Discovering art you love is a wonderful occurrence that everyone deserves to experience, and feeling comfortable enough to take it home should be part of it too. We feel so strongly about this that we decided to highlight a few of the ways we work to make art accessible and affordable for anyone to enjoy!
Pat Shattuck, Deedee's Ice Cream, Matted Print, $10-40
Many people feel too intimidated to let themselves fully experience or even enter an art gallery. There is no need to worry, Halifax is a small fish city in the big ocean of an art world, and this means the art community here is approachable and intimate. If you are looking for somewhere to start, come on down and give us a visit.
Basil Doucette, Assorted Folk Art Birds, Acrylic on Hand-Carved Wood, $15-20
We are a commercial gallery and privately owned, which means you will never have to pay to come in and look around like a museum or some other public galleries. There aren't many spaces or activities anymore that are completely free, and you can take as much time as you'd like to simply hang out and enjoy the atmosphere.
Raquel Roth, Hand Painted Cards, Acrylic on Canvas Paper, $10-20
Everything we show here at the gallery deserves to find a home. It's more important that you love it than that you are an art expert! There is no prior knowledge required to enjoy art. However, there is often an emotional attachment involved both for the artist and the customer, which comes with its own value.
Julian Covey, Functional Ceramic Giftware, $50-65
If you've never been into Argyle Fine Art (or a gallery in general), the first artwork that comes to mind is probably a large scale piece with a large scale price tag. Don't be discouraged, there is so much more out there! We have stickers, bookmarks, cards, prints, postcards, jewellery, ornaments, ceramics and more! You can do little things such as frame your print, and it will be just as impactful as a larger piece. There are many treasures to be found that cost less than it would to dine out for one meal! Plus, you get to give it a home for the long term.
(Left) The Critter Company, Cat in Toque Sticker, $5
(Right) Amy Crosby, Lighthouse Vinyl Sticker, $6
If you fall in love with a larger piece there are options too! We do payment plans, and we can work together to figure out the best way for you to take what you love home over an allotted period of time. Payment plans are interest-free, so you don't have to worry about feeling rushed.
Jack Ross, Cape Split, Acrylic on Wood Panel, 11"x14", $475
We are always changing around what we have on show here at the gallery! If you are interested in something that you don't see on the walls, we can help you look at the collections tucked away to find what you are looking for.
Our annual Pre-Shrunk Showcase is a great chance to own a piece of art for an affordable price. Each year we show work from artists in various mediums that all measure 4"x5", and are $175. This is a wonderful way to start out if you are considering to start collecting original local art in Canada.
If you spend any time at the gallery you may meet some of the local artists whose work is shown here! They often stop by to drop off new pieces or just to visit. Developing an intimate relationship with the makers behind the art is one of our favourite parts about the environment here. Having conversations with the artists can also help to lower the intimidation factor of spending time in a gallery. Everyone is just a member of the community, whether they are making, purchasing, sharing, or simply enjoying the art.
(Left) Wendy Roy Maker, Earrings, Resin, $40
(Right) Angela Doak, Flying Squirrel Card, $6
We work with many emerging artists, which means you can help support people in the beginning of their career. Emerging works are often quite affordable, and a little goes a long way in supporting the development of their work! Not only are you supporting the artist, you are participating in the support of a local small business and contributing to the culture of the community, which we are thankful for in many ways.
At the end of the day, cost concerns shouldn't have to stop you from enjoying art you love! Sharing art is what we are here for, and if there is anything we can do to make it easier for you, we will!
Briana Corr Scott, House by the Sea, Art Print, 11"x14", $35
