Creating a space that represents who you are as an individual or business is already a challenging task. Achieving this while also meeting your interior design goals makes it even more complex. Maybe it wouldn’t be if we weren’t all confined by the reality of budgets. If money was not a factor, I’m sure all our houses and offices would be filled with beautiful original art by contemporary and historical artists. While an original Klimt or Van Gogh is probably out of reach for most of us, what about contemporary artists? How do you decide between an original painting vs print?
I’ve put together this quick 9 question quiz to help you decide.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of buying an original painting vs a print in more detail to help you make the perfect choice.
Pros and Cons of buying an original painting
- Pros:
- Uniqueness: Owning an original one-of-a-kind painting gives your space a unique feel.
- Investment potential: Originals can appreciate in value over time.
- Texture: Brushstrokes and textures in an original painting can create a richer visual experience.
- Emotional connection: Local scenes evoke a sense of community pride and personal connection. It’s always a great conversation starter when someone has been to the location depicted in the painting. For example, in my work I depict scenes from Hamilton and Ontario. I find my collectors almost always have a connection to the locations I paint.
- Legacy: Originals can become cherished heirlooms passed down through generations.
- Sustainability: Original paintings are meant to last. They are unlikely to end up in a landfill with the prints sold at popular home decor stores.
- Supporting local artists: People who own original paintings are seen as individuals who support their community.
- Cons:
- Higher cost: Original paintings typically require a larger investment.
- Maintenance: Proper care is necessary for longevity, such as keeping humidity below 60% and out of direct sunlight.
Pros and cons of buying a print
- Pros:
- Affordability: Prints offer a budget-friendly way to own a piece of art you love.
- Variety of sizes: Prints can be found in various sizes to fit your space, which makes customizability an option.
- Accessibility: Widely available from online retailers and galleries.
- Temporary: If you’re someone who constantly redesigns your space to keep up with trends, consider interchangeable artwork. It allows you to switch out pieces on a budget, which may make sense for you.
- Location: A print is better suited for places in your home or business with large humidity fluctuations. This includes areas like a bathroom or commercial kitchen.
- Cons:
- Limited edition vs. open edition: Consider the value difference between limited and open edition prints.
- Lack of texture: Prints can’t replicate the tactile experience of brushstrokes on canvas.
- Investment potential: Lower chance of appreciating in value compared to originals.
- Flat: Prints tend to have a flat feeling void of texture.
Conclusion: How to decide between original painting vs print
There’s no easy answer here. The decision depends on your budget, taste, and the purpose of the artwork. Consider:
- Budget: Originals require a larger investment, while prints offer affordability.
- Space: Choose a print size that complements your decor.
- Personal connection: Does the artwork evoke an emotional response?
- Investment: If future value is a concern, originals might be a better choice.
Personally, I own both original paintings, open edition prints and limited edition prints. Ideally, I’d like to replace all open edition prints with originals. However, it doesn’t make sense for me in some rooms in the house. For example, a child’s bedroom or bathroom.
My only advice is that if you are planning on buying an original painting, get something that brings you joy and that you feel a connection to.
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