The Best Places To Find Quality Art on the Cheap

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A decorator may consider art an essential component of a home’s interior, but it certainly doesn’t have the utilitarian appeal of a sofa, table, or bed. If you’re not a wealthy art collector or plugged in to the underground art scene, you probably don’t want to drop a lot of money just to dress up your walls.

Luckily, there are plenty of paintings, posters, photography, and more to be had at every price point. In fact, sourcing good-quality art that won’t break the bank is possible.

“We all know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Then art, too, is a personal choice,” says Nikki Holmes, a retired broker with Gold Rush Realty, in Auburn, CA. She believes that virtually any piece of art you choose for your home can be beautiful, no matter how much you pay.

The hunt is part of the fun, but knowing where to look for inexpensive art will help you stay on (or under) budget. Whether you’re looking to source a unique mirror or a reprint of a classic Matisse, here are some places to explore.

Internet art vendors

While you may not be able to acquire an original Picasso, you can still pick out your favorite artwork to adorn your walls.

“In my profession, both mainstream and outré work to tie a space together,” says Holmes.

You can find quality work from unknown artists, as well as prints and posters of more famous artists’ work, online at websites like 20×200, Art.com, and Urban Outfitters, with prices starting in the $20 range. World Market and Society6 have art under $100. Let your taste guide you.

Virtual garage sales

Smartphones changed the way people sell their wares, and sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist make listing items or even garage sales much easier.

“Never underestimate the power of Craigslist. There are always people selling valuable items for amazingly low prices,” says Laura Boyajian, a Realtor® with HomeSmart in Phoenix.

Estate sales

A good selection of quality art can be found at estate sales—often at negotiable prices. Get ready to haggle!

Locate estate sales near you on EstateSales.org, or check your local newspaper.

Holmes also recommends networking with professionals who work mostly with seniors downsizing.

“I work closely with a number of those wonderful people, and they are often forced to dump things of value, simply because finding a new home for every item would be immensely time-consuming,” she says.

Farmers markets

Open-air markets often have original pieces from emerging artists, as well as reprints from the masters, like Renoir and van Gogh.

“I have found that farmers markets are a great place to find reasonably priced art,” says Holmes. “If your space needs something, you might want to look locally for anything large, as shipping could be a problem.”

You might also discover a local artist willing to sell an original piece at a bargain price.

“There are so many talented artists out there trying to get their pieces known, and they frequently rent booths to display their art,” Boyajian says.

Secondhand stores

If you have the patience, sifting through secondhand stores like Goodwill and the Salvation Army can, on occasion, land a hidden gem. Holmes says off-the-beaten-path thrift stores are great places to find a rare etching or original treasure.

“People donate items worth thousands of dollars. Goodwill has been known to sell very valuable items for very little. You just have to go frequently,” says Boyajian.

Art school showcases and local art displays

Art schools can be a gold mine for original art created by students, so keep an eye out for local showcases and sales. Savvy buyers may be able to deal directly with student artists whose work catches their eye.

“Try attending local art shows at colleges, where starving students would be thrilled to have their art purchased and displayed,” says Holmes.

Local art is also a staple at any independent coffee shop, so keep your eyes peeled.

“The prices are very reasonable, and artwork is original,” says Boyajian.

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