Concept of Choosing Art

Robert Klonoski estimates six billion pieces of art being displayed in American homes. Only a small percentage of those pieces are originals. Original art, in marketing terms, tends to be a luxury item. The merchandise sells well in times of inflation and poorly in times of recession. The more expensive, the more elaborate it gets. Because art satifies their desires, people are more flexible where and on what types of pieces they spend their money. People do not have to buy the items, they want to buy them. It's the degree that a given work of art interests any potential buyer's deliberation about whether they are willing to part with any or all of their thousand dollars to purchase it. They may be interested in owning it exclusively for their individual viewing, or displaying it where others can also see it. Either way, they're obtaining it for the gratification. However, the simple decision about where to display it may have significance on what type of art they buy. If an individual is buying for their own viewing, he may be attracted to the art for its influence, quality, style, etc. They may relate with the artist's statement, connect with the artist's ideas, or share the same perspectives. Their ability to understand and appreciate the art that attracts them to it can also be a reason. In all of these situations, they corrolate in some way with the art and artist. The outcome is between them and the art. Then again, the buyer might view the art as a trophy, a symbol of their success and achievements in life. An indication may be made that they have a thousand dollars to spend and they can spend it on whatever they choose. They could believe that possessing original art sets them apart from those who own none. In these occurrences, they encounter a sense of contentment not necessarily related to the specifics of the art, but rather to the fact that they have the ability to own it. The art makes its owners feel better about themselves whenever they look at it and achieves its purpose from its owners' viewpoint. Many of the products we buy--clothes, cars, shoes--are functional, but yet also reflect aspects of ourselves. Art is no different, even though it illustrates things we like to see, feelings we can sympathize, or concepts that run parallel with our mentality. The art we buy is as much about who we are as it is about the artists who create it.