How to Start an Abstract Expressionist Collection

Franz Kline painting

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Expressionism is an artistic style in which the artist distorts reality for an emotional effect. Abstract Expressionism is a further distortion of reality. Abstract Expressionist art gained its popularity in the 1950s. It is universally recognized as an American style of art, though its roots stretch back to the German Expressionism movement in film, the Futurism Movement in Italy, and the Cubism movement in France. Abstract Expressionistic paintings are moving and dramatic works that combine a variety of influences, materials and techniques into a highly transcendental viewer experiences. Collecting Abstract Expressionistic paintings can be a rewarding hobby, and is simple to do even for the novice collector.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Internet access
Library card
Newspaper
Business telephone directory

Step1

Clyfford Still oil on canvas Research Abstract Expressionistic art online and at your local library. Pay particular attention to influences that lead to the creation of the movement. Acquainting yourself with the prominent artists of the movement will also help you develop a good eye for collecting. Abstract Expressionistic paintings vary widely in media and color selection, brush stroke, line style and subject matter. Popular artists of the movement included Jackson Pollock, Willem De Kooning, Hans Hoffmann, Helen Frankenthaler and Barnett Newman (see Resources below).

Step2

Budget for your collection. Deciding early on what your budget will be will help you narrow your focus and make good purchasing decisions. A beginning collector will most likely not be able to purchase works by famous artists because of budget restrictions, but may be able to collect several works by a local or lesser known artists. If you do become interested in collecting works by famous artists, then it is best to consult an art broker for more information. Paintings by lesser known artists can come as low as $25 to as high as several thousand dollars, though paintings from the period usually find themselves in the $300 to $500 range. A beginning collector could also find substantial joy in collecting works by new artists, which cost substantially less, often are of archival quality and carry with them the chance of one day being very valuable. Alternatively, one could focus exclusively on purchasing reproductions of paintings, which are also less costly than originals.

Step3

Find paintings to purchase. Many works can be found for purchase online (see Resources below). Most commonly Abstract Expressionist paintings are lumped with other Abstract or Expressionistic paintings, so your previous research will help greatly in determining the difference. Newspapers will list current art fairs, gallery auctions or estate sales where Abstract Expressionist works can be found. A quick thumb through your local business directory will reveal local galleries, auction houses and art cooperatives. When possible, inspect all aspects of the artwork before purchasing, including the condition of the canvas, frame and any hanging hardware attached to ensure that they are in working order with no tears, dents or rust. When purchasing a work online, make sure you clearly understand the seller's exchange and refund policy.

Tips & Warnings

Your art collection should be insured in the event of damage or theft.
Pay less attention to the reputation of the artist and more to the quality of the piece and your personal feelings about it. The more you enjoy the painting, the more valuable it truly is.
Artists may occasionally sell in environments where bargaining is the norm, but in general prices for artwork are not negotiable, and attempting to haggle with the artist over price is impolite. However, some artists may be willing to arrange a payment plan or hold onto the painting for a specific amount of time.
Get a receipt for your purchase.
Beware of reproductions. There is no shame is purchasing a reproduction of a wonderful painting, but buying a painting only to later discover that it is a reproduction is not a good move. Do your research, and in the case of works by prominent artists, always require a certificate of authenticity or an appraisal before purchasing.