Without the Inconvenience of being Dead...

Nov/Dec 2018 edition
Issue #2 AutoMobilia Resource Magazine
Steve Austin

"Above the Law" by David Uhl. Currently selling for $1,850 to $3,250.

Art is an unscientific business and maybe that is why so many great artists struggle to be financially successful without the inconvenience of being dead. 

Nevertheless, there are quite a few who have made more than a good living from their talents.  The trick is to have a good sales system in place.

Three good examples are all living American artists; Randy Owens (Maryland), Ken Eberts (California) and  David Uhl (Colorado).  They have managed to organize a good team to look after the sales while they continually put out awesome work. The three pieces shown here are representative of their skill.

I’m always asked what paintings are going to be worth a lot more in a few years. My answer is always “I don’t know”.  What I would like to say is, “it shouldn’t really matter”.  Politeness, and concern for the potential loss of a client may have a controlling bearing on my responses.

The fact is, art should be considered for its value to you as a viewer. How much satisfaction does it give you?  Frankly I wouldn’t want ‘The Scream’ (by Expressionist artist Edvard Munch) staring at me in my living room any more than I could afford it. 

The aforementioned three artists have produced some indelible pieces that just hit my nerve, that’s why I like them.  Now if they appreciate, all the better.  The only advice I would really pass on is - if you are in it for the money, don’t buy ten prints, buy one original.

"Christmas Time 1942" by Ken Eberts. 18" x 24" Limited edition print of 850. Currently $120.

"Monaco Ferrari 1 & 2" by Randy Owens. 28" x 20" giclée of this image currently selling for $175

What continuously surprises me with some artists is their absorption of painting particular subjects that are, quite honestly, of little interest to almost no one.  They must be true artists! 

The opposite end is a lovely man who lives in the south of France and rides around on his Harley.  Every now and again he gets short of cash, goes into his studio and paints.  A number of us buy the results and off he goes on his bike.  The man is now well into his late sixties and has no intention of change.  He just happens to be a brilliant artist, I mean mega brilliant.  His pieces are already changing hands at telephone number prices.  He could be considered one of the greats, but he has no interest in his own work – they are a means to his own ends, and he remains incognito to all but a few friends and associates. I love the man!

​Steve Austin

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