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"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder"

Nowhere is this old adage more appropriate than in the world of fine art. A distinguishing feature that will attract one buyer to a particular work of art is just as likely to be the very thing that turns the next buyer away. To invest in art is to invest in an opinion of what constitutes beauty, which won't necessarily be the opinion of the masses, but certainly should be the opinion of the investor. Art, whether purchased as an investment or simply to brighten up a dull room, can only be fully appreciated if it is pleasing to the eyes of those who will be living with it every day.

An appreciation for, and love of quality artwork is a definite advantage for anyone wanting to invest in such works. Time spent in the pursuit of that perfect first, second or even twentieth purchase will ideally involve many hours perusing art publications, galleries and exhibitions, as well as studying the field, talking with artists and curators and generally becoming entrenched in the art world. If the thought of spending a good deal of your spare time surrounded by art and artists is not overly appealing, then investing in art may not be for you. If that same thought sends a quiver of anticipation through your body, you may well be the type of person who will have at least a small measure of success with your investments.

Investments of any kind carry their associated risks. Companies fall to bad management, real estate prices take a nosedive in times of economic hardship and we've all witnessed the fickleness of our world stock markets. Investing in art also carries an element of risk, but with its relatively small initial outlay in comparison to the potential for high returns, these risks are considerably less daunting than those inherent in the more traditional forms of investment.

The contemporary art market has boomed over the last decade. High quality art is more accessible to the general public today than it has ever been before. Where art galleries were once the domain of eccentric, arty types who spoke in strange tongues undecipherable to anyone outside their circle, they are now a source of invaluable information given willingly by friendly and helpful staff. What this means for the beginner art investor is increased opportunity to gain a well rounded education in the finer points of art before making that initial investment.

Artist magazines provide another great resource for the art investor. These are monthly or bimonthly

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