Urban Art Association

The Forum - A Reflection, by JockoLad on Dec 16, 2016 13:02:24 GMT 1, Forumites,

I have lurked in this forum for near enough 10 years now. I log in rarely but read posts daily.

I would like to thank everyone who contributes regularly as over the years I have slowly evolved into an art lover.

In 2006 a friend pointed me in the direction of POW to have a look at artwork by an artist called Banksy. I loved his work but felt that £300 for a painting and £50 for a poster (print) was too much for me at that time. I have no regrets however as I had no idea of the price rises that were to come and Banksy's increased fame.

Since that time I've bought and sold a few artworks to fund me through poorer times (something I never imagined I would be doing - a bit of minor art dealing) and now, having more in the way of a disposable income buy art on a regular basis. Thanks to recommendations made on the forum I own a number of originals and signed prints and have even commissioned work by local artists, including recently seeking out a local sign writer to create a couple of name plates for my kids' bedrooms this Christmas. Thankfully I did manage to hold on to a good few of the early prints I bought and now wouldn't consider selling them, although I'm now paranoid of holding on to them for fear of damaging them or having them stolen etc.

I am perhaps being overly reflective and soppy but it's a part of my life that brings great pleasure. I have sold prints I wish I had held on to however now have a house full of great art that I would likely have missed out on had people on this forum failed to share their knowledge of the scene. I will continue to lurk as I feel I rarely have anything worthwhile to contribute to discussions - please don't judge me, it's what suits me best.

Here's to the next 10 years, who knows what lies ahead...