Hello again!
  When I am exhibiting at an art show or event, I very much enjoy talking to people; not only about their interest in my work, I also love to hear their opinions and expectations about art in general as well. Often I hear folks say that they'd love to collect more art, but they don't know where to start, or have trouble choosing from so many inspiring pieces. When you think about it, buying something as personal and meaningful as art can be intimidating or daunting. I'd like to share a few points to ponder for anyone who may be considering investing in some artwork for their home, whether for the first time, or the tenth time, or if you're like me, to add to your collection leaning against the wall in your hallway, as all of your wall space is occupied by *gasp* more art.    

1. Art does not, repeat, does not have to match the walls or furniture or decor. In fact, you might end up "losing" the piece like a faded wallflower if you try to make everything the same colour. You don't want a piece to clash outrageously with the flow of your room, but your artwork should complement the room and have a presence of its own, not blend in with the curtains. Choose art based on how it makes you feel and how it reflects your personality and taste, not on whether or not that abstract piece has the perfect shade of blue to match the rug up in the corner there... if colour is really a concern, a piece with many different colours, or plain black-and-white, is easy to "match up" with your style, and it will still match if you decide to redecorate in the future. Change of Seasons
2. Don't buy the latest most popular subject matter. Stay away from trends and find your own likes and styles. Be unique. Remember in the 80s when everyone had those awful pink pastel pictures of metal furniture and flower vases? Sure you do. Do any of your friends have a painting of poppies? Those were very popular for a while, there must be millions of works with slight variations on the theme. Metal stars? There are less real ones in the sky. These items are fun and trendy and modern, "in the now", if you will, but that's more for decor... not so much for a true investment in art. Something you thought was fabulous for a minute may lose some of its lustre when you realize both your neighbours and your best friend have pretty much the same wall art. Go for timeless, not "this time".  
3. Buy a piece to fit a specific spot, or buy a piece and then find a spot for it, but be open to moving your collection around periodically. Just because you bought that painting five years ago to go over the mantle, doesn't mean you can't buy this one to go there... just move the other over a bed. Changing it up every once in awhile can give the impression of a whole new room, and refreshen the energy in your home. It also leaves room for the possibility of obtaining more art - you never have to be "finished" your collection.... boring! What if your all-time favourite piece is still out there?  Lilies
4. Your artist or gallery is not Wal-Mart. Have reasonable expectations about what you should pay for someone's creation, and understand what a treasure you are getting. Artists can't produce giant canvases in bulk to be sold at bargain prices. The cost to produce art can be very high. I use only premium paper and inks in my work, and they are very expensive. This is beyond what it costs for my equipment, not to mention my time. At the end of a sale, what I'm really getting is the pride from knowing someone is taking home my work. I am not laughing all the way to the bank with your money. In fact, I'm likely buying more supplies. Take into consideration all that the artist has put in to this amazing work so you can love it forever. You cannot find that on a shelf at a chain store. 
5. Your art is for you, not for the occasional visitors you have to your house. So don't worry about how others will like it, and be self-confident... you have great taste in art - yours! Don't be afraid or shy, be bold and go for what you really want. If something really speaks to you, then it was meant to be yours, no matter the subject or medium. So proudly hang that nude oil painting, the epic digital fantasy landscape, the bold abstract design, and enjoy expressing yourself. That's what art is all about!

  Have fun in the selection process, and remember how much it means to an artist when you purchase their work. On behalf of all artists, I say thank you! Now go out and make your little corner of this world brighter with new art!