Purchasing art is often an intuitive and emotional experience. Decisions are made not just with our minds but with our hearts. Yet, having a clear strategy can elevate the experience of art collecting, ensuring it is both fulfilling and enduring.
If you’ve recently found art prints on DROOL that you adore and are eager to bring home, pause for a moment. By reflecting on a few key questions, you can ensure your chosen piece will bring lasting joy and meaning to your life. Here are some of them:
Why Do You Want to Buy Art Prints?
People buy art for many reasons, from surrounding themselves with beauty to expressing their personal style. Some view art as a source of self-fulfilment, finding satisfaction in its aesthetic appeal or its ability to inspire and uplift. By understanding your motivations, you can guide your choices more intentionally.
Perhaps you’re buying art prints as a meaningful gift for a loved one. You might be celebrating a milestone and leaning towards works that symbolise growth or achievement. On the other hand, if your goal is to create a calming environment, serene landscapes or abstract pieces with soft colours could be ideal.
How Do You Define Your Personal Taste and Style?
Understanding your artistic preferences is crucial for making purchases you’ll treasure for years. If you’re still discovering your style, explore media and movements like Bauhaus, surrealism, typography, abstract, and minimalism to find what resonates with you.
When evaluating a specific piece, consider how it makes you feel. Does it spark an emotional or intellectual connection? Are the colours and composition pleasing? Can you see yourself enjoying it for years to come? And does it reveal new details or evoke a deeper meaning the more you look at it?
Who Is the Artist Behind the Work?
Don’t limit yourself to famous names; often, lesser-known artists create extraordinary pieces. Discovering an artist who aligns with your tastes can make your collection feel even more personal. For example, if you have a contemporary home, you might be drawn to an artist specialising in urban landscapes.
Exploring different artists broadens your perspective and helps you find pieces that truly resonate. Supporting emerging creatives not only adds a unique touch to your collection but also empowers talented individuals who bring fresh perspectives to the art world. Choosing art from up-and-coming artists, such as those whose works are featured on DROOL, allows you to contribute to sustaining the grassroots of the arts and help shape its future.
What’s the Story Behind the Piece?
Every piece of art tells a story. Understanding the inspiration, emotions, or ideas behind a work can deepen your connection to it. When you’ve discovered an artist whose values and style resonate with you, take the time to learn about their pieces.
What inspired the artist? What message might the piece convey? Are there similar works in their portfolio? Reach out to the artist or DROOL to ask questions—many artists are happy to share the stories behind their work.
How Do You Assess the Quality of an Art Print?
A high-quality print not only looks stunning but also maintains its value over time.
At DROOL, we use giclée printers, original UV (pigment-based) inks and carefully selected specialist art and photographic papers to achieve exceptional colour accuracy, detail, and texture. This ensures that the print closely mirrors the original artwork and remains vibrant for years to come.
Sustainability is also key. DROOL uses FSC-approved paper and eco-friendly inks for our prints, and sustainably sourced high-quality wood for our frames. By choosing sustainably produced art, you’re investing in beautiful pieces while contributing to a more responsible art market.
What’s Your Budget?
Art should enrich your life, but it’s also important to consider your financial boundaries. Establishing a budget early can simplify your decision-making process and prevent overspending.
Remember to account for framing costs. DROOL’s global frame is milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Available in black, white, and natural, it has a square profile measuring 20mm (front face) by 23mm (depth from wall). If you’re looking for a wider selection of frame styles, window mounts (mat) and frame colours (mouldings), ask us about our bespoke DROOL+ service.
Does the Size Fit Your Space?
Before purchasing a print, think about where you plan to display it. Use a measuring tape to ensure the size suits your intended space. Consider factors like lighting, wall colour, flooring, and furniture to ensure the piece complements its surroundings.
Larger pieces make bold statements and are best suited for spacious areas, while smaller prints offer versatility and can be grouped to create dynamic displays. For example, a vibrant oversized print could serve as a focal point in a minimalist sitting room, while a collection of botanical prints might add charm to a cosy reading nook. Experimenting with placement and grouping can transform your space in unexpected ways.
Are You Ready to Start Your Art Collection?
By reflecting on these questions, you can approach art print collecting with greater confidence and enjoyment. When you find a piece that meets your criteria and speaks to your heart, don’t hesitate to make it yours.
Thoughtful art collecting is not merely about acquiring beautiful pieces; it’s about curating a meaningful collection that reflects your unique taste and values. Every piece you choose tells a story—not just about the artist, but also about you as the collector.
Take your time, trust your instincts, and enjoy the journey of building a collection that enriches your life for years to come. Ready to start? Explore DROOL’s carefully curated collection and find the perfect piece to inspire your space today.
