FLORRIE’ S OCTOBER DOG DAYS
Florrie www. insidekent. co. uk • 39
DAYSOUT
TIPS ON BUYING LOCAL ART
Thinking of taking a piece of Kentish art home?
After exploring Kent galleries, studios and creative spaces, you may find a piece of artwork you simply cannot leave behind. Whether you are buying an original, commissioning a bespoke work or choosing a limited-edition print, there are a few things worth knowing before you make your purchase.
• What is an original?
An original is a unique, one-of-a-kind creation made directly by the artist’ s hand. Unlike a reproduction or print, it is not mass-produced, and you may be able to see the artist’ s individual brushstrokes, textures, marks and techniques within the work.
• What is a commission?
A commission is a bespoke artwork created specifically for a client. You work with the artist to agree on the concept, size, materials and style before the piece is created. It can be a wonderful option if you are looking for something personal or designed specifically for your home or business.
• What is a limited-edition print?
FLORRIE’ S OCTOBER DOG DAYS
BY FLORRIE, iK’ S RESIDENT COCKAPOO
Hello my spooky-season pals!
October is when autumn really gets going- crunchy leaves, darker evenings and the sudden appearance of novelty jumpers. Naturally, I am fully embracing this with some Howl-o-ween fun at Dobbies.
A limited-edition print is produced in a fixed number, with each copy usually numbered and signed by the artist. Once the edition has sold out, no further prints should be made in that run. It is a more affordable way to own an artist’ s work while still buying something with a degree of exclusivity and collectability.
KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU BUY:
• Is it an original, limited-edition or reproduction?
Make sure you know exactly what you are purchasing. If it is a print, ask whether it is part of a limited edition and, if so, how many copies have been produced.
• Does it come with a certificate of authenticity?
For original and limited-edition works, ask whether documentation is provided confirming the artist, title, date and details of the work. Keep this safely with your purchase as part of its provenance.
• What materials have been used?
Ask the artist or gallery about the paints, paper, canvas and other materials used. Quality archival materials can help an artwork remain in good condition for many years when properly cared for.
• What does the total price include?
Dobbies Garden Centres go all out for dogs in October, with seasonal events, decorations and special treats. This year, its Pup-kin Patch invites us four-legged visitors to sniff out and choose our own autumn toy, tackle a little obstacle course and pose for a digital‘ paw-trait’. There’ s even the chance for a puppuccino afterwards. Fancy dress is encouraged for pups and humans, obviously, so this is not the occasion for understated autumn knitwear.
It’ s a fun, light-hearted way to enjoy spooky season without necessarily braving muddy fields or stormy beaches, and it’ s perfect for sociable pups who like a bit of buzz without too much walking.
My Halloween adventures don’ t end here though. On the big night itself, you can also find me dressed up and ready to meet my public at The Gannon House( thegannonhouse. com) in Faversham, where my humans go all out! Think a house transformed with spooky decorations( last year was a massive Mr Stay-Puft!), plenty of photo opportunities and enough creepy characters to make even the bravest cockapoo think twice.
More importantly, all that frightful fun has a lovely purpose as our annual display raises money for charity. Last year, we raised over £ 1,200 for Taylor Made Dreams, which supports children with lifelimiting illnesses and their families. So come and find me, say hello and help turn a little Halloween mischief into something rather special. with Florrie
Before making the purchase, check whether the quoted price includes VAT, framing, delivery and shipping. If you are buying a larger work, it is also worth asking how it will be packaged or transported.
• How should it be displayed and cared for?
Ask whether the artwork needs specialist framing or protection and where it should be hung. Direct sunlight, humidity and changes in temperature can affect some materials, so check how best to preserve your purchase.
October doesn’ t have to be scary. Sometimes it just needs a good costume, a wagging tail and a very good cause.
Until next month,
Florrie www. insidekent. co. uk • 39