Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know the price is right?
Pricing is based on several factors, not the least of which is the price an artist can command. Naturally, if an artist can sell his/her art very readily the price tag will be higher based on basic supply and demand principles.
The uniqueness of a particular piece of art can also help to establish a price.
The most important criteria in determining whether the price is right is to work with a dealer who has established a credible track record. The W.T. Burger Co. has this kind of record.
How do I select a piece for investment?
To answer this question we define “investment” two ways:
- Investment - a possession acquired for future financial gain
- Investment - a relatively substantial outlay of financial resources to acquire a possession.
We, at the W.T. Burger Co. do not recommend buying a piece of art for the sole purpose of making an eventual financial gain. The future value of a piece of art is not predictable, therefore buy the art because you LIKE it. If it goes up in value so much the better. Keep this in mind, The only true measure of the value of an artist’s work is yesterday’s sales record, anything beyond that is speculation. Work with a dealer you can trust.
If you see a painting you like and it has a price tag that seems high you may say “that is quite an investment”. In this case “investment” takes on a whole different meaning. Is the painting affordable and are you willing to spend the money based on its desirability. At this point the purchase can be considered based on the many intrinsic values such as uniqueness, quality of artistry, size, shape and even color. If the painting meets these requirements and you like the piece your purchase could be considered a wise “investment”.
How do I select the right painting for me?
Selecting the “right” painting means finding something that works for you emotionally, financially and , yes to a certain extent, even decoratively. Tour own instincts should be your best guide toward making the right choice. The great thing is you don’t have to have an art background to know what you like. Given certain personal parameters a good dealer can help steer you in the direction you need to go.
How do I find out more about the artists?
For contemporary or living artists the W.T. Burger Co. provides a brief biography. To protect the artist’s privacy we do not divulge specific information about his/her locale but we are always willing to seek out any additional information desired.
Artists of older or antique art pieces may be listed in any number of lexicons or reference volumes. A bona-fide art dealer will help you in the search.
How do we find the artists that we represent?
We are in the art business full time; we are constantly seeking out new artists in our travels. With roots dating back to 1927, the W.T. Burger Co. maintains long-standing worldwide relationships with artists and dealers to keep abreast of emerging artistic talents.