She flew thru my doorway in an enthusiastic flurry.
“Do not let me walk out of here spending more than four hundred dollars.”
She spoke like an old friend, thou, this was the first time we had met.
“I have a budget.”

With an engaging smile, she buzzed from painting to painting like a bee in a jar.
Comfortable in the space, as she paced her excited chatter echoed thru the studio.
My customary offering of viewing privacy was met with a casual wave of her hand, and emphatic no.
She peppered me with questions.

Slightly stunned, I found her utterly refreshing.

My new client left, delightedly staying within budget.
Two treasured paintings in tow.

NEW Tree Study 8×10 oil on board~ avail for purchase

NEW Northern Forest 24×30 Oil- avail for purchase

Dialogue is an important part of client/ dealer/ artist relationship.

To some people’s surprise ‘budget’ and original art may happily co-exist.
“Budget” isn’t a bad word, it’s a starting point.

When I first launched a website, dealers discouraged pricing directly on the site.
The client was encouraged to inquire for pricing and further information.
By communicating your needs the Artist/ Dealer may assist you, and help refine the process.

Purchasing an original painting isn’t quite like buying a couch
(“does that come in purple?”), but you should be just as comfortable buying one.

Let’s say you were to fall in love with a painting online, it’s price listed beyond your budget, or size not your preference.
Discouraged, you don’t pursue it further.
If you had inquired, a smaller piece, similar style, not shown online, is available within your budget.
With some prolific painters, not all available paintings are shown online, or in the studio.
Galleries may have a ‘back room’ of work not displayed, or network available to source out the work/ Artist you request.

The Artist/ Dealer may offer to add you to a list if similar genre becomes available within your means.
Most offer flexible payment plans.

Some clients have been on a mailing list for 5 years or more before purchasing the right piece.
It’s extra special for both of us when the right paintings sing for them.
Winter Study- new- 8×10 oil on board

When a representing gallery posted pricing, it solidified my choice to do so on my site over a year ago.
I have included how pricing was established, hoping to clear up any questions that some may be too shy to ask.

Artists/Gallery Dealers who are vague about prices, inconsistent, or cannot provide documentation, may not be of the professional caliber that you seek.
It’s a fairly straightforward process.
By all means, feel free to announce “I have a budget” when we talk. :0)