When someone says the words “contemporary art”, most people think abstract art are images that are less than realistic.  Meanwhile, contemporary art is defined as any art produced since the 1950’s.  This means that just about anyone can find a piece of contemporary art that suits his or her decorating style.  This means it is perfectly acceptable to purchase contemporary art for your home. 

Contemporary art can be a major investment depending on the popularity of the artist (many of whom are still living).  If you are looking to purchase a painted piece of investment art or a print, be sure that the artist has signed the piece and dated it.  There should be some markings on the artwork that makes it unique or that indicates that it is at least rare.

Contemporary art comes in many styles.  You can find abstract wall art, impressionistic, photorealism, Electronic art, and even software art to display in your home.  You will find subjects like painted ladies to wonderful floral designs and art that blurs the lines between the styles and subjects. 

One piece of artwork that blurs the line between subjects and styles is this Sesia Super Nova Contemporary Metal Wall Hanging.  It can resemble different subjects depending on the angle of your glance and the mood of the observer.  It appears to be a floral piece and abstract work at the same time.  Similarly, it could easily be mistaken for photography or even a painting, but it is actually made from forged metal.   This three-piece art set can be displayed in any number of ways and when displayed together is 42” H X 54” wide.  It is about 1 ½ inches deep (thickness). 

Whatever type of contemporary art you decide to purchase, the most important thing is that you like it to the point of having an emotional response to it.  Never purchase art that you are only luke-warm about in opposed to being absolutely crazy about it. 

• November 2007