Tips for Buying Art for Yourself: Start Your Journey with Confidence

28/04/2025

Author: UK Artists

Starting your journey into the world of buying art is an exciting and deeply personal adventure. Art has the unique power to transform a blank wall into a space that reflects your spirit, style, and individuality. It’s not just about decoration - it’s about finding pieces that intrigue, amaze, or excite you. When you choose art that truly speaks to you, it becomes more than just an object; it becomes part of your home’s story. And what's more, it will always be a wonderful talking point when entertaining guests!

If you’re ready to take your first steps, here are some tips to help you buy art you will love for years to come.

Start with Your Budget

One of the first things to remember is that you don't need a huge budget to start collecting art. While buying original pieces is ideal—nothing quite compares to the feeling of owning a one-of-a-kind work—there are many accessible ways to begin your collection.

Limited edition prints, for example, are a fantastic option. They tend to hold their value better than open edition prints, especially if the edition is small. Ideally, aim for editions of 20 prints or fewer. Even better, if you come across an artist’s proof (often marked A/P), snap it up—these are usually the very first prints pulled by the artist to check quality and are highly prized by collectors.

Do keep in mind that there might be extra costs associated with your purchase. Mounting, framing, VAT, and delivery charges can all add up, so factor those into your budget. If you fall in love with a piece that’s a little beyond your immediate reach, don’t worry—many galleries and online platforms now offer payment schemes where you can pay in installments.

Where to Find Art You’ll Love

While seeing art in person is wonderful, browsing online opens up an even greater world of possibilities. At UK Artists, we bring a curated collection of high-quality, original art straight to your fingertips - allowing you to discover and buy art from the comfort of your home, at your own pace.

When visiting physical galleries, don't feel pressured to buy on the spot. Good gallery staff will respect your space and let you explore at your own pace. However, if you spot a piece that truly lights your fire, don’t hesitate too long. Original art is, by its nature, unique—once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Helpful tip: Before heading out, equip yourself with a few practical details like the measurements of your wall space and your room’s general colour scheme. That said, don’t be afraid to let a piece of art inspire changes to your decor—it’s a beautiful way to create a cohesive, personal space.

Take your time and enjoy the process. Make notes about artists, styles, or particular pieces you love. Ask questions, too—curators and gallery owners often have wonderful insights about the artists and their work, and it’s a great way to deepen your understanding. Watching art documentaries and attending artist talks can also enrich your knowledge.

Explore Local Artists and Graduating Talent

Supporting local artists is incredibly rewarding. County open studio trails, local exhibitions, and community art fairs offer opportunities to not only view art but meet the creators themselves. Talking directly to artists about their inspiration and process can create a deeper connection with the piece you choose.

Photography, posters, and even vintage album covers can also make fabulous additions to your collection. If contemporary art is your passion, don’t overlook graduation shows at art schools. These events are treasure troves of emerging talent, where you can find exciting, original pieces at affordable prices—perhaps even by an artist destined for fame.

Whenever you buy a piece of art, always check that it’s signed by the artist and comes with a certificate of authenticity. Keep all receipts and paperwork safely stored. This documentation not only enhances the artwork's value but also secures its provenance, especially if you ever decide to sell it in the future.

Don’t Forget About Art at Work

Art isn’t just for your home! Offices and workplaces can benefit enormously from beautiful art. It makes the environment more welcoming for visitors and can boost mood and creativity for everyone working there.

When selecting art for a professional space, consider themes that complement your business. Travel scenes or garden landscapes are perfect for windowless rooms, while abstract works can energize a modern, open-plan office.

If you find an artist whose style you love, you might even consider commissioning a bespoke piece. This allows you to create something uniquely suited to your space and vision.

Sculptures can also be a great addition to an office, but do ensure they are placed securely to avoid accidents.

Display Your Art with Care

Once you’ve found your perfect piece, displaying it properly is essential. If you’re unsure about how to hang a painting or install a piece, it’s always worth sourcing professional help. Proper hanging ensures your artwork stays safe and looks its best.

Avoid placing your artwork in areas of direct sunlight or near heat sources like radiators or fireplaces. Exposure to extreme conditions can fade colours and damage delicate materials over time, potentially devaluing your precious investment.

Begin Your Journey Today

Buying art for yourself is one of the most fulfilling gifts you can give yourself. It’s not about trends or following anyone else’s taste—it’s about finding something that resonates with you and makes you happy every time you see it.

Be bold, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to start small. Whether you’re filling a blank wall in your home, adding life to an office, or simply treating yourself to something special, the right piece of art will bring endless joy.

Ready to find your next piece? Explore our curated selection of independent professional artists at UK Artists and begin your journey today!