How to Fake an Appreciation of Art

While public schools continue to slash their arts and culture budgets, art appreciation has become more of a privilege in society and a mark of the cultural elite. These days, many people just don't have access to the arts, yet in some circles, people equate art appreciation with sophistication and higher education. Whatever your reason for wanting to fake an appreciation of art, these creative steps can help you pretend you know art.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decorate your home with original paintings. They don't have to be "good" (whatever that means) and best of all, they don't even have to be yours–many art galleries offer affordable rental options for their "retired" pieces. When you tell your guests that the paintings are original works from an art gallery, your fake appreciation will seem like a genuine, vested interest.

2. Pretend to attend art shows. If you have a Facebook account, you can RSVP your attendance to any number of local arts events. A notice will show up on your friends' Facebook pages that you attended the show–even if you didn't. If you don't have a Facebook account, leave flyers or newsletters promoting art shows scattered around your home or workspace.

3. Purchase inexpensive items branded with famous paintings. Whether it's key chain with "The Mona Lisa," stationary with "Starry Night" or a magnet featuring "The Last Supper", when people spot these items, they will associate you with fine art.

4. Donate money to a local art gallery. Art galleries recognize their donors in the annual review, on plaques and through other public displays. When people see that you support the arts, they'll assume that you must also appreciate them.

5. Survey artwork intently. If you're at an art show, give each piece careful consideration. If you furrow your brows as though you're deep in thought, you can fake an intense interest.

6. Make ambiguous statements with lots of conviction. If someone wants to engage in dialog about a certain piece, say something, like "Wow! Just wow!" which could mean you think the piece is anything from ridiculous to amazing.