Buying art? Advice from curator Michael Aiello

Choosing a work of art is a fascinating challenge. How do you find out what you like and what to look out for when buying art? Don't be put off by the wide range of styles and techniques. Don't worry about the condition of a piece of art on Whoppah, our art expert Michael Aiello will check it for you. Whether you're a novice art buyer or an experienced collector, these golden tips will make choosing a work of art a fun voyage of discovery!

EvelienMarch 2023

1. Discover your taste by looking

Michael: "One piece of advice I often give is not to do too much research to find out what you like about a work of art or a style, because that raises the threshold for discovering art. To discover what you like, you first have to look around you. You automatically come across something when you open yourself up to it. By visiting museums or galleries, for example, you gradually learn to discover your tastes."

See all the artworks on Whoppah here

2. Choose works of art that appeal to you immediately

"Art is like love: you fall in love with it as soon as it touches you. How can you tell? It stays in your head after you've seen it. You know then that you really want it and that it will never bore you."

3. Having second thoughts? Spend the night sleeping on the spot

"Don't fall for it straight away? What you shouldn't do is buy something just because you think it will be worth more, for example. As soon as you start to have doubts, it's best to think about it overnight".

4. Visualise the ideal place

"Whether it's a sculpture or a painting, you'll always find a beautiful place for a work of art you're in love with. However, it's worth bearing in mind that art doesn't like to be hung or placed in damp or sunny places. It's also important to have photos, paintings or prints professionally framed. Unlike factory-made frames, these are free from acid and preservatives, so the artwork will last a lifetime. That's something to consider when you've found the artwork of your dreams!

What does Michael look out for when curating art?

Thinking of buying art? Be inspired by our wide selection of works of art. Each item is checked by our curator Michael, who applies the knowledge he has gained over the last 15 years. Michael: "I look at different aspects, such as the materials used, the writing, the numbering, the size and the colour of the artwork. I also check whether the creator is registered with the Dutch Institute of Art History and/or has attended an art academy. I also pay attention to the technique used by the artist and the history and origin of the work of art.