Buying cheap paintings: what to look for?
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⏱️ 5-minute read
You want to buy an original painting, but your budget is limited. Good news: buying affordable paintings doesn't mean sacrificing quality or originality. You can even find hand-painted, unique works for under €50. But there are a few things to keep in mind. In this article, we list the most important tips.
1. Original vs. art print: know the difference
The biggest pitfall when buying affordable art is confusing original paintings with prints. A print is a reproduction – no matter how beautiful, it's not a unique work. An original painting is handmade, one-of-a-kind, and brings a completely different energy to a space.
- Does the description say "original" or "hand-painted"?
- Is it signed or does it come with a certificate of authenticity?
- Is the work unique (1 of 1)?
- Can you see the paint texture in the photos?
- Is the artist known and traceable?
2. Pay attention to the size
Affordable original paintings are often smaller in size – and that's precisely why they're affordable. Smaller works require less material and time, but are no less valuable because of it. They are perfect for:
- A gallery wall with multiple small works
- A desk or bookshelf
- A truly memorable gift
- Your first step as an art collector
3. Look at the artist, not just the work
When you buy affordable original art, you're not just buying a painting – you're buying a piece of someone's story. Look for an artist with a recognizable style, a consistent practice, and preferably an online presence where you can see more of their work. That instills confidence and provides context for your purchase.
Artist Jordy Koumans creates abstract works and color studies from Tilburg. His Affordable Art. collection offers original acrylic paintings for a maximum of €50 – not prints, but real hand-painted art.
4. Always ask for a certificate of authenticity
A serious artist will always provide a certificate of authenticity with an original painting. This document confirms the work is original, lists the materials used, and is signed by the artist. Without a certificate, an "original" is difficult to verify.
5. Consider shipping and packaging
An affordable painting can turn out to be expensive if shipping costs are high. Pay attention to:
- Does the seller offer free or affordable shipping?
- Is the work professionally packaged?
- Is there a return policy if the work arrives damaged?
At KOJO Art, every work is carefully packaged and shipped worldwide – with no surprises afterward.
6. Trust your gut feeling
Ultimately, buying art is an emotional decision. A work that moves you, that continues to draw you in, that matches the atmosphere you want to create – that's the right work. Price is secondary in this. A painting under €50 that makes you happy for years is worth more than an expensive work you no longer notice after a week.
— Jordy Koumans, KOJO Art
7. Where to buy affordable original paintings?
There are several places where you can buy affordable original art:
- Directly from the artist – often the fairest price, direct contact, and you know exactly what you're buying
- Art markets and open studios – you see the work in person and speak to the artist
- Online platforms – large selection, but pay close attention to whether they are truly originals
- Galleries with affordable art – sometimes galleries have an "affordable" section
Frequently asked questions about buying affordable paintings
What is an affordable painting?
There's no fixed definition, but in the art world, art under €500 is often considered "affordable." Original works under €50 are rare – but they exist, such as in the Affordable Art collection of KOJO Art.
Where can I buy an original painting for little money?
Directly from the artist is often the best option. At KOJO Art, you'll find hand-painted original works for a maximum of €50, shipped worldwide with a certificate of authenticity.
Is affordable art less valuable?
Not necessarily. Price is determined by factors such as size, the artist's reputation, and material costs – not solely by quality. A small color study by a talented artist can be just as valuable as a large work.
Can I buy affordable paintings online?
Yes, but pay attention to the description. Look for terms like "original," "hand-painted," "1 of 1," and always ask for a certificate of authenticity.
Are affordable paintings a good investment?
Original works by emerging artists can increase in value. But mainly buy art because it makes you happy – that's the best investment.
How much does an original painting cost on average?
That varies enormously: from €30 for a small work by an emerging artist to thousands of euros for established names. You'll most easily find affordable original paintings directly from the artist or through online platforms focusing on emerging artists.
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Discover the Affordable Art. collection by KOJO Art – original acrylic works for a maximum of €50, with worldwide shipping and a certificate of authenticity.
KOJO Art is the brand of artist Jordy Koumans from Tilburg. He creates abstract paintings, color studies, and affordable original works in acrylic and oil paint. His work is shipped worldwide and can be found via kojoart.com.
