In many branches of art—if not all—the audience’s perception of a piece is often undervalued, ignored, or even dismissed. I see art, particularly painting, much like football: there are countless incredibly talented players, but only a few make it to the big leagues, earn a fortune, and gain recognition. Some painters became famous only after their death, while others were lucky enough to be discovered during their careers.

Living off your art and living for art are two very different things. There is also a fine line between creating art on commission and simply doing what others ask of you. It all ties into the eternal question: how much would someone be willing to pay for an original piece? And even more: would you pay for an original painting?

I often wonder why so few people buy art, especially when many spend significant amounts on fleeting, less lasting, or soulless things. I’m not here to tell anyone how to spend their money, but I’m intrigued by the act itself: acquiring an ORIGINAL artwork—from a renowned or emerging artist—to have in one’s home, office, or even to give as a gift.

I believe painting is tainted by ignorance, snobbery, and a distorted perception of what it truly is. To me, owning a painting means possessing a piece of the artist’s emotion, soul, feelings, and spirit, captured on a canvas, a wall, or any other surface.

Recently, a friend purchased two of my paintings, and what moved me the most wasn’t the sale itself, but seeing how she hung them with pride, fully aware of where they came from, what they represented, and what I aimed to express. That, without a doubt, was the greatest price anyone could pay for my art: understanding it, valuing it, and making it part of their life.

C’est la vie, my friends!