Post #264033 by sirginn on Thu, Nov 2, 2006 10:02 AM

As stated above, buy art because you love it...We have amassed a large art collection over the years including 4 Shag originals among others. These were all purchased for love of the art, we have no plans of ever selling any of our peices. The fact that lowbrow/tiki art is desirable right now and that they have appreciated so much is just a bonus. If you are looking for an investment, there are easier ways to get rich.

$5 - 20 grand is a lot of money for a painting, but if you can afford it and enjoy it everyday, it works out to less than a buck a day over a 20 or 30 year period. If you can afford it go for it.

Shag has continued to grow in popularity, he has exhibited all over the world and there have been numerous books released featuring his artwork. He continues to sell out his gallery shows. His art will likely always hold value, but whether it continues on the current trend, who can say.

If you are looking to purchase an original, I recommend you contact the gallerys at which he shows, (he has regular shows at La luz, outre, mmodern....) ask to be placed on the wait list for originals (often a 2 year wait), the gallery curators may also know collectors who may be willing to sell there originals and will broker the deal.

I passed up numerous opportunities to purchase originals by Shag and other artists, waiting for the "right one". Again, buy one you love, not just any painting because it is a "Shag".

Ebay also frequently has originals for sale, make sure you get the history of the painting to verify authenticity before forking over the dough.

Bottom line is if you are looking to buy a Shag, you might find a seller on e-bay and get a deal for around 5 grand. For the size you are looking for in a gallery you are looking at 8 grand or higher, larger paintnigs now approach 20 grand.

And the days of commissioning from Shag are long gone, just need to get in line with everybody else.

Hope this helps and good luck,

-S