5 Affordable Art Pieces to Invest In and Add to Your Collection

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 20 June 2023 8 min read

Investing in art doesn't have to break the bank. In fact, there are plenty of affordable art pieces to add to your collection that can also be a wise investment. In this blog, we will explore five types of affordable art to invest in and where to find them. So, let's dive in and start building your art collection without emptying your wallet.

1. Emerging Artists

Emerging artists are a great source of affordable art to invest in. These are talented individuals who are just starting to gain recognition in the art world. By investing in their work early on, you have a chance to own a piece of their journey and potentially see your investment grow as their careers take off.

Artist Spotlight

Some emerging artists to keep an eye on include Heather Day, known for her abstract paintings, and Yinka Ilori, a talented furniture and product designer. Another promising artist is Alice Neave, who creates vibrant, captivating oil paintings. These artists have already started making a name for themselves, and their work is not only visually stunning but also affordable.

Where to Find Emerging Artists

Discovering emerging artists is easier than you might think. Here are a few places to look:

Art fairs – Art fairs are a fantastic way to discover new talent and find affordable art to invest in. Events like the Affordable Art Fair or SCOPE Art Show showcase a variety of artists at different stages in their careers.
Online platforms – Websites like Saatchi Art and Artsy are treasure troves for finding emerging artists. You can browse through thousands of pieces and even filter your search by price range, making it easier to find art within your budget.
Local galleries – Don't forget to explore your local art scene! Visit nearby galleries and art spaces to find up-and-coming artists in your area. You might just stumble upon the next big thing in the art world.

By supporting emerging artists and investing in their work, you not only have the opportunity to grow your art collection affordably but also contribute to the success of talented individuals at the beginning of their careers.

2. Limited Edition Prints

Limited edition prints are another excellent source of affordable art to invest in. These prints are produced in a set number, making them more valuable than open edition prints. As the artist's popularity grows, so does the demand for their limited edition prints, increasing their value over time.

Popular Print Artists

Some well-known artists who have released limited edition prints include Shepard Fairey, creator of the iconic "Hope" poster, and Banksy, the elusive street artist. Other notable print artists are KAWS, known for his distinct characters and designs, and Takashi Murakami, famous for his vibrant, playful artwork. These artists have a strong following, and their limited edition prints can be a great addition to your art collection.

Finding Limited Edition Prints

Here are some tips on where to find limited edition prints:

Artist's websites – Many artists sell their limited edition prints directly through their websites. Be sure to follow your favorite artists on social media to stay updated on new releases.
Online galleries – Platforms like 1xRUN and Printed Editions specialize in limited edition prints, making it easy to find and invest in these unique pieces.
Physical galleries – Don't forget to check out galleries that showcase print artists. They may have limited edition prints available for purchase, or they can point you in the right direction.

Investing in limited edition prints is a smart way to add affordable art to your collection while also owning a piece of an artist's legacy.

3. Photography Art

Photography art is another fantastic option when looking for affordable art to invest in. As with other types of art, investing in photography can be a rewarding experience both aesthetically and financially, especially if you choose works by renowned photographers or up-and-coming talents.

Famous Photographers

Some well-known photographers whose work you may consider investing in include Annie Leibovitz, famous for her captivating celebrity portraits, and Steve McCurry, known for his breathtaking images of people and places around the world. Other notable photographers are Cindy Sherman, who explores identity and representation through self-portraiture, and Gregory Crewdson, known for his cinematic, staged photographs.

Buying Photography Art

Here are some tips on where to buy photography art:

Photography galleries – Visit galleries that specialize in photography to discover both established and emerging photographers.
Online platforms – Websites like LUMAS and YellowKorner offer a curated selection of photography art, making it easy to find pieces that suit your taste and budget.
Art fairs and festivals – Keep an eye out for photography-focused art fairs like Paris Photo and PHOTOFAIRS, where you can explore a wide range of photography art from around the world.

Photography art is a versatile and accessible way to invest in affordable art, enriching your collection with captivating images that tell a story.

4. Vintage Posters

Another interesting option for affordable art to invest in is vintage posters. These eye-catching pieces not only make unique decorative statements but can also appreciate in value over time, particularly if they are rare or in good condition.

Collecting Vintage Posters

When collecting vintage posters, consider the following factors:

Subject matter – Popular themes include movie posters, travel posters, and advertising posters. Choose a theme that resonates with you and complements your existing collection.
Condition – The condition of a poster plays a significant role in its value. Look for posters with minimal wear and tear, and avoid those with significant damage or fading.
Authenticity – Make sure to purchase authentic vintage posters, as reproductions or fakes will not hold their value. Check for signs of age, like yellowing paper, and consult experts if you're unsure.

Collecting vintage posters can be a fun and rewarding way to invest in affordable art while preserving a piece of history.

Sources for Vintage Posters

Here are some places to find vintage posters:

Online marketplaces – Platforms like eBay and Ruby Lane offer a wide range of vintage posters from various sellers. Make sure to research the poster's authenticity and condition before purchasing.
Antique shops and flea markets – These venues can be treasure troves for vintage posters. Keep an eye out for hidden gems, and don't be afraid to negotiate the price.
Auctions – Look for auctions specializing in vintage posters, where you can find a curated selection of high-quality pieces. Research the auction house's reputation and the estimated value of the posters before bidding.

Vintage posters can make a striking addition to your art collection while offering an affordable investment opportunity.

5. Sculptures

Finally, sculptures offer another avenue for affordable art to invest in. While some sculptures can be quite expensive, there are many smaller, more affordable pieces by talented artists that can add depth and variety to your collection.

Sculpture Styles

Consider the following styles when investing in sculptures:

Abstract – Abstract sculptures focus on shape, form, and color rather than representing a specific object. They can be a great conversation starter and add a modern touch to your collection.
Figurative – Figurative sculptures depict recognizable subjects, like people or animals, and can range from realistic to stylized. These pieces can add a sense of familiarity and warmth to your collection.
Functional – Functional sculptures serve a dual purpose, combining art with utility. Examples include sculptural furniture or decorative objects that double as storage solutions.

Choose a sculpture style that speaks to you and complements your existing collection, while also considering its potential appreciation over time.

Where to Buy Sculptures

Here are some places to find affordable sculptures:

Online galleries – Websites like Artfinder and Saatchi Art offer a wide range of sculptures from artists around the world. Filter by price to find pieces within your budget.
Art fairs – Art fairs often showcase sculptures from emerging artists, providing an opportunity to discover new talent and invest in their work early on.
Local galleries – Visit galleries in your area that feature sculptures to find pieces by local artists, which can be both affordable and unique to your region.

Investing in sculptures can be an exciting way to diversify your art collection and add value with affordable, one-of-a-kind pieces.

4. Vintage Posters

Collecting Vintage Posters

When collecting vintage posters, consider the following factors:

Subject matter – Popular themes include movie posters, travel posters, and advertising posters. Choose a theme that resonates with you and complements your existing collection.
Condition – The condition of a poster plays a significant role in its value. Look for posters with minimal wear and tear, and avoid those with significant damage or fading.
Authenticity – Make sure to purchase authentic vintage posters, as reproductions or fakes will not hold their value. Check for signs of age, like yellowing paper, and consult experts if you're unsure.

Collecting vintage posters can be a fun and rewarding way to invest in affordable art while preserving a piece of history.

Sources for Vintage Posters

Here are some places to find vintage posters:

Online marketplaces – Platforms like eBay and Ruby Lane offer a wide range of vintage posters from various sellers. Make sure to research the poster's authenticity and condition before purchasing.
Antique shops and flea markets – These venues can be treasure troves for vintage posters. Keep an eye out for hidden gems, and don't be afraid to negotiate the price.
Auctions – Look for auctions specializing in vintage posters, where you can find a curated selection of high-quality pieces. Research the auction house's reputation and the estimated value of the posters before bidding.

Vintage posters can make a striking addition to your art collection while offering an affordable investment opportunity.

5. Sculptures

If you're looking to diversify your collection, sculptures are another form of affordable art to invest in. They add a three-dimensional aspect to your collection and can be found in various materials, styles, and sizes to suit your preferences.

Sculpture Styles

Here are some popular sculpture styles to consider:

Abstract – Abstract sculptures use shapes, forms, and colors to create a visually intriguing piece. These can be made from various materials like metal, stone, or glass.
Figurative – Figurative sculptures depict recognizable subjects, such as people or animals, and can range from realistic to stylized representations.
Miniature – Small-scale sculptures are perfect for those with limited space or who want to start with a more affordable investment. Miniature sculptures can be just as detailed and impressive as their larger counterparts.

When selecting sculptures to invest in, consider your personal taste, available space, and budget.

Where to Buy Sculptures

Here are some places to find affordable sculptures for your collection:

Online galleries – Many online art galleries showcase sculptures from both established and emerging artists. Browse their selections to find pieces that match your style and budget.
Art fairs and festivals – These events can be a great way to discover new artists and find unique sculptures at various price points. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to meet the artists and learn more about their work.
Local art studios – Visiting local artists' studios can give you a glimpse into their creative process and allow you to find one-of-a-kind pieces at affordable prices.

Investing in sculptures can add depth and variety to your art collection while remaining budget-friendly. Explore different styles and sources to find the perfect piece that reflects your taste and complements your existing collection.

If you're interested in expanding your knowledge on art investments, don't miss out on the workshop titled 'How to Invest in Art' by Ciarra K. Walters. This workshop will provide you with valuable insights, tips, and strategies to make smart investments in the art world and grow your art collection with confidence.