Artistic License
Laree Payne (Gallery), 2023. Image by Kate Micaela, commissioned by Art Collector Magazine.
It was a big year for Laree Payne Gallery on Victoria Street - in addition to the year’s worth of exhibitions Payne took the Gallery to present at the Aotearoa Art Fair in Tāmaki Makaurau in March and then to Sydney Contemporary in September. Payne possibly has the most knowledgeable, immaculate taste in Kirikiriroa - and the inexperienced art buyer would do well to trust her curation. But strike up a conversation, and you’ll find she is full of advice on building a collection that’s personal and specific to you; so that you continue to love the pieces on your walls for years, and possibly decades, to come. Especially for those of us with a little less experience. As told to The Waikato Draft.
What’s your approach to buying art, over and above simply liking a piece?
In our household, we are relatively slow buyers, who almost never buy upon our first encounter with an artist's work. We like to identify an artist we believe is making interesting work and follow them – follow their exhibitions, read exhibition texts and reviews, and gather a sense of their practice as a whole. We have bought works which we have outgrown, now, I try to be patient and discerning, knowing that I want to really enjoy the work we are fortunate enough to live with over a long period of time.
Some new clients recently purchased a couple of works from an exhibition and in doing so, shared that they like to do that each year on or around their wedding anniversary. They have been doing this for many years, and now have an incredible collection of work which they have grown together, over the course of their relationship, which brings them joy as it speaks to and is reflective of their shared interests.
Any tips for readers who want to start buying a few pieces of art, but don't know where to start?
When buying art, the single biggest tip I have is get out there and have a look. I can't stress the importance of seeing a work in person - it's near impossible to get a true sense of an artwork's scale, materiality, colour, texture, finish etc through a screen. Speak to the gallerist, ask questions and start to build some ideas around what you like, or don't like.
Also, have a think about your budget. If your budget is under $750 then it may be a case of visiting some graduate exhibitions. If it's over $1,500 then you're likely in a position to speak with a dealer gallery. Additionally, there are organisations such as MyArt who offer interest free loans to purchase works over $1,000, which can be so helpful when you are first starting out, allowing you to stretch a little further.
Taste and art is such a deeply personal thing. Is it ever a good idea to buy art as a gift for another person?
This is so tricky! The general rule is don't do it.
What are some key things to remember when you’re buying art?
Consider why you are wanting to start a collection. There are so many potential motivations here). When buying, come back to these motivations and check in - does the work align with my 'why'?
Take your time.
Try to avoid compromise - owning and living with artwork is so personal, it's important to get the work you love. Whether you're considering compromise as the work you love is sold or above your budget, speak with the gallery. Generally speaking, galleries are most happy to notify you when new works by a particular artist become available, or if your budget is the sticking point, again, speak with the gallery. Most galleries are happy to work with you to pay down a work or consider the likes of MyArt (a non-profit doing god's work).
