Editor’s Note: We asked antiques and collectibles expert Spalding Nix to offer up his “golden rules” for those looking to add fine art, antiques and collectibles to their home.
By Spalding Nix
Rule 1: Never ever buy art only for the sake of making an investment. Buy it because you like it.
Rule 2: Look, look, look! Develop your eye and have some fun. Go to gallery opening, visit artist studios, tour museum exhibitions, attend lectures, read Art For Dummies.
Rule 3: Trust your own taste. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake.
Rule 4: Look for value. Only stretch your budget for the right reasons.
Rule 5: Buy from reputable dealers. But how can you tell?
- Avoid any dealer with who sells Salvador Dali or Norman Rockwell. Other artists to avoid are Tarkay, Erté, Earle, Jiang, Chagall (late), Max, Neiman and Agam. They are all overpriced!
- Avoid – like the plague – the “Limited Edition Print” and any dealer who sells them. They are nothing but overpriced, signed posters.
- Avoid the dealer who talks investment and offers a Certificate of Authenticity. Certificates of Authenticity are usually phony. They lead you to believe that you have an original piece of work when in reality you may not.
- Avoid galleries located in shopping malls, tourist areas and airports.
For more, contact Spalding Nix Fine Art & Antiques at (404) 841-7777 to schedule an appointment or visit www.spaldingnixfineart.com.
