Studying museum-quality art, such as Georgia O' Keeffe's
"Poppy" (1927), can help a potential buyer to develop an "eye."

It’s time to conquer
the fear of art

Buying art might be a scary endeavor for many. Why? Well, there are many legitimate reasons.

Some feel they need an art background before they dare enter an art gallery. The fear of being discovered as a phony or an uneducated, uninformed person would drive anyone far, far away from art galleries.

Well, not to worry. A degree in art is not essential - not even slightly necessary. The best way to buy art at a gallery is to shop, shop, shop in many galleries until you find out what it is that appeals to you.

Go to museums, art galleries and exhibitions to do your "studying." Don't be afraid to talk to the art dealers and consultants; they will be great sources of information.

For example, a sculpture made of wood might be appealing, but upon discovering the origin of the wood, such as African ebony, and how only the center of the tree can be used for sculpting, the piece might have even greater appeal.

Another reason some shy away from art is price. It is true that good art can be expensive, but if it is just the right thing that will bring joy every time you look at it, it might just be worth the money.

Consider buying one very good piece rather than filling the house with many inexpensive pieces.

Of course, art can be good without being expensive. Search, and then search some more, if the budget is limited. There are wonderful sculptures, reliefs, paintings and prints out there, priced very reasonably. It just takes patience and perseverance to find the right ones. OK, a little endurance will help, too.

How much art to buy depends on how you like a room to look. Is a wall full of art the way you wish to go? Or is a more sparse or clean look more appealing? There is no set rule Whatever feels right ... is.

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Scripps Howard News Service