How to buy art when you know nothing about art...

I want to tell you something you may not know... you don’t need a degree in art history to appreciate and choose art, you already have the most sophisticated tool for judging art. It's not a dusty art history book or a highbrow gallery owner's opinion. It's your gut. When I was teaching art to children for many years, I always said the great thing about art is there is no right or wrong answer and I stick by that mantra when it comes to choosing art for your home.

I have created a relaxed and friendly corner of the art world to help you choose pieces that speak to you.

Art understanding isn't a prerequisite for loving it. Knowledge is just one way in and quite honestly, it's not always the most interesting or heartfelt path.

You don't need to know who painted what in 1938, what giclée means or be able to pronounce ‘diptych’. You don't have to be a collector with 100s of paintings, in the hope you've stumbled upon the next Matisse. You can know absolutely nothing and still walk into a room, see a piece and feel a burst of emotion.

If you're new to the world of art and curating a collection for your home, what catches your eye? What makes you stop scrolling or brings a smile to your face? What piece makes your heart skip a beat, the one that you can’t stop thinking about? The one you keep checking in in in-case someone else has bought it. That's the one. Art is less about technicalities and more about sheer emotion.

There's no exclusive formula for ‘good art’. But there's a deeply personal inner compass for what makes a home feel like yours, not like a carbon copy of your favourite interiors Instagram account! You build that feeling one art work at a time, even if it takes years!

Here at Number 13, you'll find a kind and encouraging corner of the art world. I'll never judge you. I feel strongly about creating a place where you can confidently find and buy art without feeling self conscious. My hope is that it feels down to earth and welcoming, somewhere you can let your guard down and just look at art in a relaxed and non-judgemental environment.  It’s okay if you don't buy anything; I’m just glad you're here discovering new artists and exploring the possibility of adding more art to your space.

So, when it comes to how to buy art, you already know enough. You are allowed to love something simply because you do, without a technical or historical reason, have fun with the process, enjoy yourself and remember - Trust your gut! Shop art here.

Any questions feel free to ask, Emily