The Appeal of Expensive Art in a Digital Age

Artrsquo;s timeless allure and enduring value have made it a favorite among collectors, investors, and enthusiasts alike. Despite the proliferation of digital platforms offering free viewing of famous artworks, why do people still choose to invest in and adorn their spaces with expensive art pieces? In this article, we explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and discuss why physical art remains a more valuable possession than its digital counterparts.

Why Expensive Art Adds Value to Personal Spaces

For many, the pleasure derived from personalizing onersquo;s living or working environment with art extends beyond mere visual appeal. Art pieces can serve as unique identifiers of personal taste and individuality, making a space more personal and meaningful. Letrsquo;s delve into the situations where owning original art can provide a deeper sense of pride and joy over simply browsing through images online.

The Human Touch of Original Art

Original art pieces have a unique quality that no digital reproduction can match. A drawing or painting that has been created by a master artist, for example, carries with it the artistrsquo;s personal touch and emotional investment. This added layer of sentimentality can make a piece more meaningful and memorable. Consider a street artistrsquo;s drawing created specifically for you, hanging in your personal space. This item is not only a work of art but also a tangible connection to that moment and place, something that evokes emotions and memories.

More Than Just Visual Prolongation

Artrsquo;s value often lies in its permanence and durability. Unlike images on the internet, which can be lost or altered, an original piece of art remains a physical object that you can handle and interact with. This interaction can enhance the experience and make the art piece feel more intimate and personal. Additionally, the act of hanging a drawing or painting in a specific area can serve as a physical manifestation of your taste and choices, creating a sense of identity for that space.

The Role of Art as an Investment

Beyond personal enjoyment, art can also serve as a financial investment. Works by famous artists often appreciate in value over time, making them a potentially lucrative addition to onersquo;s portfolio. This is one of the primary reasons why high-net-worth individuals invest in art. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and rewards involved in this type of investment.

Long-term Appreciation and Security

While investing in art comes with risks, it can also offer stable, long-term returns. Unlike other volatile investments like stocks, artrsquo;s value tends to remain relatively stable over time. For example, the US government has taken legal action to seize a Picasso drawing that was acquired with misappropriated funds. This demonstrates the value of owning rare and valuable pieces of art, as their worth is often recognized and protected in legal disputes.

Examples of Art as an Investment

Consider the case of the governmentrsquo;s civil suit against Malaysian Jasmine Loo, who purchased a Picasso pencil-on-paper drawing for a significant sum of US$1.3 million. This suit highlights the fact that artworks by famous artists can indeed appreciate in value over time. The drawing known as ldquo;Trois Femmes Nues et Buste Drsquo;Hommerdquo; is now among assets seized by law enforcement, totaling at least RM93.2 million, linking back to the misuse of funds from the 1MDB sovereign wealth fund. Such examples illustrate the potential for art to be both a meaningful possession and a financially sound investment.

Conclusion

While the internet provides countless images of famous artworks, there is something to be said for owning and experiencing the real thing. Artrsquo;s unique qualities, combined with its potential as an investment, make it a cherished possession for many. From personalizing onersquo;s space to securing long-term financial benefits, the appeal of expensive art remains strong. Whether you are an art collector, investor, or simply a lover of beauty, the tangible and intangible values associated with original art cannot be underestimated.