Where do you buy reasonably priced art?

[lopyrs]

Sorry if this is a daft question.

I'd like to buy some artwork for our bedroom, I'm picturing some charcoal drawings, perhaps of a somewhat romantic nature, like drawings of a couple but really subtle outlines if that makes sense, not really 'obvious' or cheesy.

My town doesn't have an art gallery or anything like that and even then I'm not sure if I'm being a bit too specific?!

Thanks all, lots for me to look at.

Student shows at FE colleges or universities (not just 'art schools').

I've used artists quarter website and found them very good x

if you are into buying original works (and original prints - ie limited edition runs by the artist, rather than mass reproduction) you can get support with financing here: https://www.ownart.org.uk/ in the form of an interest free loan.

If you know that you like a type of drawing rather than other media I would aim to buy the orginal rather than a print. The texture and technique is part of the experience of it, rather than a shiny reproduction. Drawings tend to be cheaper than other mediums anyway. Also if you do come across an artist whose work you like - they will often have dealers/galleries across the country.

As PP have said public galleries often have a selection of posters and prints of their own collections and new work. I recently bought a beautiful glicee print of a painting that I love from the National Portrait Gallery, it's not quite the same as having the 2x2m original but I don't have the wall space anyway! https://npgshop.org.uk/?_gl=11t3zzz2_upMQ.._gaMTk3MDY4MDg0OC4xNzM3ODAwOTIw_ga_3D53N72CHJ*MTczNzgwMDkxOC4xLjEuMTczNzgwMDk3Ny4wLjAuMA.. (they distinguish between "wall art" and "editions" ).

Local commercial art galleries are useful, often online and support loal artists.
Sites like https://www.riseart.com/
https://murus.art/
https://www.cambridgegallery.co.uk/

However, just looking at the https://www.kingandmcgaw.com website (can't believe I didn't know about this). I am now going to remortgage the house so I can buy myself an entire gallery full.

(can you tell I am excited for you!)

Yes, this. I’ve bought things from student shows the last few years. Also, OP, even if there’s no local gallery there will almost certainly be some form of artists’ collective or group that may do open studios etc. There’s a local printmakers’ group here around here that periodically either exhibit in their space or take over a disused shop for a pop-up.

Depending on your tastes, auctions can be great places to pick up inexpensive original artwork. We have a varied collection of paintings and ceramic wall pieces picked up from as little as about £40 up to about £900. Watch out for auction house fees though as they can be a bit steep.

If you're into that soft, textured style, like subtle outlines, natural tones, or anything that feels a bit organic and not overly polished, check out Ritu Raj. The work leans more abstract, but there’s a really calm, emotional feel to it. Might not be exactly what you had in mind with charcoal couples, but some of the pieces have that same intimate energy without being too on-the-nose.

Also seconding what others said about art school degree shows and local collectives, some of my favourite pieces came from browsing those with zero expectations.

I’m an artist! I sell professionally and exhibit regularly. My credentials are at www.JulietJames.gallery. I do commissions and sell art canvases and prints — contemporary woman, yoga, flowy lines, a bit like Matisse. Also on Facebook / Insta. I’m always happy to negotiate reasonable prices 😍

yes this is brilliant - amazing work that has already been selected by people who know what they are doing in the art world.

Agree and Thankyou for re starting this thread again

For anyone wanting to have a go at getting their art exhibited entries close 7th January.

Why not have a go with a new challenge mumsnetters 🎨

Thanks for resurrecting this, I ended up going to a local art gallery and buying something by a local artist which I’m very happy with. I am now eyeing up Felicity Souter online.

I’m eyeing up these from a photographers website / insta at the moment.

benw.photo

Just love them

Loads of brilliant ideas here, but I would really encourage you to look for some art you really like and hang that rather than thinking in advance about the type of thing you are looking for. There is nothing worse than art that has been chosen to 'match' or coordinate with the decor. If you consistently buy things you love you will eventually end up with a coherent collection that reflects your tastes. And never skimp on the framing, it may on occasion cost more than the artwork, but it is so worth it.

Agree with the framing there. It can really set off a piece.

Bought these two last month ( really need to get the the framers as @kornwall mentions )
I do love Childishs work ( although tbh prefer his earlier stuff ). Our house is like a Childish exhibition space 😆