BUYING ART: Other Considerations

Introduction | Artist's Reputation | Other Considerations | Value Of Work

"The Music Room" by Edward Gordon
from Gordon Publications

The freshness and originality of an artist's vision should be apparent in the artwork itself. Collectors of prints should look for artwork that is true to the artist's original inspiration and specifications, including:

• Print specifications. When the shutter clicks on the camera, the artist's work has only just begun. Some of the most important artistic decisions take place in the darkroom, where the artist must determine the contrast, texture, clarity, and color of the final photograph, as well as the type of print medium to be used. To be considered truly original works of art, each photograph must be printed in strict accordance with the artist's exacting specifications.

"Mossant" by Leonetto Cappiello
from Vintage Poster Art
Print issued in a limited series of 500.

• Edition limits. Once they have created a compelling image, artists must consider how many original prints of that image they are willing to make. Some choose to leave their editions open, or unlimited. This allows them to create prints only on demand, or to close the edition after just a few prints have been made. Other photographers create limited editions, marking the edition size and print number on each print. Some editions are relatively small, and the asking price for each print may go up as the edition begins to sell out. For larger editions of 250 or more, artists typically set one relatively reasonable fixed price for all the prints in the edition.

• Condition. Artworks are always valued more highly when they are in original condition, and not damaged by extreme heat or dampness. Original, exhibition quality condition can be maintained by archival matting and framing, and stable display conditions.

• Signature. Many collectors think of a signature as a mark of completion and authenticity. But photography collectors should keep in mind that many original, fully-realized fine art photographs are unsigned. Fine arts photographers sometimes choose not to detract from the photograph with a signature, or sign inconspicuously on the mat or backing. Signatures can be hard to authenticate, so your best guarantee of authenticity and originality is to purchase your photographs from a reputable fine arts photography dealer.

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