A Guide To Buying Art - The Gallery Manager's Tips

A Guide To Buying Art - The Gallery Manager's Tips

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In a bid to help you all find that perfect piece of artwork, I’ve been chatting to some people in the know. First up is Trevor Read, Manager at The Aviary in Jesmond, Newcastle.

Meeting Trevor

I came across The Aviary Gallery by accident. My favourite cafe is on Brentwood Avenue and I’d just enjoyed tea and cake there with my husband on a rare day without our child when we walked past The Aviary. It’s always exciting to find a new gallery so we popped in. As it happens we were in there for quite a while, totally absorbed by the art and the decor (you can pretty much buy it all!). The girl on the desk was friendly and we got chatting about my studio. This eventually turned into me making an appointment with the wonderful Trevor Read.

As soon as I met Trevor I knew we’d get on. He’s so upfront about everything and really passionate about curating exhibitions that showcase amazing artworks and celebrating local talent. The gallery has a real modernity about it and is the kind of place you find real gems.

When I spoke to Trevor about his top tips for buying art, we did it over the phone as a video call. It’s been ages since we were in the gallery together so it was really lovely to catch up. First port of call was complaining about our hair - we’re both desperate for a cut! Then we dived straight into the top tips.

Tip 1 - Follow Your Gut

Trevor is a big believer in going with your gut. “When you first saw it, did it catch you eye?” He asked. I know I’ve regretted not buying that print, that pair of shoes or that little something that I let go. He continues “I’ve never regretted a purchase. Follow your gut despite whether it’s an investment. Do you want to see it on you wall every day? Money wouldn’t prevent me. There are so many options to allow you to buy art”

The Aviary are paid of the ‘Own Art’ scheme where you can pay in 10 interest free instalments. It’s quite common for galleries to offer this now and is a great way to get that piece of art (before someone else does) without getting into money trouble. On my website, you can use the PayPal Pay in Three scheme. There are lots of ways to spread the cost.

Tip 2 - It’s Not About The Sofa

I asked Trevor, “Do you think about your decor when buying art?”

“No, I would never buy a piece to match my sofa. It can become very contrived and take away the joy of looking for something that is perfect for you.”

We went on to chat about the fact that matching artwork to your decor can really narrow what you’re looking for and art isn’t about that. Art is about a feeling, not does it fit the jigsaw. You have to live with this artwork and it will be yours for a very long time. Buy what you love, not what ‘goes’. Trevor admitted, he has been known to repaint a wall to showcase the artwork better.

Tip 3 - Framing Matters

Trevor has artwork from a broad spectrum of artists and media in a wide range of different sizes. I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak around his London apartment. Not one of the items hung on his wall was framed in the same way but they all looked amazing together and as individual pieces. 

“Framing can add to the individuality. It’s what makes my print different to the one hung in someone else’s home.” I totally agree. That’s why it can be so much better to buy a print mounted and then choose the frame to add that extra element of your personality to it.

Trevor’s Favourite Pieces

Where to Find Him

If you’d like to find out more about The Aviary, then check out their website at https://www.aviaryart.co.uk. Alternatively, you can visit from April 12th at 14 - 16 BRENTWOOD AVENUE, JESMOND, NEWCASTLE, NE2 3DH.

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