FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Creative Touch & Design Art Collecting

What is the difference between an original and a reproduction?

A reproduction is a replica of an original work created by an artist. Depending on the artist’s popularity and appeal, an original most often has a higher value than a reproduction.

How should I choose art if I want to collect for resale value?

Study the artists and choose the works of those who are growing in popularity. Talk with art gallery owners who carry African-American works. They can usually give you a sense of whose work is selling, how quickly it is increasing in price, and local showings by the artists. Creative Touch & Design also provides internet answers to these same questions.

Should I buy a famous artist’s work or choose a lesser-known person?

The first question you should always ask yourself is “Do I like the work?” If you prefer to collect originals, a purchase of a lesser-known artist’s work may fit your budget. Regional and local artists gain popularity through collectors who take a chance on the growth potential of these budding artists. Others stick with established artists. Their work has proven popular, but originals by these artists may not be as affordable. A novice may use a combination--original works by new, local artists and limited edition prints by established artists.

What do I do if I don’t want everyone else to have the same art that I do?

Purchase of an original piece of art guarantees you exclusive rights to the artist’s most intense effort. However, a limited edition print also offers fewer possibilities that your art will be owned by a lot of people. Watch the artist’s method of distribution. Some issue limited edition prints followed by open edition posters, mini-prints, and plates, tiles and book covers of the same work. Become familiar with the artist and his or her pattern for releasing their works.

When people come into my home, I want them to marvel at one magnificent piece. How do I get that effect?

The size of the artwork and the framing of the piece contribute to the eye appeal. Look for a unique piece that first captures your attention. Larger pieces will give you that wow effect, but don’t overpower the wall. Measure the wall and decide how large the piece plus framing must be to get the wow effect. Decide early on to invest in a frame and matting that complement the piece. Don’t be cheap, think wow!

Should I insure my original art?

If your work is valued above $5000, then you may consider a separate insurance policy. Most homeowner’s policies cover artwork. Be certain you keep the certificates of authenticity with other valuable ownership papers in a fireproof box.

Should I shop around for a better value on a piece of art?

You may shop for a better price on framing, but most artist price their work for resale.

When I go to a store that has large numbers of a print, I want to walk away. Is there some value in making this cheap purchase?

Your reason for collecting a piece of art should outweigh the cost. Less expensive pieces may fit your budget or may capture a theme you want in a room. An inexpensive print with a great frame can still be a conversation piece especially if you know something about the artist and popularity.

How will I know what art I want?

Just as your living and working space reflects your individual taste so should your artwork. Don’t make a spur of the moment decision. Shop for art that catches your eye before making your first purchase. Study the artists.

Since the art is so expensive, will art dealers let you pay gradually, or is this poor etiquette in the art world?

Always ask about the available payment plans, especially when purchasing an original. The artist or distributor may be willing to work with you.

Creative Touch & Design and most galleries take credit card purchases.

When all the prints have been sold, will the price on my print double like it does on some figurines, etc.?

A limited edition print will increase in value when all prints are sold, but there is no guarantee it will double. Open edition prints generally do not increase in value unless signed or embellished by the artist.

Should I choose art that looks good on my wall and matches my decor, or should I choose it for looks alone?

Either approach is acceptable. Take caution that originals and highly priced limited edition prints may need to more pleasing to your eye because of the investment. You don’t want to change these valuable pieces with the season or a new color scheme.

Where is the best place to find good art?

Creative Touch & Design offers a variety of framed and unframed prints. The best variety and price can also be found at black art expos and festivals.  Usually you can meet the artist face-to-face at these public shows.  Otherwise start a relationship with a local art gallery and or frame shop.

How do I decide whether a print is worth its price?

What should I look for? Prints tend to cost less when first released. The price will rise as the prints get closer to being sold out. Look for new releases of famous artists to get the best price.

I see mini-prints all over, and I see the same piece in a larger size. Should I buy the smaller or larger size?

Neither of the pieces are likely to increase in value. Therefore, you purchase should be based on your personal preference or décor.

I see art that can no longer be found in print on ceramic tiles and plates. Should I buy that as valuable art?

You should buy ceramic tiles and plates for their decorative appeal, but they will not increase in value.

Framing

How should I decide about framing?

There are two points to decide—molding and matting. First, choose molding that complements the artwork and décor in your living space. Next, choose matting that highlights less dominant colors in the piece. Matting may be paper or cloth (suede, linen, silk). Naturally, paper is less expensive. Look for quality workmanship at the corners of the mats and the molding. The mitered corners should be even and smooth. Valued prints should have an acid-free museum mount that will preserve the work for a lifetime.

Where should I go to get my art framed?

Creative Touch & Design offers custom framing and assistance with decisions about matting and molding. Art galleries and art supply stores also offer framing. Do not hesitate to ask their professional opinion. Also, inquire about turn-around times, prior experience, and specialties. Of course, it is easiest to see a framed piece and just say, “I’ll take that one.”

How can I find a good framer in my city?

The telephone directory offers many choices. Look in the yellow pages under “custom framing“ and “art galleries.“

Will those frame-it-yourself shops work for me?

What are you having framed? Originals need the skill of a seasoned professional. The artist or distributor will readily provide assistance with local framers. Limited edition prints need acid-free museum mounting. This needs to be done by a professional. Posters and mini-prints can be completed at a frame-it-yourself shop. You need patience and a lot of help if you choose this route. You may also find that a simple frame by a skilled professional is worth the cost. You will probably have a piece you will like a lot longer.

What if I don’t like my art after I have tried to hang it?

Art can be reframed if done by a skilled professional. However, the process is frustrating. Ask for as much assistance from the professional framer before making the final decision. Give the framer permission to call you if the framing is not going to be attractive with the framing you chose.