Blog: Art as an Emotional Investment
January 23, 2020 - Joy Reed Belt
Having owned a gallery for approximately 20 years, I have become familiar with the evaluative processes that accompany the decision to buy, or not to buy, a work of art. Generally, these decisions and conversations fall into two categories: Analytical and Emotional.
The first being the carefully planned purchase. Usually when this approached is used, the buyer has already determined that they need a new work of art and has decided on a style of art: portrait, landscape, abstract, or still life. Along with this, the color palette has been decided upon, sometimes, with the advice of a designer or decorator, and the available space for the work of art to be installed has been carefully measured. The evaluation continues as they make inquiries at the Gallery about the price and investment potential of the works of art. This is the analytical approach to buying art. However, this approach becomes more balanced when paired with the emotional approach, rather than used on its own – and vice versa.
The emotional approach revolves around the feelings we encounter when a work of art “speaks to us” and the decision to add it to our lives. Art is one of the earliest forms of nonverbal communication and when we buy things that speak to us, those things will have common elements that work together. For example, many years ago, when I was a college student, I walked into an exhibit and saw the most beautiful, abstract painting, named “Narcissus.” I was immediately connected with the painting and felt I could not live without it. Being totally broke, I bargained with the gallery owner to let me pay for the painting in monthly installments. Currently, “Narcissus” is hanging in my office at JRB ART at The Elms. Much to my delight, people comment on it almost every day. In fact, just 10 minutes ago someone walked in my office and told me it was a “wonderful painting.” This piece has lived with me for over 50 years, always hanging in my home or office. It has documented and given witness to all the different seasons of my life and continues to give me a gift every time I look at it.
Art is always a wonderful emotional investment. We live in a very stressful world and to survive and be productive we need to cultivate coping mechanisms. More than disposable items like clothes and trinkets, art can give you a sense of identity and wellbeing. Stuck with a dreadful boss, a dead-end job, frantic schedule or sleepless nights? Buy art and invest in the emotional benefits it has to offer. In addition to the practical aspects of deciding which art piece to buy, consider buying art that you love...that moves you.
Image - "Narcissus" in JRB's office at JRB's Art at The Elms
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