about collecting folk art…
(tips from Kelly at Detour Art…who has a folk art affliction)
For those new to the world of collecting art, it can be hard to figure out where to start. My collection started with a New Year’s resolution to buy one piece of original art a year. It is the only resolution I have ever kept. The rules are fairly simple—buy what you love. Some art will appreciate over time and some won’t; but if you love it, it is always valuable.
Buying directly from the artist: For me, this is the most fun. I love to meet the folks and hear their stories. Perhaps I am lucky, but I have yet to have a bad experience. Friendships are forged that last a lifetime. Each piece of art purchased directly from the artist has those memories embedded. A few tips:
- Treat everyone with respect: you are a guest.
- Ask questions. In most cases, the artists are proud of their work and enjoy sharing their stories.
- No haggling. They have the right to determine the worth of a piece. You don’t have to buy it. Bring cash in multiple denominations, no checks—it’s not a retail shop.
- Bring old blankets and packing materials to keep your art from getting damaged.
- Don’t put it off. It is fun, and the artists may not be around later.
Buying from a dealer: For the most part, art dealers love the art they sell, the artists that create it, and the opportunity to “share the love.” They are a wealth of knowledge. As you develop a relationship, they will help train your eye and teach you how to build your collection. Yes, they mark up the cost of the work, but they do the legwork, too, and often help the artist with more personal matters such as paying bills and medical needs. Some will work with you on the price, some will not. eBay is also a growing resource. Many reputable dealers sell quality work online, and sometimes you can get a deal. Of course, always research both the dealer and artist before you buy.
At auction: The art on the cover is the first piece I bought at one of the premier folk art auction houses, the Slotin Auction in North Atlanta. I fell in love with the piece in the catalog, and I flew out to experience an auction firsthand. Imagine: The room is packed with kindred spirits, people in love with this art, and more than 800 pieces of art being sold in one day—more than one a minute. It’s exhilarating. It’s a great but fleeting museum exhibit that will never be assembled like this again. Prices can range from the tens of thousands of dollars to as little as ten dollars. Remember that there is a buyer’s premium that is a percentage of the winning bid that will be added. The Slotins also host Folk Fest every August, also in Atlanta. Yet another great way to meet artists and dealers all under one roof.
