Investment in art today...

At a time when the stock and property markets are looking dangerously unstable, many people are looking for a more unique way of safely investing their money.

Many investors are turning to art as a way of diversifying their portfolios. When pieces are invested in with time and consideration, they can be a solid form of capital, and often appreciate in value over time.

So what do you need to know before becoming one of the many art investors out there? Here are a few tips to help you make informed decisions and wise investments.

First of all, it is a good idea to take an interest in art in general before spending money on it, just as with any other type of investment. While it is not necessary to have a degree in art, knowledge of the basics can be a great help to you, as it gives a chance to familiarize yourself with styles that you particularly like, as well as detailing the different types of art it is possible to buy. There is no need to limit yourself to buying paintings, as photography, sculpture and prints are some of the many other options available, and may better suit a smaller budget.

Another thing to be aware of is the rising incidence of art fraud, which has caught many unsuspecting buyers unaware. Because the internet is used so widely nowadays, it has become easy for scams to spread; such as where a poster instead of the original and/or a forgery is sold as a “limited edition” (sometimes even along with an equally fake “Certificate of Authenticity”). The best rule of thumb is to avoid buying art over the Internet as a beginner to the art market, stick to what you can see and touch with your own eyes. In this vein, good places to buy from include art galleries, the artist themselves, or reputable auction houses.

Once you have found the type of art you like and a place to buy it from, what we would most importantly advise is this: Buy something you know you like, that you could enjoy looking at every day. It is very possible that your purchase may take years to increase significantly in value, so treat buying an artwork as you would treat buying a home; as something you will live with for a significant amount of time. That way even when the market fluctuates (as will almost always happen) you will still get satisfaction from your investment.

A good way to determine whether you are choosing an artwork that will hold, or ideally, increase in value, is to look at the career of the artist so far. If they are being exhibited frequently over a number of years, has an agent, or is regularly receiving publicity in the form of good reviews, articles etc.; these are good indicators that the artist in question has a good chance of wider success and financial investment.

Once you have invested in your artwork, keep in mind that the work will need to be kept in top condition to retain all of its value in the event of it being sold again. Ask before you collect your artwork how it should be cared for. If you are considering selling your piece soon, have it appraised by a qualified professional. Once you have an idea of what your art is worth, you can establish an asking price. Remember; always sell to or through a reputable source. As you establish contacts through your art collecting, so will you get a good idea where your art should be sold. Auction houses are good options, although keep in mind that the auction house will retain a commission for selling your piece. Private collectors and art dealers are also options but finding one suitable will require more research on your part.

Whether you plan to invest for a lifetime purchase or as a portfolio option, we hope you follow these guidelines, and enjoy your new artwork!

Prints Services

Specialist Fine Art Print service

for Artists, Photographers

and the General Public

bold art gallery is now specialist print service dedicated to artists and phoptographers. We offer you superb quality prints of your work on canvas, photo and fine art papers at very affordable prices.

You will appreciate our consistent quality, friendly advice, quick turnaround and meticulous packing.

For more informations, contact us by phone on 091-539900 or by email at info@boldartgallery.com

New Arrival - Pat Walsh

Born in Castlepollard, Co. Westmeath, Pat Walsh has come and gone from painting, including one lapse of 28 years. However his interest always returned, and since his last return to painting in 1980, he has studied under such distinguished names as Thomas Ryan P.R.H.A., Kenneth Webb, Susan Webb, Pam Skerritt, Chris Jones and Dick Free.

Apart from exhibiting in many group shows, Pat’s work is in private collections in many parts of the world as well as the public collection of Premier Periclase Ltd. He has sold extensively to the United States.

Pat has devoted his time mainly to painting since his retirement in 1989, but also spends time writing, and has had one story collection published to date, and a number of other work in completion. Married to Dorothy, they have five children, one girl and four boys. Pat's other pastimes include gundog training and country walks.

Artist of the Month - Paul James

Self taught artist Paul James is a remarkable and fascinating man. He is a gifted wildlife, animal and landscape artist and a wonderful pianist. It would seem that if he has set his heart on learning something he goes for it big time.

In fact should you make reference to his talents Paul will argue that his creative abilities are not down to talent but more about his attitude and application. Paul demonstrates a dogged determinedness to succeed in everything he does; in particular he admits a desire for recognition and respect as an artist.

He was born and grew up in Leicestershire. His artistic and musical abilities became apparent from a relatively early age and with the support and encouragement of his parents he is essentially self-taught. He did go to Art College at the insistence of his teachers to study graphic design, but being something of a rebel he did not wish to conform to the course requirements and preferred to spend time painting classic cars at the local garage, and neighbors pet cats and dogs, so his studies were not concluded.

He went on to develop a career in music, playing both organ and piano in a range of pubs, clubs and cocktail bars. However, it was not quite the rock star lifestyle that he had envisaged and he returned to his first love of art and began painting professionally in 1986. The haunting beauty of the nearby Charnwood Forest greatly influenced the atmospheric landscape and animal paintings for which Paul is renowned today.

You can see more of his work by clicking on this link
http://www.boldartgallery.com/searchresults.php?artistId=9166&start=1
or by visiting us!

Bold Corporate Art

Corporate Art,
"Offices, Hotels, Restaurants, spaces"

BOLD CORPORATE ART SERVICES

Services we provide include:
1. Advice on existing collection (placement, conservation, valuation).
2. Planning, budgeting and placement for new art purchases.
3. Research for artwork that will work for the company (i.e.: size, subject matter, price and or genre). We work to find the right art to fit our client's needs. We have direct contact with hundreds of artists nationally and do not just push gallery artists.
4. We pride ourselves on finding quality art for any budget.
5. We listen to the client and advise on a direction for the collection helping to create a company asset rather than trendy decoration.
6. We frame, deliver and install the artwork.
7. We provide detailed and organized billing and budget summaries.
8. We provide documentation on all artwork and artists.

For more information please call bold art gallery:
Tel: +353 (0) 91539900, purchase online now or make an enquiry!