For art's sake: Delhi’s art investments

Thinking of investing in art can be a scary prospect for many as it conjures up images of auctions, and the fashionable elite. But fear not, just because one may not “fit” the picture, there’s no reason why one can’t invest in it. In fact, art investment is one of the best parallel choices where investment is concerned, reason being that it yields higher returns. Plus, it’s a great way to diversify your portfolio.

But before you plunge in headlong, here are a couple of tips:

· Know your artist.

· Visit art galleries and auction houses to get a feel.

· Value of the art.

· Buy art that you like.

· Provenance i.e. the origin of the art, where it’s come from.

· The condition of the artwork (artist’s signature, in general good condition)

Gallerie Alternatives and Copal Art Gallery are established galleries in the city that one could check out. Another alternative would be to hire consultants to help build a portfolio. Renu Rana, a sculptor, art critic and consultant is known to promote new talent. Other consultants include Tripat Kalra who runs her own Gallery Navya, and Sunaina Anand is the lady behind Art Alive.

Understanding and appreciating art comes with age, but most often than not, the value of good art rarely plummets.

So, here’s to you becoming an art aficionado!