How is a Painting Judged and Priced: Insights from Professional Art Evaluators

When considering the valuation of a painting, it can be an agonizing process. Deciding what a piece is worth often depends on a myriad of factors, from the artist's established reputation to the specific dimensions and materials used. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of how paintings are judged and priced, drawing on insights from professional art evaluators and experienced artists.

Factors Influencing Art Pricing

Art pricing is a complex issue that can be influenced by various factors beyond just the quality and desirability of the artwork itself. A good starting point is to understand how artists and galleries determine the price of a painting. For instance, in the American Southwest, a 16 x 20-inch stretched canvas oil painting by a well-established full-time professional artist typically retails for around $1500. In a gallery setting, the gallery absorbs half of the profit, while the artist retains the other half. This is a good benchmark to consider, but pricing can vary based on several key factors:

Size and Materials: Larger paintings and those using more luxurious materials command higher prices. Skill and Renown: The reputation and skill level of the artist significantly impact pricing. Well-known artists with a strong presence in the art community can charge more. Expert Framing: High-quality framing enhances the overall value and appearance of a painting, justifying additional cost. Popularity of Subject: Painting subjects that are particularly popular or have cultural significance can be more expensive.

The Riddle of Judging Paintings

While art valuation and pricing are often approached with a systematic methodology, the process can also feel random and even ridiculous at times. Art buyers often use unconventional metrics to judge a painting, similar to how they would assess flooring but in terms of square inches rather than square feet. For instance, the highly acclaimed Mona Lisa is actually a rather small painting, yet its value is immense due to its historical significance and cultural impact.

Sometimes, paintings are not judged by art critics or appraisals by professionals. Instead, they find their value in the hearts of art enthusiasts and collectors. A case in point is a childless couple in New York City, consisting of a librarian and a municipal worker, who amassed two significant art collections. They bought artwork by unknown or little-known artists inexpensively, collecting pieces that appealed to their personal tastes. When their apartments became full, they donated the artworks to museums and began anew, a testament to their unique eye for art.

Building Value Through Appraisals and Exposures

In other situations, paintings are subjected to professional evaluations and reviews by respected art critics. Such appraisals help to establish the value of a painting and can be crucial for gaining recognition. Artists who enter local competitions and secure acceptance into national and international exhibitions can build a reputation and raise the value of their artwork. Such achievements not only add credibility but also increase the desirability of their pieces in the eyes of collectors and galleries.

In conclusion, the process of judging and pricing a painting is multifaceted and can depend on a wide range of factors. Whether through professional appraisals, collector biases, or artist recognition, understanding these elements can help in making an informed decision about a painting's value.