This is my second part of this blog subject. As such I’m going to go into how to collect an aviation artist. Most aviation art is in a realistic or hyper-realistic style, so I’ll focus on that.
Aviation art holds a special allure for pilots and history collectors, offering a tangible connection to the world and moments of flight through time. Continuing with this blog series, I will provide valuable tips and insights for enthusiasts and collectors interested in building their art collection. From budget considerations to researching artists and ensuring authenticity, this guide will help you embark on your journey as an aviation art collector. I have been learning about certified appraisals of art, so feel free to reach out to me in the comments below or directly if that is what you are looking for.
The most important factors you need to consider as an collector of this art niche is:
- Establishing Your Budget:
When starting your aviation art collection, it’s important to establish a budget that aligns with your collecting goals and financial capabilities. While some prints are accessible at a few hundred dollars, rarer and more sought-after pieces can command higher prices. As an artist myself, I recognize the value of creating artwork that caters to various budgets, ensuring that there are options available for collectors at different price points. - Defining Your Interests:
Aviation art encompasses a wide range of subjects and styles. Before diving into collecting, take the time to define your specific interests within the genre. Are you drawn to military aircraft, commercial airliners, or perhaps the human element of aviation? By identifying your preferences, you can focus your collection and create a cohesive narrative that resonates with your passion for flight. - Conducting Thorough Research:
To make informed collecting decisions, invest time in researching aviation artists and their bodies of work. Explore their artistic techniques, themes, and the historical context behind their pieces. Additionally, learn about the reputability of dealers and galleries, ensuring that you source authentic and high-quality artworks. As an artist who has conducted extensive research in developing my aviation art, I understand the importance of immersing oneself in the subject matter to create authentic and compelling pieces. - Building Relationships with Dealers and Artists:
Forge relationships with reputable dealers and artists in the aviation art community. Attend exhibitions, art fairs, and gallery openings to connect with like-minded individuals and gain insights from experienced collectors. Engaging with artists directly can provide a deeper understanding of their artistic process and allow you to acquire pieces directly from the source. As an artist, I value the relationships formed with collectors, and their support has been instrumental in the growth of my own art. - Ensuring Authenticity:
When purchasing aviation art, particularly limited edition prints, it’s essential to ensure the authenticity of the artwork. Verify the edition number, accompanying certificates of authenticity, and the reputation of the publisher. Reputable dealers will provide documentation and transparency regarding the origin and provenance of the artwork. As an artist, I am committed to providing collectors with authentic and genuine pieces, preserving the integrity of my art.
Embarking on an aviation art collection is an exciting and rewarding process, especially if you have history with a given period in time (like WWII) or with a particular aircraft you have an emotional connection to. In writing this, I’ve found some pieces that I like of aircraft like the Black Widow night bomber in WWII. Most pieces are very personal to the collector and their passion for flight. Be sure to establish a budget, defining your interests, conducting thorough research, building relationships, and ensure authenticity so that you can curate a collection that reflects your love in the air.
As an artist who blends historical narratives and artistic surrealism in his own aviation art, I invite you to explore the possibilities and celebrate the beauty of aeronautics through art.
– Nova