Contemporary Art World -101

So back to step number one – look, look and look some more.  And then read and ask questions.  Luckily we now have the internet to help – though under NO circumstances should you buy anything of value without seeing it in the flesh first.  The internet is just a visual tool.  Some art looks better in a small scale on the net, most art looks way worse.  In any case, no art looks the same in real life as on the web.  However, by  trolling the net and the art world you can build up an library of images.

Surf the web.  Make folders of images that you like and start thinking about what common thread do they all have that  appeals to you.  Maybe you like deep space, maybe you like yellow, maybe you like art that tells a narrative, or figures, or a kind of light or atmosphere.    Over time you’ll find one or two or maybe three or four qualities that join these works together.  All of the sites on our blogroll are great sources for images.

Use Local Resources -I don’t care where you live, there are good sources around for learning about art.  Visit local fine art museums and libraries. Every town has a local museum associated with the city or a al university. Libraries have art books and magazines to browse. Take courses at local universities, attend lectures sponsored by local art organizations and museums.  Go to the galleries in your town or if your town has few good galleries,  drive an hour or two to the next largest town and hang around the galleries.

Art dealers looove to talk about art – why they are exhibiting this artist as opposed to that one, why they think one artist is better than another.  Ask questions, sign up for mailing lists and get the galleries postcards.  Attend openings and meet some of the other local collectors.  Try to pick their brains as well.  People truly involved with the art world love to talk about it.