Nova Montgomery never set out to be a collector: she simply fell in love with the quality of the Singer Featherweight Model 221 sewing machine. “There never has been another sewing machine with as perfect a stitch!” she shares. She started out using this sewing machine as a quilter, but after fixing the machine a few times, and reading everything she could find about the machine, she came to be familiar with its workings. When friends would have something go wrong with their machines, they would reach out to her to fix them. Pretty soon, this avid quilter spent most of her time fixing sewing machines for others. She took a leap and had a company develop a website for her growing business, and things really started to take off.
The collecting part came later – when an avid sewing machine collector from Casper, Wyoming reached out to her. He wanted to know about Nova’s collection, and she confessed she only had the machine she sewed on. He was surprised and let Nova know that she should start collecting sewing machines. With his encouragement, Nova began collecting, mostly with machines that she purchased through his connections with others. The first machine that Nova purchased for her collection is a 1934 Chicago World’s Fair badged machine, which is her favorite piece in the collection by far. “It’s very special to me. It was a special event in our country, and it’s a very special, unique machine.”
Nova also added to her collection by purchasing some machines from pickers who were selling them online. They refused to send her photos of the machines, but the price was very low, so Nova agreed to purchase them, thinking she could probably use the parts. She purchased two machines, and when they arrived, they turned out to be collector’s machines in perfect condition. The pickers didn’t know the value of what they had!
Overall, Nova owns 16 or 17 machines, and she has 11 of them on display in her sewing room. There is a high shelf in the room that was built for the purpose of displaying them, and they are all in chronological order. All of the machines in her collection are historically unique in some way. Some other notable items in her collection are a 1951 Singer with a badge to celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary. The badge reads, “A century of sewing.” She also owns a Blackside machine. These machines were produced in 1939 using an anodized process for the chrome pieces, since nickel and chrome were in short supply as the country was getting ready for WWII. She also has a 1939 Singer that has a crinkle finish.
Today, Nova is an avid collector and offers sewing machine repair services. She has also served on the faculty of the International Quilt Festival in Houston, Texas for over a decade. Her true passion is teaching people how to care for their sewing machines. At lectures, she often asks students if they drove there in a 70-year-old car or used a 70-year-old kitchen appliance to prepare breakfast that morning. “There aren’t many things in our households that function for so long, but these sewing machines do! I believe they will be sewing for generations if they are well cared for.”
John Grace’s interest in collecting bicycles started in 1983, when his father started collecting bikes. “My dad wanted to find a bike like the one he had as a kid, so we looked at bike shows, garage sales and old bike shops,” explains John. “My brother and I went with him, and we were exposed to a whole new world! There were so many interesting designs and mechanical innovations.” Today, both John and his brother own bike collections.
For his collection, John tends to focus on several brands that he really likes, as well as specific time periods. While his dad was focused on the 1940s and 1950s, John and his brother were fascinated with high wheelers and turn of the century bikes. He found these bikes to be very ridable – a plus, since he tends to actually ride the bikes he collects. The brothers often take part in various parades and events. “It opened us up to a whole new activity,” shares John. “I even met my wife through collecting.” John’s wife’s father is one of the founding members of the Wheelmen, a club for bicycles made prior to WWI. She participated in many events, but after she and John met, she got more involved in collecting.
John’s favorite piece in his collection of over 200 bikes is his 1889 Columbia Light Roadster High Wheeler. It has a 53” front wheel and is the bike he has ridden the most frequently. “I have completed about a dozen centuries on it. A century is when you ride 100 miles in a day.” The oldest bike in his collection is a 54” 1882 Columbia Expert, and the most recent is a Recumbent which he purchased in 2000. The first bike that John ever restored was an 1899 Columbia Chainless Bicycle, which he purchased from a shop in Pittsburgh.
When it comes to value, John has everything from a $10 bike to a $9,000 bike. Overall, bikes tend not to lose or gain significant value. “In a 20-year span, they’ve gone up, but from year to year there aren’t any significant changes,” explains John. He watches auctions often so that he can keep track of the value of his collection for insurance purposes. The most valuable bike John owns is actually his wife’s Star bicycle. It’s a high-wheel safety where the large wheel is in the back and the small wheel is in the front. This designed is to help prevent the rider from going over the handlebars.
John notes a few other unique bikes in his collection. He has a restored 1941 Elgin Twin Bar, which is a very special bike. It was only built for four years. It’s art deco in style and has a unique frame, with continuous tubes that loop from the headset to the rear wheel and then back to the headset to form the frame. This bike was sold by Sears right before World War II. “Sears bikes sold before the war were called Elgins, and after the war they were called J.C. Higgins,” shares John. He also has an 1890 Columbia Light Roadster Hard Tire Safety Bike and a 1908 Columbia Men’s and Ladies shaft drive with dual suspension and 2-speed rear hubs, which is a unique feature.
John and his wife Dorothy keep a handful of bikes at home in Michigan, but the bulk of their collection is displayed in a building located in a nearby town. Everything is laid out chronologically and then by brand. John likes things in chronological order so that he can walk people through the evolution of the bicycle through time.
Folk art is a broad art form that is difficult to define. Its primary purpose is to express the cultural identity of the artist. This differs from fine art, which is created primarily for aesthetic purposes.
Folk art has a rich history and comes in many forms and from many cultural backgrounds. Read on to learn more about folk art, include how to define it, how it differs from other art forms, and what famous artists and works of art are considered folk art.
What is Folk Art?
Other genres of art are more easily defined than folk art. Folk art is very different than traditional art. Folk art is art that is generally produced by artists that have no formal training. It is often produced by a tradesperson who has been apprenticed. The main purpose of traditional folk art is to express their cultural identity. Traditional rules such as perspective and proportion are less important than conveying this cultural identity.
Fine Art
Also known as “high art,” this type of art is the highest standard of artistic expression. This type of art is created for the sole purpose of being visually pleasing. Unlike “low art”, which is often designed for more practical reasons, this type of art is design for aesthetic purposes.
Outsider Art
Outsider art is created by artists who have little influence from the world of mainstream art, and instead follow their personal visions. These artists tend to have no formal training, and many of them are not aware of mainstream art, as they focus on what they personally like to create. They are also motivated differently than mainstream artists. They make art for themselves, to document life experiences or historical events.
Types of Folk Art
If you were to cover every type of folk art in existence, the list would be never ending. Folk art comes in many varieties and originates from a long list of countries and cultures. However, there are a few types that are the most well-known or popular. Read on for just a sampling of the most popular types of folk art.
Indian Folk Art
Indian folk art reflects India’s rich and diverse cultures, and there are over 50 types. Here are a few of the most well-known types.
Aipan Art: Aipan art originates from the state of Uttarakhand in Northern India. It includes Jain, Buddhist, and Hindu themes. This type of art often consists of geometric prints on paper cloth or walls. These are all designed for special occasions, ceremonies, and rituals.
Assamese Miniature Painting: Assamese paintings are usually painted on tulpap, agar leaves, and wooden plates which are typically between 1 and 24 inches long and between 8 and 12 inches wide. These miniature works of art originated from the Indiah state of Assam.
Bhojpuri Painting: These paintings date back to 1300 B.C. and have played an important role influencing art. They are found in Uttar Pradesh.
Mexican Folk Art
Mexican Folk art is very distinct and can easily be identified as Mexican. The many types of art found in Mexico are a reflection of the country’s indigenous cultures.
Alebrije folk art: This form of art is among the most well-known Mexican folk arts. This includes traditional wood carving crafts, wooden sculptures, and paper mache. These carvings often future fantastical, brightly colored creatures, and they can be found on the streets of Oaxaca.
Huichol folk art: This type of article is created by native Huichol people. They design heavy and complex pieces of jewelry made from thousands of brightly colored beads.
State of Mexico folk art: This type of art often depicts stories from the Bible and other tales in the form of colorful and elaborately decorated items.
Famous Folk Art Paintings
Here is a list of just a few of the most popular and well-known folk art paintings.
“Josiah Dean III and his wife Sarah Dean of Raynham, Massachusetts,” by Rufus Hathaway (oil on canvas)
“Witches Tearoom,” by Vestie Davis (oil on canvas board)
“Portrait of Lydia Luana” by Ruth Henshaw Bascom (pastel on paper)
“The Lincoln Children” by Susan Waters
“The Westwood Children” by Joshua Johnson
Well-Known Folk Artists Throughout History
Traditional folk art is often created by artists that have no formal training. Read on to learn more about a few popular folk artists throughout history.
Ruth Henshaw Bascom: In the late 18th century, Bascom lived in rural Massachusetts. She was a teacher who made portraits of friends and relatives in her spare time. These portraits were life size and made of pastel on paper. Her personal diaries indicate that she created over 1,400 portraits, but only 200 have been found and identified. She often gave her portraits as gifts. You can view some of her work in the American Folk Art Museum and the Worcester Art Museum.
Charlie Willeto: Charlie was the first Navajo artist known to create sculptures, primarily of animals. He started carving in the 1960s, which was only a few years before his death. He used his works to barter for food.
Elito Villaflor Circa: This Filipino painter is known for using human hair and bodily fluids in his paintings. He had no formal training; rather, he began drawing using charcoal from the kitchen stove at the age of eight. His works often incorporate Philippine mythology. His use of blood in his work is intended to symbolize life, love, and sacrifice.
Consuelo Gonzalez Amezcua: Born in Mexico, Amezcua immigrated to the United States in 1913. She created complex pen and ink drawings that include repetitive patterns of fine lines. She would use her art to showcase her interest in historical figures. She also was inspired by Mexican filigree jewelry. You can find examples of her work in the Smithsonian Museum of American Art’s collection.
Techniques & Processes used in Folk Art
Folk art can utilize a wide range of media. This includes wood, cloth, paper, clay, and metal. Often traditional materials such as paint are inaccessible for the artist and other mediums are used instead. This gives folk art a very unique appearance.
If you have a collection of any kind of art, you might want to consider art insurance. Insurance offers you peace of mind knowing that your precious collection is protected from the unexpected.
FAQs
What are the characteristics of folk art?
Folk art is designed primarily by artists that lack formal training. Its primary purpose is to be a reflection of its culture. Traditional rules of art, such as perspective and proportion, are often overlooked.
What is the difference between a fine artist and a folk artist?
A fine artist creates art that is primarily for the purpose of being aesthetically pleasing. A folk artist creates unique art that goes against traditional rules and is primarily a reflection of its cultural background. They are often self-taught artists that lack formal training.
Jeff Wandler’s interest in collecting, as with many other collectors, began in childhood. He grew up with parents who were collectors. “My father collected Winchester firearms, Hudson antique automobiles, and antique furniture. He always had antiques around.” Jeff caught the bug at an early age. “I felt like I was born with a desire to collect,” he shares. “As a kid I always took care of my toys, and as I got older, I started displaying model cars on shelves in my bedroom. My mom always told people to go check out my museum in my bedroom.”
As Jeff got older, he would dig through local dumps for things like bottles and coffee tins to display. By the time he was about 30 years old, he developed an interest in collecting petroliana – items that are related to gas stations. His first purchase for the collection was a visible gas pump that he restored.
Today, the collection includes old signage, globes, gas pumps, and more. There are also a lot of neon signs, such as store signs, café signs, gas signs, and oil signs. The neon signage was all salvaged from actual hotels and stores. Over 25 years of collecting, Jeff amassed so much that he ended up doing a large-scale museum of everything he had collected. “It became an avenue to keep me occupied!” explains Jeff.
While Jeff used to think of himself as a bit of a hoarder, he’s come to accept the fact that he is a collector. Says Jeff, “I remember reading an article about hoarding vs collecting. Collectors take care of their stuff and display it, while hoarders just accumulate. I always kept all my stuff very nice. I started to budget for it.” Jeff is also quite fortunate to have a wife that is also interested in collecting. “It’s a strong part of our marriage – we do it together and we both love doing it!” Jeff also notes that he tends to spend a bit more on collecting than his wife, but she doesn’t seem to mind!
A favorite item in the collection is a 1949 Hudson convertible that once belonged to Jeff’s dad. “He drove that home when I was ten years old, and we helped him tear it down to the frame. He spent 25 years restoring that car. It’s a family favorite that reminds us of him.”
Jeff acquired his collection for around $2 and $2.5 million, but he estimates that the value has gone way up since then. He has thousands of items in the collection. There are around 500 oil cans, 25 cars, 100 gas pumps, and 800 signs. There are also 200 Winchester guns from his father’s collection.
Jeff calls his museum of collectible items the Frontier Auto Museum, and the museum is located in Gillette, Wyoming. There is 15,000 square feet of museum space, and Jeff’s daughter runs a 5,000 square foot space where she deals antiques. “It’s like walking through 100 years of time!” explains Jeff. The museum is built like a town full of stores, and all items are on display as they would have originally been displayed. The museum is focused mainly on the 20s and 60s, but the entire industrial age is represented, from 1900 on. The museum makes visitors very emotional at times. Everything is authentic, and there is a great variety presented.
The United States is home to some of the most unique and exciting art galleries in the world! In this country you can find modern art, renaissance art, and everything in between! The art museums feature both incredible, all-encompassing exhibits and stunning architecture.
Read on to discover the variety of galleries that can be found in the United States – and learn a bit more about each of them!
National Gallery of Art – Washington, D.C.
This gallery is near the capitol building in Washington D.C., and it’s a popular art destination. There are two buildings: the East Building has a modern design and houses many modern works. The West Building is inspired by the Roman Pantheon and houses older works, such as those by Claude Monet.
This museum focuses on American and European art and includes photos, sculptures, paintings, and prints. Big names featured in this gallery include Johannes Vermeer, Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Jackson Pollock, Rembrandt, Roy Lichtenstein, Henri Matisse, Joan Miro, Marc Chagall, and Pablo Picasso.
The Frick Collection – New York City, N.Y.
Henry Clay Frick had a private collection filled with European paintings. Today, this collection includes major Renaissance works as well as many eighteenth- and nineteenth-century French paintings. This collection is housed in a historic mansion once lived in by Frick himself.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art – San Francisco, CA
This modern museum is situated among some other prestigious art museums. This 17,000 square foot museum was first opened in the 1960s and features videos, photos, paintings, sculptures, and light and neon installations. It includes a collection of post-1960 German art, pop art by Andy Warhol, and painted panels by Mehretu.
Austin Museum of Digital Art – Austin, TX
This hub featuring digital artwork can’t be visited in person – it’s only accessible online. Catch one of their digital showcases for a chance to enjoy live electronic music, graphics, music videos, and more.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum – Boston, MA
If your name is Isabella, you can visit this museum for free! They feature works by Degas, Raphael, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and more. The museum also plays host to concerts, lectures, and other exciting events.
Seattle Art Museum – Seattle, WA
This museum consists of 25,000 works spread across three locations. The eclectic collection features works by Native American artists and an African art collection. The first Thursday of every month you can get free admission.
Museum of Computer Art
This incredible digital museum was established in 1993. Virtually, you can view everything from 3-D rendered art, to animation, to enhanced photography. They accept submissions from digital artists.
Adobe Museum of Digital Media – the Internet
Another popular digital museum, they present digital works of art from some of the most talented digital artists out there. They offer a range of interesting digital exhibits.
Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art – New York City, NY
Comics and cartoons steal the spotlight in this unique museum! They feature a variety of popular comic characters, such as Batman, and they have a very affordable admission rate.
Booth Western Art Museum – Cartersville, GA
This museum is dedicated to Western Art of the 20th and 21st century. They feature contemporary Western Art, as well as signed presidential letters from each president.
New York Museum of Modern Art – New York City, NY
This museum is one of the best when it comes to contemporary art. Their collection includes Starry Night by Van Gogh, Water Lilies by Monet, and Les Demoiselles d’Avignon by Picasso. There’s also Campbell’s Soup Cans by Warhol and The Persistence of Memory by Dali. This museum is also full of fashion, film, and photography.
The Andy Warhol Museum – Pittsburgh, PA
As the name suggests, this is an entire museum dedicated to the pop art of Andy Warhol, who is originally from Pittsburgh. Here you’ll find photographs, films, sculptures, and sketches that are either by or about Warhol.
Pulitzer Arts Foundation – St. Louis, MO
The Pulitzer Arts Foundation is as known for its stunning architecture by Tadao Ando as it is for the art housed inside. The foundation directors prefer not to refer to this as a museum, which is why it is titled this way.
Shelburne Museum – Shelburne, VT
This lesser known museum houses some of the most unique art around. This includes folk art, patterned quilts, impressionist paintings, and toy dolls. This is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an experience that is a little different from your typical museum.
Art Institute of Chicago – Chicago, IL
This museum is associated with the school of the same name. It houses a collection of beautiful impressionist and post-impressionist art. It’s one of the largest art museums in the country, and it’s home to water-lily paintings from Monet, works by Renoir, and furniture by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Museum of Fine Arts Boston – Boston, MA
This older art museum is among the best in the country, housing over 50,000 works of art. This includes Korean art, Egyptian artifacts, and a huge John Singer Sargent collection. You can find works by various indigenous cultures in North, Central, and South America, as well as contemporary American artists such as Joan Mitchell, Edward Hopper, and Georgia O’Keefe. The Art of the Americas exhibit is quite popular and beloved.
Nelson-Atkins Museum – Kansas City, MO
This free museum houses over 30,000 art pieces and features stunning architecture. They have a Shuttlecocks installation, and a collection of American Indian Art.
Philadelphia Museum of Art – Philadelphia, PA
The most famous feature of this museum are its front steps, which are known for their appearance in the Rocky film franchise. The steps now feature a statue of Rocky Balboa. A wide variety of art is featured at this museum, including works by Van Gogh and Thomas Eakins.
Whitney Museum of American Art – New York City, NY
This building features a futuristic architecture style by Renzo Piano. The building is home to over 23,000 pieces of art, including works by Andy Warhol, Richard Avedon, Jean-Michel Basquait, and Alexander Calder.
Los Angeles Center for Digital Art – Los Angeles, CA
These art museum is known for being one of the first to feature digital art. This museum features so much art that they recently had to move into a larger building.
The J. Paul Getty Museum – Los Angeles, CA
This art museum features two separate locations. The two buildings are the Getty Center, located in Brentwood, and the Getty Villa, located in Pacific Palisades. The Getty Center features Western art that goes back to the Middle Ages, while the Getty Villa hosts art from ancient Greece and Rome.
Brooklyn Museum – New York City, NY
One of the oldest art museums in the United States, this museum contains 1.5 million works, making it nearly impossible to see the entire thing. The art spans many cultures and time periods, and is organized well so that visitors can enjoy the various exhibits.
National Museum of African Art – Washington, D.C.
This small museum located near the National Gallery of Art in D.C. features art that offers a glimpse of many African cultures.
Detroit Institute of the Arts – Detroit, MI
Known as the “temple of art,” this museum features works from nearly every era and from all over the world. It features 100 galleries, a lecture hall, an auditorium, a conversation lab, and a reference library.
Cleveland Museum of Art – Cleveland, OH
This free museum is renown for its collection of Egyptian art and Asian art that spans many mediums. They often plan a variety of events, programs, and festivals for the public to enjoy.
The Field Museum – Chicago, IL
Rather than being an art museum, The Field Museum is considered more of a history museum. It was originally created to house biological and anthropological collections from a single expedition. Here you’ll find the Grainger Hall of Gems, a Tyrannosaurus Rex, and a planetary exhibition.
Morris Museum of Art – Augusta, GA
The Morris Museum is one of the first collections of art from the American South. It is a small museum, but its collection is one of the best of its kind. Art ranges from the Civil War period to modern works. Featured works include The Infantryman by William Gaul, Southern Landscape by Benny Andrews, and Hoover and the Flood by John Steuart Curry.
Museum of Art, Rhode Island School of Design – Providence, RI
This highly-regarded museum is connected to a school of the same name. They are dedicated to helping visitors understand the cultures highlighted in their collection. The school and museum often host concerts, lectures, and community programs for those interested.
Miami Museum of Contemporary Art – Miami, FL
Opened in 1996, this museum features a wide variety of contemporary art. The museum hosts a variety of events that are appealing to young people, such as battles of the bands, jazz concerts, and lectures.
The Mingei International Museum – San Diego, CA
Located in a beautiful park, this museum boasts six galleries which feature a variety of art from all over the world. Their works include paintings, pottery, sculptures, and multimedia art.
Metropolitan Museum of Art – New York City, NY
Located by Central Park, the Met is the largest museum in the country. A wide variety of art is featured, with sections that include the American Wing, Egyptian Art, Greek and Roman Art, Medieval Art, Arms and Armor, Arts of Africa, Oceana, the Americas, Modern and Contemporary Art, European paintings and sculptures, Asian art, photography, drawings and prints, and musical instruments.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art – Los Angeles, CA
Also known as LACMA, this museum is comprised of many buildings. They are known for Islamic artifacts, modern artworks, European impressionist paintings, Korean art, Japanese art, Greek art, Mexican art, fashion, design, and jewelry.
Getty Center – Los Angeles, CA
This art museum features stunning views of Los Angeles from the Santa Monica mountains. Inside you’ll find a wide variety of art, including historic manuscripts, Renaissance paintings, Etruscan statues, Baroque sculptures, American photography, and more.
Smithsonian American Art Museum – Washington, D.C.
This art museum boasts one of the largest collections in the country, featuring the works of over 7,000 artists. Here you’ll find New Deal art, Gilded Age works, American impressionist paintings, contemporary crafts, modern folk art, African American art, Latino art, realist art, western expansion art, and photography.
Walker Art Center – Minneapolis, MN
This art museum hosts a collection of modern and contemporary pieces created by both European and American artists. You’ll discover photographs, paintings, and sculptures. The Walker Art Center also houses Hahn/Cock, one of two blue cockerels created by German artist Katerina Fritsch.
High Museum of Art – Atlanta, GA
A group of buildings comprise this art museum, which hosts a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Here you’ll find artists like John Singer Sargent, Mary Cassatt, Harriet Hosmer, Henry Ossawa Tanner, Frederick Kensett, John Singleton Copley, Edmonia Lewis, and more.
Milwaukee Art Museum – Milwaukee, WI
This art museum features three buildings whose architecture is breathtaking. Over 30,000 works are on display by artists such as Joan Miro, Gustave Caillebotte, and Claude Monet, a vast pottery collection, and numerous galleries of Folk and Outsider American Art. You’ll also find a sizable collection of art by Georgia O’Keefe.
Baltimore Museum of Art – Baltimore, MD
This art museum plays host to over 95,000 works of art. They have a huge collection of pieces by Andy Warhol, as well as works by Matisse, Cezanne, and Picasso. They have a great collection of Asian art, African art, and European sculptures.
Denver Art Museum – Denver, CO
The Denver Art Museum takes up two separate facilities. The art displayed covers a huge timespan, from the pre-Columbian days to more contemporary art. You’ll find artwork by Winslow Homer and Vincent Van Gogh. You’ll also find textile art, African art, fashion, and more.
The Museum of Fine Arts – Houston, TX
This art museum is comprised of a pair of buildings and features a beautiful sculpture garden, and over 64,000 works of art on display. The museum features contemporary art, photography, mobiles, and mixed media.
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FAQs
What city in the US has the best art museums?
You can find beautiful art museums all across the country, in cities that include Los Angeles, New York, Houston, Denver, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and more.
What’s the biggest art museum in the US?
The largest art museum in the country is the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
What is the most prestigious art gallery in the world?
The Louvre, located in Paris, France, is widely considered the most prestigious art gallery in the world.
Collecting artwork, such as oil paintings, sculptures, and other types of fine art, can be a wonderful pastime. If you love art, it can be a great hobby to surround yourself with things that you find beautiful. If you have an art collection, you may already realize that it’s important to take proper care of your artwork – whether you are hanging it, storing it, or transporting it to a new location.
Fortunately, we’ve created a guide to protecting your artwork in a variety of circumstances. Read on for our best tips on caring for your precious art!
Basic Artwork Care & Maintenance
If you have a fine art collection, it’s important that you care for, store, and display it properly. Damage can be caused by touching your work without gloves, hanging your art incorrectly, or any extremes in temperature. Read on for tips on how to properly care for your artwork to keep it in tip top condition!
Use white gloves while handling art
Even if your hands appear clean, you probably have oils on your hands that could potentially get on the painting and cause damage. It’s a best practice to wear a pair of lightweight gloves when handling artwork.
Move artwork correctly
When moving artwork to a new location, be sure to carry both sides of the frame so that the weight is evenly distributed. Always lean a canvas against a flat surface, as anything else might cause stretching.
Hang art properly
When hanging fine art, it’s important to consider the size and weight of the artwork, as well as the sturdiness of the wall itself. You’ll want to make sure that the wall is strong enough to hold the art.
The best setup is to mount two eye hooks on a frame and connect them with a sturdy wire. This will allow you to straighten the painting once hanging on the wall, without having to worry about perfectly placing the nail or screw. Heavier works should be mounted into the studs of the wall, with multiple anchor points for extra support.
It’s also important to hang artwork out of the reach of children and pets.
Temperature and Humidity
For its protection, keep artwork away from any extremes in temperature. The temperature is recommended to stay between 69 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Extremes in temperature, as well as moisture and humidity, can cause damage.
Keep your artwork away from direct sunlight, and even from some higher wattage ceiling lights, as this can cause damage and fading. Keep your work away from any cooling or heating units.
Cleaning Art Collection
It’s important that you regularly clean your collection of art – and it’s especially important that you clean it properly! Cleaning the wrong way can cause permanent damage to the art. Read on for tips on how to properly clean your works of art to maintain them for years to come.
Dust regularly
Paintings should be lightly dusted a few times annually. Take the painting off the wall before dusting and lean it against the wall – this will ensure that the painting doesn’t fall while you are dusting.
Use a dry cloth or a clean and soft painter’s brush to dust your paintings. Avoid using feather dusters. While dusting, check the work for signs of deterioration. If you see signs of flaking or chipping paint, don’t dust the artwork. As an extra precaution, be sure to wear gloves while you are dusting the work. You don’t want any oil or dirt from your hands to cause damage.
Check for dampness
Artwork done on paper is most likely to become damp. If the work is made of canvas, the signs of dampness will show up first on the back of the canvas. You may find discoloration or brown marks. You can have the art professionally restored to make it last.
Never use chemicals
Many cleaning products are abrasive, and even water can cause damage to your fine art. Stick to cleaning using a soft brush. If the painting is expensive or you’re trying to avoid damage, think about having it cleaned professionally.
Storage of Paintings and Other Artworks
If you are packing your artwork to be placed in a storage space, you’ll want to wrap and store it carefully to avoid any damage during storage. Bubble wrap is a great tool to use, as it keeps the art clean and also prevents damage. Store your bubble wrapped art pieces in well-fitted boxes. If the box is too large, consider cutting it down to size – you don’t want there to be too much extra space for the painting to move around.
For framed pieces, wrap them in bubble wrap and seal them with packing tape. Pad the front and back of the art with cardboard for extra protection. For unframed pieces, you may want to use a sheet of silicone release paper to cover the canvas before sealing it with packing tape (be sure that the tape doesn’t touch the canvas). Wrap this in bubble wrap and use hardboard to cover the front and back of the canvas.
Finally, don’t forget to consider where you store your paintings. Avoid putting them in places that are damp or that could become damp (such as a basement area). Be sure to keep them in the proper temperature range. You may want to consider a climate controlled storage unit if you have a large quantity of art that you are storing.
The Right Way to Pack Paintings for Shipping
If you are preparing to ship your paintings, it’s important that you pack them properly! Here are some tips for how to do this to avoid causing any damage.
Minimize human contact: You’ll want to start by minimizing human contact with the painting in all settings, including inside your home, in storage, or inside of the moving truck. This can be done by creating a barrier between you and the painting while packing it.
Wrap in plastic: Use a solid sheet of durable plastic to wrap up your paintings. This will help keep them clean and protect them while moving them.
Seal with styrofoam: Pack your carefully wrapped painting in a custom-sized styrofoam box to keep it safe. This will prevent the artwork from moving around during the move, and will help prevent damage.
Place the painting in a tight-fitting cardboard box: After sealing with styrofoam, place the painting in a snug-fitting cardboard box. Find a box that is the perfect size to store your painting. If you can’t find one in the correct size, cut a larger box down to size with a box cutter.
Pack with dense packing material: Fill up any empty space in the box with a dense packing material, such as packing peanuts. This will keep the painting from moving around while it’s being transported. Once everything fits snugly, seal the entire box shut with packing tape.
Safe Transport of Paintings and Artworks
Once you’ve packed your artwork appropriately, it’s time for it to be sent to its new location. Here are some tips for ensuring that it arrives safely.
Be careful when driving: If you are driving the painting yourself, be sure to practice safe driving. Take turns slowly and don’t stop suddenly. You don’t want your painting shifting around before it arrives at its final destination.
Select a reliable carrier: If you are using a professional shipping company, such as FedEx, UPS, or USPS, be sure to select a reliable carrier. You can check their pricing online to compare their rates and find out what you will need to pay for shipping.
Pack the painting vertically: Make sure that your painting is upright during transport. If it lies flat, something could fall onto the painting and cause damage.
Cushion your artwork with other objects: Use other objects, such as a blanket or a pillow, to cushion the work and prevent it from sliding around.
Get insurance: The truth is, there’s no way to control every factor when it comes to shipping your painting – especially if you are trusting another service for the shipping. Fortunately, you can purchase insurance for your art pieces to ensure that you are covered in the event of an accident.
Protect Your Art Investment
Read on for tips on how to project your art investment.
Keep the Bill of Sale
When purchasing artwork, you should always receive a bill of sale. Keep this bill and store it away for your records.
Ensure the Type of Artwork is stated in the Letter of Authenticity
It’s also important that you receive a letter of authenticity when you purchase your artwork, especially if the piece is limited edition. You should keep this letter with the bill of sale and store it away for your records.
Keep all artwork documentation
Keep the bill of sale, the letter of authenticity, and any other supporting documentation that comes with your artwork. Store this away in a safe place where you can easily access it if you need to.
Attach the artist’s information at the back of the artwork
It’s important to remember who the artist was that created the work of art. Keep information, such as their biography, the date the painting was made, and any other interesting details and attach it to the back of the artwork. This is good information for you to have, and should the artwork ever change hands, it ensures that the new owner has information about the artist.
Get Artwork Insurance
Finally, one of the most important ways you can protect your artwork is to get art insurance. This will ensure that you are protected from any unexpected events. Get an art insurance quote today to start protecting your collection now!
FAQs
How Do You Prevent Mold on Paintings in Storage?
To prevent mold on paintings in storage, keep them away from damp areas or areas that could become damp, such as a basement. Store in a dry and temperature-controlled space.
Can You Store Paintings in a Storage Unit?
You can store paintings in a storage unit, but you may want to opt for a climate-controlled storage unit. This will ensure that your art stays in the right temperature range.
How Do You Protect Art from Sunlight?
It’s important to protect your art by keeping it out of direct sunlight. Place your art away from windows – and even away from especially bright interior lighting.
For Tom Vencill, his interest in comics began in the mid-70s, when he was about 7 or 8 years old. He and a friend were very interested in toys called Micronauts, and there was a Marvel comic book series related to them. Pretty soon, his interest in comic books grew, and he started getting into other Marvel superheroes, such as X-Men, Hulk, Thor, Fantastic Four, the Avengers, and Daredevil.
Today, Tom’s collection is comprised mainly of Silver and Bronze Age Marvel comics from the 60s and 70s. He isn’t as interested in modern storylines, as he finds the older ones more appealing. “Collecting fit my personality,” shares Tom, who started collecting items such as stamps and coins from a young age. “I enjoy getting complete runs of my favorite titles and filling in the missing holes in the stories.”
Tom has complete runs of several key Marvel titles through the 60s and 70s, such as Fantastic Four, X-Men, and Daredevil. He also owns many other key issues that are popular with Marvel comics fans. His favorite comic is X-Men #1, which he obtained from a friend when he was about 9 years old. “I pestered him to no end to get that!” shares Tom. “I bought it for $60 and it’s worth about $7,000 now.”
Tom’s core collection is about 2,500 books although 125 or so of the professionally graded key issues make up about 70% of the collection value. Many of the comics that Tom has purchased have risen in their value. In 2003, he bought X-Men #4 for about $400, and today it’s going for $5,000. In 2009, he purchased Fantastic Four #1 for $1,600 and it’s now worth $15,000. In 2011, he purchased Fantastic Four #52, which contains the first appearance of the Black Panther, for $100. Today it’s selling for $2,300. “I was fortunate to get into a collecting hobby related to pop culture as the value of my collection has benefitted greatly from the superhero movies of the past 15 years.”
In addition to his Marvel superhero collection, Tom also has a subset of comics dedicated to horror stories and monsters, which interested him at a young age. This includes full runs of the Marvel titles Frankenstein, Tomb of Dracula, Man-Thing and Werewolf by Night, which were popular in the 70s after the Comics Code Authority lifted restrictions on monster themes in 1971. “Monsters always fascinated me so those fit right in!”
Tom’s collection is stored in a cedar closet in his home, with some of the most valuable books kept in a safe deposit box. Every issue is bagged and boarded and stored in comic boxes organized by title and issue number and he keeps a spreadsheet that has each issue noted with condition and estimated value.
Collecting art can be an exciting – and lucrative – hobby. You might collect for fun, to keep a record of history, or to support the arts. There is also a wide variety of genres of art that you could be interested in – from impressionism to realism, from traditional to modern!
Perhaps you have developed an interest and would like to start collecting art. You may have a lot of questions. How do I get started? What type of art should I collect? Is it possible to turn an art collection into an investment? How do I care for the art that I collect?
To answer your questions, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide for the novice collector. Read on for our tips and tricks for collecting art!
Why Start an Art Collection?
There are many reasons for starting an art collection. You may be looking for an alternative investment that will pay off down the road. You may be looking for a way to provide a record of history or you may simply be interested in art and looking for a way to support that passion.
You may think that collecting art is only for those with a lot of money to invest, but this is not necessarily true. An art collection can come in many sizes and at many price points. If you’re working on a budget, you can certainly find art that fits within the spectrum of what you can afford.
Where To Collect Art?
If you are looking to start an art collection, there are a variety of places where you can look for art to purchase. This includes galleries, art fairs, studios, and browsing online. Read on to learn more about each of these places where you can buy art.
Check Art Galleries Near You
Art galleries are a great way to discover new works and add to your art collection. Here you will find access to a wide variety of art from various emerging artists. Take the time to ask questions and build connections with others who are more knowledgeable than you. It’s also important to learn about the artist, so don’t shy away from reading their bio and discovering more about their work. Discover the best art galleries in the US to find new places where you can acquire art.
Looking Out for Art Fairs
Similar to art galleries, you can also find new art at fairs. This can be a great way to add to your collection and discover emerging artists. Check out the best art fairs for artists and find new works of art just waiting to be added to your collection.
Visit Artist Studios
A great way to add to your art collection is to visit artist studios. Artists will often allow gallery directors and collectors to visit their studio. If you discover a new artist that you love and they don’t have any upcoming art shows, ask them if you can visit their studio. They are very likely to oblige.
Buying Fine Art Online
Buying art online is a great way to add to your art collection. Check out reputable websites such as The Artling or Heritage Auctions. Enjoy browsing through a variety of art works, discovering new artists, and learning about each piece from the comfort of your home.
What Kind of Art Should I Purchase?
You might be wondering what types of collectible art you should purchase. There are a variety of mediums and types of work that the collector can fall in love with. It really all depends on what type of art holds your interest. Here are a few of the most common things that you will find in an art collection.
Paintings
Paintings come primarily in oil and acrylic, and they are the most popular type of art to collect. Paintings are typically on canvas. You may fall in love with more traditional paintings or abstract works of art. You could fall in love with art from a variety of time periods, from impressionism to modern works.
Photography & Prints
Photography and prints can be a great way to collect art for those that don’t have as much disposable income. They tend to be less expensive than purchasing an original oil painting or sculpture.
Sculptures
Sculptures are another popular art form, and they take up a lot more display space than other types of art. If you find yourself drawn to sculptures, they may be a great thing to add to your art collection. Just be sure that you have the display space for them before you start buying!
Quick Tips for First-Time Art Collectors
If you are a first-time art collector, you may be wondering how to start collecting art. Below, we’ve provided a complete guide to getting started.
Find art that you gravitate towards
The first step in building an art collection is simply determining what type of art you are drawn to. The art world has a wide variety of art forms that you could be interested in. Are you interested in fine art or folk art? Do you prefer impressionism or realism? Do you prefer traditional art or modern art? There are so many genres and styles to choose from, and discovering what you like can be an exciting process.
Set a budget
Setting a budget is key, as it will help you determine how much money you can invest into your art collection. The best method is to start small and gradually increase your budget as you begin to learn more about collecting art. If you’re working with a small budget, a good place to start is buying photography or prints, as original art and paintings tend to cost a bit more.
Define your goals
Determine what goals you have for collecting art. What style of art are you looking to acquire? How much art do you want to add to your collection? Do you want to focus on a specific niche, or obtain a variety of works? A good goal is to purchase items that you genuinely enjoy and that bring you happiness when you look at them.
Consider your home’s interior design
This is an important consideration – how much art can you display in your home? Do you have ample wall space for a collection of oil paintings? Or will your beautiful pieces need to go into storage? Be sure that you don’t acquire more art that you can display in your home unless you’re willing to put some in storage.
Research
Do your research and learn as much about the art world as you can – especially about the specific type of art you are interested in. This will help inform your decisions and allow you to make wise purchases.
Taking Care of the Artwork you Purchased
Once you start collecting art, you’ll want to invest some time into artwork protection. Ensure that you hang your artwork properly so that it doesn’t fall. Be sure to dust your art several times a year with a soft brush or dry cloth. Finally, be sure that you invest in art insurance to cover you in case of the unexpected.
Build Networks in the Art World
A great way to learn more about art – and even to discover new artists – is to build connections with people in the art world. Attend art shows, visit galleries, and connect with artists and visit their studios. It’s important that you know people in the art world as they can help you learn more about collecting art and broaden your knowledge of both established and emerging artists.
FAQs
How do I get into collecting art?
Start by conducting some research of the art world. You can do online research, and you can also visit art galleries, art fairs, or artist studios. Build connections with others in the field and learn as much as you can. Determine what you like and start collecting art that you are interested in. Set a budget and determine what you can afford – you may want to start with photography or prints if you have a limited budget.
Is collecting art profitable?
Collecting art can be profitable, but it’s important to know what you are doing. Be sure to get to know the art market and determine which types of art are likely to increase in value. Get to know artists and build connections with others in the industry. Check out online auction sites and see what various pieces are selling for. It’s important to educate yourself!
How do you collect fine art?
Start by creating a budget to determine how much you are able to spend on art. Then determine a genre or type of art you would like to focus on – pick something that you are especially passionate about! Then, start browsing galleries, fairs, and online auction sites for art that you can add to your collection. Once you have a collection going, be sure to learn the proper techniques for taking care of your artwork.
Vintage comic books, also known as golden age or silver age comics, are a popular collectible item. These are in high demand among collectors, and since they are older they are also quite rare. The most valuable books from this time period often feature the first appearance of many beloved comic characters, such as Superman, Batman, Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Wonder Woman, and more. Many of these books were published by well-known comic publishers such as action comics, Marvel, DC, and more.
We’re diving into vintage comics and talking about why you should get them graded and how to sell them. We’re also sharing some of the most rare and valuable vintage comic books of all time.
Grading a Vintage Comic Book
Comic grading companies typically grade comics on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being poor conditiona and 10 being gem mint. Graders will examine the printing, the binding, the colors, and whether or not any fading has occurred in order to issue a score. Graded comic books sell better because their condition has been verified by a third party.
What is Considered Vintage?
Vintage comics books are generally considered those published before the 1970s, with most collectors being interested in books that were published between the 1930s to the mid-1970s. When examining a vintage book, check the cover price. A vintage book will have 10c, 12c, 15c, 20c, or 25c on the cover.
Comics Throughout History
Vintage comic books are typically fall into the comic book ages of golden age or silver age comics. Golden age comics are from 1938-1956, while silver age comics are from 1956-1970. Victorian age comics are those that fall between 1842–1897, platinum age is 1897–1938, bronze age is 1970–1985, and modern age is 1985 – present.
How Do I Buy or Sell Vintage Comic Books at an Auction?
Before selling your comics, it’s important to get them graded, especially if they are high-value comics. Graded books tend to sell better than ungraded ones. Then, decide where you want to sell your book. You could select a brick and mortar auction house, but there are also plenty of online auction houses where you can sell. Sell your most valuable comic books on reputable sites such as Heritage Auction. Your less expensive books can be sold on sites such as eBay.
12 Rare and Highly Valuable Comics
There are some comics that are known for being especially valuable. They are often the first edition of a comic, or they feature the first appearance of a beloved comic character. Here are twelve rare comic books that are highly coveted and worth big bucks.
Action Comics #1 – Worth about $3.2 million
There are fewer than 100 of this comic book still in existence, and they originally sold for about 10 cents a copy. This issue, published in 1938, was the first introduction of Superman.
Detective Comics #27 – Worth about $2.1 million
In 1939, just one year after Superman was introduced, Batman was introduced in Detective Comics #27. There are less than 200 of this book still in existence, making it a rare and in demand piece for serious comic book collectors.
Marvel Comics #1 – Worth about $1.2 million
This issue contains the first appearance of Sub-Mariner and the Human Torch. This comic is one of the rarest in the world, with only 26 of them in their original condition.
Amazing Fantasy #15 – Worth about $1.1 million
This 1960s comic contains the first appearance of Spider-Man. It sold so well that Spider-Man’s story was continued. This comic is in very high demand among comic book collectors.
All-Star Comics #8 – Worth about $936,000
This 1941 comic introduced the world to Wonder Woman. It’s hard to find a copy of this comic in good condition.
Batman #1 – Worth about $567,000
In 1940, the popular Batman character was given his own comic book. This first issue, which is in high demand today, featured key characters such as the Joker and Catwoman.
Superman #1 – Worth about $507,000
Superman was given his own series in 1939, and this original book is sought after by collectors. There are fewer than 200 in existence.
X-Men #1 – Worth about $492,000
This 1963 comic book has a white cover and it hard to find in good condition. It marks the introduction of the X-Men.
Flash Comics #1 – Worth about $450,000
In 1940, Flash Comics #1 introduced a new superhero called the Flash. This particular comic is popular with collectors.
Sensation Comics #1 – Worth about $399,000
This 1942 comic is the first appearance of the popular heroine, Wonder Woman. They are rare to find in good condition.
Pep Comics #22 – Worth about $375,000
This 1941 comic introduced the classic character, Archie. It’s hard to find one of these in good condition.
The Incredible Hulk #1 – Worth about $375,000
It’s hard to find an edition of this comic in good condition, but in and of itself, it isn’t especially rare. This book features a beloved character, The Incredible Hulk.
Tales of Suspense #39 – Worth about $350,000
This comic book from 1959 features the first appearance of Iron Man.
Insure Your Vintage Comic Books
If you have a collection of comic books, it’s important to have the right insurance coverage to protect them in the event of the unexpected. Find the best comic book insurance and give yourself the gift of peace of mind.
Adam Goldstein is a buyer and seller of high-end sports cards who often has to ship cards using services such as UPS, USPS, or FedEx. In the last two years, he has shipped over 200 packages. “The insurance provided by these shipping services is awful!” shares Adam. “It’s impossible to get paid out. You literally could have an eBay transaction proving the value of the item, and you still don’t get paid – it’s a scam!”
A buddy of Adam’s recommended that he use Collectibles Insurance Services for his business – and Adam is so glad that he did! “I was in a situation where I was very grateful to have Collectibles Insurance!” About three or four months ago, Adam shipped $10,000 worth of sports cards that belonged to a client to PSA for grading, and PSA never received the shipment. It was sent to the wrong post office, and a random person signed for the package. Just like that, $10,000 was gone, and Adam knew that USPS wasn’t going to help him.
Fortunately for Adam, Collectibles Insurance Services was there to provide support! Within three weeks, Adam was paid for the full value of the package. “They really bailed me out of the situation that could have put me out of business. I would have had to take $10,000 out of my business to pay it out, because my reputation would have been ruined otherwise. I was grateful to Collectibles for helping me walk through this. I ship everything fully insured by Collectibles, and I will be a customer for life!”
Is your collection covered? We’ve got your back! Visit our Get a Quote page to get started.
