ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST
Start with Your Interests
The first step in curating an art collection is to identify your interests and what draws you in. Are there certain themes, colors, or styles resonate with you? Are you selecting a piece for a particular room in your home or will you make that decision later? Take some time to explore different art forms and identify what captures your attention. This will help you develop a clear vision of the type of artwork you want to include in your collection.
Oftentimes, we see clients drawn to an oversize or statement-making piece of art in a gallery only to realize later that it isn’t necessarily something they want in their home. The opposite is also true – decision fatigue can make it tempting to purchase generic, ‘safe’ art, but we’re here to make sure it doesn’t happen to you!
ELLE DECOR
Explore Local Art Scenes
We know Singapore is small, but there are some gems to be found if you know where to look! We are lucky to have a plethora of galleries, art fairs, and exhibitions showcasing works by emerging and established artists. Visiting these venues can inspire you and help to narrow down your decision to certain styles or mediums. Places like Gillman Barracks and local art markets are excellent starting points. Ready to pull the trigger? Look no further than the annual Affordable Art Fair, taking place in November this year. One of our favourite galleries, Young Soy from Hong Kong, is exhibiting along with a ton of other exciting curators from all over the region.
However, “local” doesn’t necessarily mean we have to confine ourselves to Singapore! Take advantage of your travels and carve out a few hours to go explore galleries and art fairs the next time you’re in London or Mumbai. These cities have so much exciting, local art that tends to be a lot more affordable than the average price point in Singapore. Most galleries will allow you to roll up your purchase and bring it back in your luggage, or can arrange competitive shipping.
MAKE THE MOST OF THE INTERWEBS
Our modern, digital age has made art more accessible (and affordable) than ever before. There are numerous online platforms where you can browse and purchase affordable art from the comfort of your home. Websites like Wondering People, Saatchi Art, and even Etsy feature a wide range of pieces from local and international artists. These platforms provide detailed information about the artists and their works, making it easier for you to make informed decisions.
The internet is also a great resource for limited-edition prints, if original art is out of your price range. These prints are often signed and numbered by the artist, making them more valuable than open edition prints. Many artists and galleries offer limited edition prints as part of their collections. The ink and paper quality of a limited edition piece also tend to be far superior to that of a generic print – trust us, it’s worth the investment.
Frame It Right
Our final, but perhaps most important tip: remember that presentation of your art is just as important as the pieces themselves! Purchasing affordable art can mean you’re left to frame it yourself, but don’t let that deter you. Investing in a quality frame can elevate the appearance of your artwork and protect it from damage. Consider custom framing options that complement the style and color of your pieces. Proper framing not only enhances the look of your collection but also adds a professional touch to your home decor. You could even dial things up a notch by adding a painting light over your piece to give it a warm, gallery-like glow.
We know that finding unique, affordable art in Singapore can feel like a thankless task, but we hope you’re feeling a bit more optimistic after today! The key is to trust your instincts and choose what you love. At Studio Oxley, we believe that art is an essential part of any home, and good art doesn’t necessarily have to break the bank. Schedule a call with us to learn more about our go-to galleries and resources for art curation.
