Finding the right piece of art to display in your home can be both exciting and challenging. You want something that will be fresh and unique in your space, but that still falls within your price range.
While you could head to your local home goods store and grab something from the mass-produced “wall art” section or pay a fortune for a gallery piece, there is a simpler solution—shopping local and online independent artists! Check out some of the biggest advantages of supporting independent artists:
1) You’re also supporting local communities.
When you buy from independent artists, your money goes directly in their pocket and then, ultimately, right back into their local economy. Whether they’re from your area or not, you can feel good knowing you’re contributing to a local community instead of a retail chain or gallery commission. That direct financial support from you allows community creators to continue creating.
2) It’s a more personal experience.
Buying art at a store or through a gallery doesn’t afford the same opportunity for consumer-artist connection you get when buying from artists directly. When buying independent, you’re able to learn about the individual artist either online or by communicating with them directly in person or via social media. This gives you a chance to better understand what motivates their art, adding a new and special layer of meaning to your piece.
3) Get an original artwork for a more affordable price.
An original art piece has a beautiful and unique quality that enhances your home. Originals can be expensive, but buying from an independent artist makes them far more accessible versus buying through a gallery or collector. The piece you buy will be a one-of-a-kind artwork that no one else has but you. Plus, as the artist produces more work and potentially becomes more popular over time, your original may even increase in value—making it the perfect heirloom to pass down through the family.
If you’re in search of a special new piece to add something different to your home, look no further than Tobi Collage Etc. Tobi is an award-winning independent fiber artist who designs and creates unique quilted artwork and wearable knitted items in a one-person operation. In addition to originals, almost all of her work is available as a print or note card.
Shop the online store today and feel good knowing you’re supporting an independent artist!