CITYist

Kate by Servane Mary

Untitled by Alexander Ross

Apart from robbing the MOMA, access to appealing, contemporary art is expensive and not so easy to acquire (Actually, this would only be considered simple for James Bond). But to avoid jail time, because who actually looks good in orange, try this innovative way to obtain quality art. Enter ARTWELOVE, an up-and-coming art-shopping site that allows customers to purchase exclusive, high-quality paintings by contemporary artists. Amazingly, the quality and limited nature of these paintings well exceeds the low prices (works range from a modest $15 to $2,000). Each week, at least one limited edition work is released and ARTWELOVE.com features interesting interviews with each artist, so you can learn more about where each piece comes from.

The site was started by Laurence Lafforgue, an art lover who was concerned about the severe gap in the market for affordable, contemporary artwork, along with Jonathan Vanasco and The Barbarian Group. It was unveiled in 2010 and is a rising success. The art-loving team consistently asks contemporary artists to create exclusive pieces so that art appreciators have access to museum quality works without having to deplete their savings.

And if you’re unsure of the painting’s translation from screen to personal view, make an appointment and head over to the company’s showroom on W. 21st Street. These one of a kind pieces are perfect for your living room or for those friends that desire a gift as unique as their interests. Even better, ARTWELOVE is offering a discount exclusively for CITY readers, making it that much easier find a gift for that certain someone (or, heck, even yourself).

Now all you need is to decide what belongs in your collection. Decrepit security guard not included.

(For 10% off the retail cost, simply enter AWL4CITYIST10 at checkout. The code is valid until December 31, 2010, perfect timing for the Christmas season!)