How to Build an Outstanding Collection of Art Prints

Buying a good-quality art print is a great way to start a personal collection. It adds beauty to any home, office, retail or institutional setting and a print is generally less expensive than an original painting. But how do you begin to build a collection? Here are five tips to consider:

1. Give yourself permission. There are many reasons why artists make art but only a few reasons why people buy art. One of them is to celebrate success. Maybe you've just landed an important promotion. Or you're celebrating an anniversary. Or bought a new house. Or just commemorating something special. Whatever the reason, give yourself permission to celebrate your success with the purchase of art. Each time you reach a milestone, add a new art print to your collection. And then hang your new print in a location where you can see it every day, reminding yourself of what you've achieved. After a while, you'll have a collection of art you'll be proud to show and one your friends will envy.
2. Find an art print that is meaningful to you. Does the image touch you in some important way or convey an idea or sensitivity that is relevant to you? For instance, the artist, Mark Travers, created his Wrapture pop-art prints of gift-wrapped packages as a metaphor for gratitude. Think about it: One person gives a gift to another as thanks for love, friendship, respect and / or appreciation. Travers took that idea and elevated the gift-wrapped package to an art form. What is a meaningful idea to you? Look for it in the art prints you purchase.
3. Purchase with quality in mind. Not all art prints are produced at the same level of quality. Higher quality art prints are printed on heavier museum-grade archival papers and use inks that are deeper, richer and provide more protection against UV light. But these prints can also be more expensive. Just remember: A lower cost print may give you the same degree of pleasure but also be easier on your wallet.
4. Work with your budget. Prints are generally more affordable than paintings, sculptures or other works of art. You can often get a very high quality art print at an affordable price. First, set a budget to buy your print. Buy a smaller print first if you need to, then work your way up in size. If you can't afford to frame it right away, that's okay. Just keep your art print flat and safe for later when you have the funds to frame it.
5. Ask questions. If you find an art print you like, feel free to ask questions about the artist, the quality of the print and the art dealer's return policies. A reputable dealer will be happy to answer your questions without obligation from you to purchase.

Art prints will provide you with beauty, mental stimulation and personal enjoyment for years to come. Why not start to build your collection today?

Celebrate your success and the special people in your life with the purchase of beautiful art.