Everyone who has an eye for art of any kind has a favorite artist or at the very least, a single work that they dream of owning one day. While dreaming of owning an original piece or art work is certainly a lovely daydream to have and may keep you slogging away at work day after day, it really isn’t all that realistic, is it? You may have to settle for reproductions of your favorite artists or paintings or frame your children’s finger painting forays. There is another alternative to consider as well: contemporary art. There are  a number of benefits to buying contemporary art - here are just a few of them.

First, you may actually get a chance to meet the artist, to get a sense of the story behind the brush strokes. If you have ever wondered about why a certain color or a certain technique was used in a painting, you know that there are dozens of theories because the artist has been gone for centuries and left no personal notes on the piece in question. For a contemporary artist, not only can you ask questions and get the real story, so to speak, you can also commission work - especially for a very young, up and coming artist who may be practically (or literally) starving. Imagine telling your snooty rival that you have an original piece of art work when she asks. That, in and of itself is quite a nice little bonus.

Second, contemporary artists have not yet attained the levels of the great masters that went before them, so they certainly have no right to set prices in the same level. Be careful though, some galleries will have a showing of someone they think has potential, not only for great art but for great art sales as well.

Third, contemporary art may contain new and exciting mixed media like photography and other found objects, intermingled and entwined in interesting and stirring ways. Works by artists like Rosemarie Hughes-Croucher and others are quickly gaining notice, not only in their local art communities but world wide via the internet as well.

Finally, contemporary art may speak to you on a deeper and more meaningful level. Sure, Blue Boy is a classic but does anyone still feel emotionally invested in it? Does anyone look up and wish ah, yes, that could be my son, brother, husband, etc.?  If your home is filled with modern furniture and modern, clean architecture, then it might only be sensible to  have contemporary art as well.