Have you ever wandered through a commercial art gallery inspired by big, beautiful statement paintings?
But then you lean in real close to look at that itty-bitty price tag and yikes – retreat! Back off, scuttle away, don’t make eye contact with the gallerist. It’s far out of budget and you don’t want to talk about it.
This is me. I’m an artist, I love art, I deeply appreciate it… I can rarely afford it.
Unless it’s small. 
Most of my art collection is made up of small pieces: works on paper, plein air studies, small panels, sketchbook pages, square foot paintings. I collect pieces from master artists I learn from, local artists who I admire, and paintings that have a special connection to my life.
I love the magic of seeing the artist’s original brushstrokes, knowing that the little piece of canvas I collected had the artist’s utmost attention and care as they shaped a brand new world on the surface.
Do all artists offer small works?
No, some artists focus on producing big studio paintings. They may chose to offer fine art prints as a way of making their work more affordable rather than small works. Or they may not be too concerned about the affordability of their artwork based on their collectors and galleries. That’s okay.
From an artist’s perspective, producing small works can take a lot more time and effort per piece. Sure, a huge painting needs a lot more planning and materials. But small pieces mean that you have to do certain tasks over and over again to bring them to market. It can be simpler to sell 1 big painting for $5000 instead of 50 small paintings for $100. Think of the extra handling involved in photographing, listing, and shipping 50 small pieces!
My Study Sales
For me, offering small works and studies is a big part of how I make my art affordable. As a newer artist, painting many small pieces also gives me lots of practice. I learn more from painting 50 small paintings than 1 big piece. Even if it’s more work.
At different times of the year, I paint 8×10 studies to explore new ideas, techniques, and practice compositions. Some of these studies are really sweet little paintings. And some are just learning opportunities.
Either way, I like to offer my studies for sale on a sliding scale. It lets you chose a price that fits your budget and own something unique and handmade. Straight from my easel to your home!
Jump on my newsletter if you’re interested in upcoming study sales or small works. I offer my email list first chance to preview and collect my work.