Shopping for Inexpensive Art: Eight Sources

If you're tired of staring at blank walls consider these sources for inexpensive works of art to liven up your home.

1. Flea markets are often excellent sources of artwork for a reasonable cost. You can find prints and paintings often framed and ready to go. Consider repainting old frames or refinishing them if they are a quality wood.

2. Local arts and crafts shows are a great place to find bargains as well as support up and coming artists. If you had a particular subject or style in mind, this is also a great place to ask around to find someone who might work in the style you are interested in.

3. Post a notice at your local college art school. You might even want to give the high school art department a call. Student artists can do quality work and will often sell it at next to nothing. The excitement that someone is interested in them and wants to display their work in their home and is willing to pay can provide encouragement to the next generation of artists. There is always the chance that the inexpensive art you buy today might be created by the famous artist of the future. It just might be an investment!

4. Check the yellow pages for art lessons. In addition to teaching classes, art teachers usually produce art and will most likely be glad to show you what they have available for a reasonable cost.

5. Do a search on eBay. Some of the best bargains can be found on internet auctions. Markets are often glutted, and sellers are eager to unload their wares at a cheap price, making this an excellent source of low-cost art.

6. Consider wall decals. They might not be fine art, but there is a wide assortment available from several companies. You will most likely be able to find something to match your tastes and needs. Wall decals are usually made out of thin vinyl and are easy to apply. Some are even repositionable.

7. Post an ad on your local free cycle group. These groups provide a place for people to give their unwanted items to others. If you join, it will usually be expected that you will give away some stuff too, but it isn't absolutely necessary. You might just score some free artwork and rescue some things from the landfill at the same time.

8. Stop at garage sales. People redecorate all the time, and their artwork is often that first thing to go. Just a quick glance at a garage sale will usually let you know if they have something you might be interested. Most sellers are willing to haggle, so don't think the sticker price is the final price.

If none of the above suggestions pan out, you just might want to consider creating something yourself. There are lots of tutorials on the internet to help you create a one of a kind work of art perfect for you!