These days, there are endless ways to invest our money. Stocks. Crypto. Real estate. But those investments often feel intangible, subject to the ups and downs of the market. That’s where a different investment–art–can fill the gap, offering intrinsic value and aesthetic pleasure.
Local art allows you to not only decorate your home or office space with something inspirational or beautiful, but it also gives you a story, as pieces showcase both the enjoyment of the purchaser and the intention of the creator. Local artist and current president of the Plano Art Association, Rebecca Archuleta, says that’s one of her favorite parts about collecting art. “When you purchase art directly from an artist you get the story behind it too. Artists love to tell you why we painted this, what it is, and what inspired us,” she says. It’s the stories, in addition to the art, that we collect.
Plano may be overlooked by art collectors who prefer galleries in larger cities, but those who know where to look know that Plano is home to artists constantly improving their craft. “With 175 members, our organization is always looking to share the joy, passion, and beauty within and beyond our Plano community,” Archuleta says.
The Plano Art Association, or PAA, works hard to make art accessible to every citizen of Plano, while still allowing collectors to brag about their one-of-a-kind piece. Local residents can engage with local artists through many PAA events, such as visiting the PAA’s gallery in Willow Bend Mall, attending PAA’s monthly pop-up sidewalk event in Downtown Plano, or their larger annual events, like their 125 Exhibition. At each event, collectors can chat with artists and curators and purchase unique, ready-to-hang pieces. That’s one way that PAA is different from buying prints at a big-box retail store.
Archuleta explains, “At many stores, you're getting a very generic frame, whereas with us, you're getting something displayed exactly how it's meant to be, and you are supporting your community.”
The community aspect is what keeps PAA going. For over 50 years, the PAA has created a way for artists to learn, sell, and grow together. Archuleta explains, “We have emerging artists from 16 years old up to 83 years old. We truly believe it's never too late to join and to grow. Our group teaches artists how to be in a gallery and how to sell their art. We also teach them about different kinds of media, and we give artists the opportunity to try other styles.”
Even the gallery run by the PAA is unique. Rather than collecting a majority of the sale as a commission, the PAA takes a more modest donation from sold art to ensure accessibility to artists (and that the money stays in the artist’s pocket).
And while art is not typically viewed as an investment for the average consumer, the PAA offers art at every price point to ensure accessibility for local buyers. “One of our shows last year was called Art for All. In that show, each piece was priced $300 or less. We wanted to prove that original art is affordable for everyone. You'd be surprised to know that local artists can make quality, original work at a lower cost,” recalls Archuleta. Whether you’re seeking a large oil painting or a unique sculpture, consider looking closer to home by investing in a piece from the Plano Art Association.
Ready to find the next piece for your collection? Visit www.planoartassociation.org for details on their gallery, their monthly Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest pop-up, and other larger events.