How much should your first original painting cost? A UK buyer's guide

"Is £500 too much for my first piece of art?" It's one of the most common questions new collectors ask. The honest answer: there's no right number — but knowing what drives the price helps you spend with confidence.

What affects the price

Size, medium and the artist's experience matter most. Large oils usually cost more than small watercolours or drawings. An artist who exhibits regularly and sells often will usually charge more than someone just starting out.

Framing and delivery can add to the total, so ask whether they're included.

Typical UK prices from independent artists

Many independent UK painters selling direct price small and medium originals from around £150 up to about £1,500, with larger works going higher. Sketches and studies by newer artists can cost much less.

Buy what you love at a price you're comfortable with.

Start small if you like

A small original, a drawing or a study is a brilliant first purchase. Our Sketchbook section features beginner drawings and studies from artists at the start of their journey.

Why buying direct is better value

When a gallery or marketplace takes 40–50%, artists often have to raise prices to cover it. On artistgallery there's no commission, so you pay the artist's price and every pound goes to them.