As the year comes to a close, so too will this 3 part series. I hope those of you that have been reading along have gathered some useful tips and information. In this final installment I hope to share a few more thoughts and offer some constructive ways to put the series to good use during your art explorations.

Let me start with an analogy I often use with purchasing and appreciating art. Art, is in so many ways like wine, in that there is something for everybody, something to suit a variety of tastes and budgets. Most important is knowing there is no rule book, it's simply subjective. You don't have to like what others like or because it's trendy, but it's okay to as well, remember, no rule book. If you like it, for whatever the reason, if it makes you feel good, well then, that's the only rule book you really need. This I would guess also includes purchasing art as an investment. Collectors do purchase art for this reason too. I have always said this though, "don't buy art for it's ability to appreciate, but rather for your ability to appreciate it and you won't lose a penny".

As with wine, old and rare almost always affects the price, but with contemporary art (living artists) and newer wine, an artist's name, popularity, reputation, biographical information, etc. tend to do the same. As with wine, understanding the taste can be complex and often require experience to fully appreciate it and art is no different. But, even with a lot of experience, two collector's or wine taster's opinions will differ and isn't that great. For if we all liked the same thing, life and the world around us I think would be rather boring.

Buy what you like. Let your taste grow and mature with time.

In keeping with the no rule book theme, comes the question, "can I have different types of art in the same room?" Yes, you can have whatever you want. Okay, so now let me follow that with a tip. I think the main thing you should think about when having any art together, be it paintings, sculpture, fiber, etc., is continuity. As with anything in your room, continuity brings meaning and understanding. Continuity can be as simple as colors that work together and as complicated as a theme or narrative aspect. An example would be a room that gave you the feeling of Africa. With no rules, you could put a painting of a colorful Paris street scene on the wall, but continuity would likely ask why and prefer it to be a majestic sunset over the Serengeti plains. If though, you have a wide variety in taste towards art, this could become your theme and continuity. And if it feels like home, I say, go for it! It's the "life's too short" theory. Enjoy!

When searching for art, always remember there are many sources. Art galleries certainly are a logical start, but there are many shows, art events and artist studios that can also be helpful. Whatever source you choose though, parts 1 & 2 of this series are good to keep in mind. Ask questions, don't be afraid to look at more than just the "I like it value".

As well, while almost impossible to do at art events, bringing art to your house before purchasing, I feel especially with expensive pieces, is a reasonable thing to do. Now when doing this, I personally also feel it's best when it is brought to you, the collector, rather than you taking it from the store yourself. It starts with a question of responsibility, care and transporting of expensive items and in most, but not all cases, the art is on consignment and not actually owned by the gallery. It can work fine with smaller pieces, larger ones can be a problem and each gallery has their own policies with regard to this. Be sure to ask.

When I personally bring art to a collector's home though, I rarely bring one painting or just one size. I figure both of our time is valuable and just looking at one thing is limiting. You can learn about how different paintings affect your room in the way of color and scale that would be otherwise difficult to know. This would also be true of sculpture. There should never be any obligation to buy, so why not try a few things, even in a few different places. It can be interesting, you can learn from the experience and it's fun. So, if a gallery or artist is making a visit, you may ask to see more than one thing.

Well, that brings our little series to a close. I hope it's been helpful and that you find that special piece you've been looking for. Try to enjoy the hunt as much as the find and then look forward to enjoying it for a lifetime.

Tom Neel 540-364-4401 or www.tomneeelstudio.com and now also at Trowbridge-Lewis Galleries, Middleburg.