How Much Should You Spend on Original Art?
Buying original art is exciting, but one of the first questions most people ask is: "How much should I spend?"
The truth is, there isn't a magic number.
Unlike buying a sofa or dining table, purchasing art isn't about ticking a box. It's about finding a piece that resonates with you and feels right for your home, your lifestyle and your budget.
Whether you're purchasing your very first artwork or adding to a growing collection, here's how to think about your budget.
There isn't a "right" amount to spend
One of the biggest misconceptions about collecting art is that you need thousands of dollars to begin. In reality, original artworks are available across a wide range of price points.
Many emerging Australian artists sell original works from around $500 to a few thousand dollars, while more established artists naturally command higher prices based on their experience, exhibition history and demand.
The most important thing isn't how much you spend, it's buying something you'll genuinely enjoy living with.
Buy the best artwork you can comfortably afford
Rather than setting an arbitrary budget because you think you "should" spend a certain amount, consider what feels comfortable for your financial situation.
A beautiful artwork that stretches your finances may ultimately cause unnecessary stress, while buying something simply because it's inexpensive can sometimes lead to regret if it isn't a piece you truly love.
Aim for the sweet spot: an artwork that excites you and fits comfortably within your means.
Remember that you're buying something you'll live with every day
Unlike many purchases, artwork doesn't get packed away after a season or replaced every few years. It becomes part of your daily life.
You'll walk past it countless times, share it with friends and family, and often discover new details the longer you live with it. When viewed over many years, the value of living with an artwork you love often outweighs the initial purchase price.
Quality over quantity
It can be tempting to fill every blank wall as quickly as possible. Don’t fall into this trap. Instead, consider collecting slowly and start with one hero piece.
One carefully chosen artwork can have far more impact than several pieces bought simply to decorate a space.
Many of the most interesting collections have been built gradually over years, with each acquisition reflecting a different chapter in the collector's life.
What influences the price of an artwork?
Artwork pricing isn't random.
Some of the factors that contribute to value include:
The artist's exhibition history
Awards, prizes and residencies
Representation by commercial galleries
Medium and materials
Scale of the work
Time required to create it
Demand from collectors
The artist's career progression
Understanding these factors can help you appreciate why two seemingly similar artworks may be priced very differently.
Should you buy art as an investment?
It's natural to wonder whether an artwork will increase in value. While some artworks do appreciate over time, predicting the art market is difficult, even for experienced collectors.
If investment is your only motivation, you're likely to be disappointed.
Instead, buy work that you genuinely connect with. If its financial value grows over time, that's an added bonus rather than the sole reason for purchasing it.
Consider the bigger picture
When budgeting, remember that the artwork itself isn't always the only cost.
Depending on the piece, you may also want to factor in:
Professional framing
Delivery
Installation
Insurance (particularly for higher-value works)
These additional costs help ensure your artwork is properly presented and cared for.
Working with an art advisor
One of the advantages of working with an independent art advisor is having someone who understands both your budget and the broader market.
Rather than showing you the most expensive works available, a good advisor helps you discover artists whose work aligns with your taste while making the most of your budget.
Often, that means introducing you to emerging and mid-career artists you may never have found on your own.
Final thoughts
There is no perfect amount to spend on original art.
The right budget is one that allows you to purchase work you genuinely love without financial pressure.
The most rewarding collections aren't defined by price tags, they're built through curiosity, thoughtful choices and a lasting connection to the artists and artworks you bring into your home.
Ready to find the right artwork?
Whether you're working with a modest budget or building a significant collection, Kaplan Art Projects offers personalised art advisory tailored to your goals, taste and budget. From discovering Australian artists to navigating galleries and the purchasing process, we're here to make collecting art feel approachable and enjoyable.
Book your complimentary consultation via our Contact page to discuss your project and learn how we can help you collect with confidence.
