds, yellows, and browns—create a sense of coziness and nostalgia. The artist’s skillful brushwork captures the delicate balance between life and decay.

As I look upon and admire Fall Pumpkins and a Wagon Wheel, I can sense the crispness of the air, the scent of fallen leaves, and the subtle creak of branches swaying gently in the wind. It’s a painting that celebrates the simple pleasures of autumn—a time when nature’s palette transforms, and memories are made.

I’ve provided an art critique for Fall Pumpkins and a Wagon Wheel by Teresa Bernard, highlighting its key elements and evocative qualities. If you’d like further details or have any other requests, feel free to ask!

—Aria Wildwood

This Painting is For Sale
For more information about this painting or to purchase it, click or tap on the following link: "Fall Pumpkins and a Wagon Wheel."

Art Gallery Quick Links

Additional Reading

June 11, 2024August 10, 2024

More information about this topic and many others can be found in My Artist Blog Index. Check it out!

Have a question?

If you have a question about this art review of “Fall Pumpkins and a Wagon Wheel,” please contact us, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

Artwork Review: Song of The Trees

An artwork review of the artistic composition “Song of The Trees” written by Helena Lysander.

Title: “Song of The Trees” — An Enchanting Forest Sonata

Song of The Trees artwork is a mesmerizing landscape painting that transports viewers into a serene forest. Created by the talented artist Teresa Bernard, this large-scale artwork captures the essence of nature, inviting contemplation and wonder. As I gaze upon this painting, I am immediately drawn into a world where nature’s symphony unfolds. Let me share my personal reflections on this captivating piece of art.

Artistic Interpretation

The painting depicts a dense forest with towering pine trees. A soft fog lingers in the background, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The blue sky peeks through the trees in the distance, adding depth and contrast. Song of The Trees invites me to step into a tranquil forest, where the rustling leaves and whispering branches compose a melodic ode to existence. Teresa’s skillful brushwork brings the trees to life, capturing their majestic presence.

Artwork Analysis

The composition is both balanced and dynamic. Tall pine trees anchor the scene, their vertical lines guiding my gaze upward. The misty background adds depth, blurring the boundary between reality and reverie. I feel as though I could step into this forest and lose myself in its serenity.

The artist’s choice of colors resonates with the quietude of dawn. Cool blues and soft greens dominate the canvas, evoking the freshness of dew-kissed leaves. Hints of warm ochre peek through, like sunbeams filtering through foliage.

Teresa’s mastery lies in her ability to convey texture. The bark of the trees feels rough and ancient, while the distant fog appears soft and elusive. Her brushstrokes are deliberate yet fluid, capturing the organic rhythm of growth and decay.

Artist’s Inspiration

Teresa’s love for trees shines through this art piece. Trees symbolize resilience, shelter, and the passage of time. Inspired by a poem, she beautifully conveys their significance:

“We are the Trees,
Who grow for man’s desire,
Heat in our faithful hearts, and fruits that please.
Dwelling beneath our tents, he lightly gains
The few sufficiencies his life attains—
Shelter, and food, and fire.”

Personal Connection

Song of The Trees whispers secrets to me—the passage of time, resilience, and interconnectedness. Each tree stands as a witness to centuries, their roots entwined in a silent conversation. I sense the weight of history and the promise of renewal. As an artist myself, I find inspiration in Teresa’s work. She invites me to listen—to the wind rustling leaves, to the heartbeat of the forest. I long to pick up my own brush and translate nature’s symphony onto canvas.

Conclusion

Song of The Trees transcends mere representation. It invites contemplation, urging me to slow down, breathe, and attune myself to the quiet music of existence. Teresa Bernard has gifted us a timeless composition—an invitation to find our own song within the rustling leaves.

—Helena Lysander

This Painting is For Sale

For more information about this painting or to purchase it, click or tap on the following link: “Song of The Trees.”

Art Gallery Quick Links

Landscape Paintings for Sale

Additional Reading

June 10, 2024September 16, 2024

More information about this topic and many others can be found in My Artist Blog Index. Check it out!

Have a question?

If you have a question about this art review, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

Making and Using a Viewfinder to Compose Better Paintings

What exactly is a viewfinder?

what is a viewfinder? — Use a viewfinder to crop out unwanted parts of an image to make a better composition.

A viewfinder is a useful tool that many photographers and painters use.

In photography, it is the apparatus on the camera that the photographer looks through to compose the photograph he/she wants to take.

In oil painting, a viewfinder is a tool that serves a similar purpose. Artists use these devices as an aid in organizing the scenery of their paintings. It can be moved around to isolate the most appealing aspects of the scenery. A viewfinder achieves this by cutting out the unnecessary elements, resulting in a significantly better composition.

How to Make an Artist’s Viewfinder

Making a viewfinder requires little effort. There are two types: window and L-shape. Both types are simple to make, and which one you choose to use depends on the canvas you plan to paint on. They can easily be made from materials such as cardboard, matboard, or paper.

Making a Window Viewfinder

For standard-size canvases, you may want to choose the window viewfinder. Take a simple piece of paper, scrap matboard, or thin cardboard and cut a rectangular window in the center to look through. The window opening should be proportionate to the prepared canvas in height and width. For example, a 16″ x 20″ canvas would require the viewfinder window to be 2″ x 2.5″ or 4″ x 5″.

Other proportions that might be useful are:

Canvas Size	Window Cutout Size
16″ x 20″ or 24″ x 30″	2″x 2.5″, 4″x 5″, or 8″x10″
16″ x 24″ or 24″ x 36″	2″ x 3″ or 4″ x 6″
9″ x 12″, 12″ x 16″ or 18″ x 24″	3″ x 4″ or 6″ x 8″

After carefully measuring and cutting out the window opening, move it slowly around on the surface of your snapshot until the image that interests you appears in the opening. Once you have decided on the composition, tape the viewfinder in position on your photograph to hold it in place.

The Lighthouse of Palo Duro Canyon
by Teresa Bernard
(2016)
16″ w x 12″ h
Click on the image or link above for more information.

Making an L-shaped Viewfinder

artist L shaped viewfinder — L-shaped Viewfinder

The L-shaped viewfinder is helpful in determining what size canvas is required if you do not plan on using a standard-size canvas. The two L’s work together much like the aperture of a camera. You move them out and away from each other to enlarge the opening, or you move them closer together to shrink the inside opening.

The L-shaped viewfinder can be made from two L-shaped pieces of cardboard, matboard, or paper. When placed together, they create a frame around your area of focus. You then look through this frame to determine the scene you wish to paint. To make one, you will need a ruler and pencil to draw two identical-sized L-shaped pieces. A good width is about two inches, so they can easily crop out the unwanted areas of the scenery. The length of the arms of each L can be any size; however, 6″ to 8″ works best if you are going to use it on photographs.

How to Use an Artist’s Viewfinder

using an artist viewfinder Using the viewfinder is a simple technique that has been around and used by artists for centuries. What a viewfinder does is frame in and crop out unimportant areas of an image. The elements inside the frame will make up an attractive focal point that can be used to begin your painting.

How this is done is to take your image and slowly move the viewfinder around until you pinpoint a precise spot that makes an eye-catching center of interest. Once you have your composition picked out, attach the viewfinder to the picture using low-adhesive tape to hold it in place. This will permit you to make several drawings of the scene needed or sketch it directly onto the canvas, getting it ready for painting.

Girl in The Red Dress
by Teresa Bernard
(2020)
24″ w x 18″ h
Click on the image or link above for more information.

A viewfinder is also beneficial for training your eye to distinguish a good composition. This instrument will give the artist an idea of how an arrangement might work as a viable composition. Over time, your “mind’s eye” will become adept at ignoring extraneous elements, allowing you to visualize compositions without any assistance.

Lastly, both viewfinders can be used in either portrait (vertical) or landscape (horizontal) orientations. This allows the artist to use it as a drawing aid to determine which orientation works best for their painting. Positioning the viewfinder vertically accentuates the view’s top and bottom, while a horizontal hold highlights the composition’s width. This helps you focus on particular parts of the scene, enabling you to decide what will make the best composition, both in terms of emphasis and orientation.

Art Gallery Quick Links

Tightly Cropped Paintings — The Art of Focus and Intrigue

Additional Reading

Using a Grid to Enlarge and Transfer an Image to Canvas

You can find more details on this subject and many others in the My Artist Blog Index.

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

June 9, 2024September 16, 2024

Using a Grid to Enlarge and Transfer an Image to Canvas

The Grid Enlarging Technique

Grid enlarging is a simple technique used by artists every day to create sensational works of art. The best part is that it doesn’t require advanced drawing skills to obtain remarkable outcomes using this method. You’d be surprised to learn that many of the world’s greatest oil painters are not skilled in drawing. They compensate for this by using the grid enlarging technique to start their paintings. What grid enlarging does is to help the artist transfer a smaller image onto a larger canvas, capturing as much detail as desired. Ultimately their paintings become beautiful works of art

What exactly is grid enlarging?

grid enlarging technique A grid is a series of equally spaced horizontal and vertical lines that intersect to form a boxed pattern. It serves to divide the original image into smaller blocks to see what goes where more easily. Grid enlarging can be a valuable exercise in helping to improve your drawing and observational skills.

Grid enlarging is the process of using a grid to precisely copy and enlarge a smaller image onto a larger canvas. Artists use this technique regularly as part of preparing their canvases for painting. It entails drawing a grid on your reference image and then drawing another grid on your canvas of equal or greater proportion. Then, one square at a time, you draw the picture onto your canvas, concentrating on the contents of each square until the image is complete.

Red Poinsettia
by Teresa Bernard
(2023)
12″ w x 9″ h
Click on the image or link above for more information.

5 Easy Steps to Grid Enlarging

Drawing your Grid

Step 1: Select your reference photograph and use a viewfinder to isolate the section you want to paint. Next, you will need to determine the proportions of your composition. It is important that the image and the canvas be in the same proportion. For example, a composition that measures 4″ x 5″ is the same proportion as a 16″ x 20″ or 24″ x 30″ canvas. If your canvas is 12″ x 16″ or 18″ x 24″, then you will need to crop your reference photo to 3″ x 4″ or 6″ x 8″.

Smart tip: For detailed information about what a viewfinder is and how to use one, see the article titled "Making and Using a Viewfinder to Compose Better Paintings."

Step 2: The most important thing to keep in mind when drawing your grid is it must be in a 1-to-1 ratio. The size of your reference photo must always be equal in proportion to the size of the canvas. Failing to follow this principle will result in a distorted drawing. Equally important is the lines must be evenly space both vertically and horizontally, intersecting to form perfect squares.

Smart tip: After you have drawn your grids on both your reference photo and canvas, count the number of squares in each row and column on your canvas. It should be the same amount as the ones in your picture.

Step 3: Use a pencil and ruler to carefully measure and mark along the outside edge of the photo. Put tick marks at every inch, half-inch, or quarter inch, depending on the size of your reference image and how much detail you need to transfer. Then carefully connect your marks by lightly drawing your grid directly onto the image.

Draw the grid lightly so that it can be easily erased once you’re finished. If you don’t want to draw on your photograph, you can tape a piece of clear acetate over your picture and then draw your grid on it using a very fine-point Sharpie marker.

Smart tip: Use a mechanical pencil to draw your grid. A mechanical pencil produces a very thin and precise line.

Transferring Your Image

grid drawing method
Step 4: Begin your transfer by drawing everything you see in one block of the reference photograph into the corresponding block on your canvas. Concentrate on one square at a time until it is fully completed, then proceed to the next square. Disregard squares you’re not working on until you come to them. The reason you should focus on only one square at a time is so that you will end up drawing what is actually there—what your eye sees—rather than what you think should be there.

Along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)
by Teresa Bernard
(2001)
12″ w x 9″ h
Click on the image or link above for more information.

Copy all the details you see in that one little block on the photo to its corresponding block on your canvas. Be sure to include the shadows and highlights too. Continue this process one block at a time until all the blocks have been drawn onto your canvas. When you have finished that last block, you will have a very close rendering of your reference photo.

Begin your drawing with the top left square (A1) and proceed across and down the canvas, moving row by row and column by column, until your detailed drawing is complete. Pay careful attention to make sure you are in the correct square, or your drawing will be off, and you will have to erase some of the drawing and start over from the point where you went off-grid.

An excellent way to keep your blocks straight is to label them numerically and alphabetically along the edges of the photo and canvas. The first block on your canvas located in the top left corner would be block A1. The next one to the right on the same row would be block A2, and so forth. This technique will prevent you from losing your place, particularly in larger paintings.

Smart tip: Use a thin piece of sharpened charcoal instead of a pencil when transferring your drawing. The advantage of charcoal over pencil is that charcoal can be easily wiped off with your finger, kneaded eraser, paper towel, or rag, whereas pencil lead requires more effort to erase. Spray with a fixative to keep your charcoal drawing from rubbing off when you finish your drawing.

Step 5: Once you have transferred the entire image onto the canvas, carefully remove the grid lines and start painting.

Art Gallery Quick Links

Making and Using a Viewfinder to Compose Better Paintings

Additional Reading

The Importance of Varnishing Oil Paintings

You can find more details on this subject and many others in My Artist Blog Index. Check it out!

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

June 1, 2024September 19, 2024

Starting Your Own Art Collection

start art collection

Starting Your Own Art Collection: Tips for Everyone

Starting your own art collection can be an exciting and rewarding journey. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a beginner, here are some essential tips to help you curate an art collection you’ll love.

1. Define Your Purpose and Goals

Consider why you want to collect art. Is it for personal enjoyment, investment, or both? Define your purpose and set clear goals. Are you drawn to contemporary pieces, historical works, or a specific genre? Knowing your objectives will guide your collection.

Explore the diverse selection of oil paintings in Teresa Bernard’s Fine Art Gallery.

2. Set a Budget

Determine how much you’re willing to invest in your art collection. Remember that you don’t need a massive budget to start. Many collectors begin with modest amounts and gradually expand their collection over time.

Below are some links to some moderately priced oil paintings that won’t break the bank.

Affordable Oil Paintings on Canvas

Small Paintings for Small Spaces

Oversized Paintings — Unveiling Hidden Treasures

3. Educate Yourself

Explore the art world by attending exhibitions, art fairs, and gallery openings. Follow artists and galleries on social media. Learn about different styles, artists, and art movements. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed choices.

Misconceptions About Buying Art

4. Trust Your Taste

Art collecting is subjective. Trust your instincts and buy what resonates with you. Look for pieces that evoke emotions, challenge your perspective, or simply bring joy. Remember, there’s no right or wrong—only what speaks to you.

Choosing the Perfect Oil Painting for Your Home or Office

5. Start Small and Build Relationships

Begin with smaller, affordable pieces. Explore emerging artists and local talent. Attend open studios and connect with artists. Building relationships with artists and galleries can lead to exciting discoveries and unique opportunities.

Artist Statement by Teresa Bernard

6. Explore Various Avenues to Buy Art

Consider buying directly from artists, attending auctions, exploring online platforms, or visiting galleries. Each avenue offers a different experience and access to diverse artworks.

Benefits of Buying Art Directly from the Artist

7. Diversify Your Collection

Don’t limit yourself to one style or medium. Diversify your collection by including various genres of paintings—landscapes, flowers, wildlife, or even space art. Variety adds depth and richness to your art journey.

Buying Oil Paintings as An Investment

8. Document Your Collection

Keep records of your acquisitions. Note the artist’s name, title of the artwork, date of purchase, and any relevant details. Proper documentation ensures clarity and authenticity.

Each painting sold from this website is accompanied by a custom Certificate of Authenticity.

9. Display and Enjoy Your Art

Once you’ve acquired pieces, display them in your home or office. Art should be seen and appreciated. Rotate artworks to keep your space fresh and inspiring.

Decorating Your Home with Fine Art

10. Insure Your Art Collection

Your art collection represents a significant investment. Whether you own one piece of fine art or an entire collection, insurance provides peace of mind. It ensures that, in the event of a covered incident (such as theft, fire, or physical damage), you can repair or replace your valuable artworks.

Taking Good Care of Your Oil Paintings

Conclusion

Remember, art collecting is an adventure. When you start an art collection of your own, be open-minded, explore, and let your passion guide you. Whether you’re drawn to oil paintings, sculptures, or mixed media, each piece adds a unique chapter to your collection. Happy collecting!

Art Gallery Quick Links

May 31, 2024August 21, 2024

Additional Reading

More information about this topic and many others can be found in My Artist Blog Index. Check it out!

Have a question?

If you have a question about this blog post, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.

Thanks for reading this!

Feel free to share this with your friends.

Benefits of Buying Art Directly from the Artist

buying art from artist

Buying art directly from the artist has several benefits, both for the artist and for the purchaser.

Traditionally, art purchases were made through galleries, however, thanks to the Internet, an artist can set up a website and sell directly to their collectors, patrons, or anyone who just loves what that artist does. Here are some reasons why buying art directly from the artist can be a meaningful and enriching experience:

1. Origin of the Artwork

Purchasing art directly from the artist ensures you know its origin; meaning it has been handcrafted by the artist rather than mass-produced in a factory in some foreign nation like China.

2. Developing a Personal Relationship

When you buy art directly from an artist, you establish a special connection. Artists often nurture this relationship by keeping in touch long after the sale. They share updates on their art career, invite you to openings and events, and maintain direct communication.

3. Authentic Connection and Story

When you purchase art directly from the artist, you engage in a unique experience that goes beyond a simple transaction. You have the opportunity to hear the story behind the piece, understand the artist’s inspiration, and appreciate the nuances of their creative process. This connection adds a personal touch to the artwork, making it more than just a decorative item in your home or office, but a cherished piece of art with a story.

4. Support for Creativity and Independence

Buying directly from the artist ensures that they receive the full benefit of your purchase. This support enables them to continue their creative endeavors without the constraints imposed by galleries or middlemen. By supporting an artist directly, you’re contributing to their ability to thrive and create more work.

5. Financial Support for the Artist

Galleries typically take a 50% commission on the sales price of an artwork. This covers their overhead and marketing efforts. When you buy directly from the artist, they don’t pay a commission to anyone. However, they still incur credit card fees, packaging costs, marketing expenses, and overhead. Therefore, it’s essential not to bargain down the price, as artists put significant effort into making the sale happen.

6. Unique and Personalized Art

Buying directly from the artist often means acquiring a unique or limited-edition piece that isn’t available anywhere else. Artists may also offer custom commissions, allowing you to own a piece tailored to your preferences and space. This personalization ensures that your collection is distinctive and reflects your individual taste.

7. Opportunity for Custom Commissions

As you explore artists and their work, you may discover an exciting opportunity—commissioning custom art. You don’t need to be a designer for this. Select your favorite pieces from the artist’s portfolio and request something similar or with specific colors to match your home decor. Commissioned art holds special meaning because it wouldn’t exist without your input, making you part of the creative process.

See Commission a Painting for more information on this subject.

In Conclusion

Buying art directly from the artist allows you to forge connections, support their creative journey, and be part of the art-making process. It’s a rewarding experience that goes beyond mere acquisition—it’s about celebrating authenticity and fostering artistic growth. Furthermore, when you buy art directly from an artist, you not only acquire a beautiful piece but also become part of their creative journey. It’s a win-win for both art lovers and artists!

Art Gallery Quick Links