Buying art by living artists is more than necessary.

Don’t you find it disgusting that many artists earn more money after they die? Resting in their graves, they seem to be more highly regarded than when they were alive. But this comes far too late.

I’m not going to make a list of all the artists to whom this has happened, because it would be endless. But let’s think, for example, of one of the most famous artists on this planet: Frida Kahlo.
A few years ago, I read letters she had written and sent to various recipients (family, lovers, friends…) and in which she regularly asked for money. I was told that she lived the high life and that this would explain these requests.I haven’t checked this information but I must say that it would only half surprise me, but still! When I see all the money that comes from her art now, it’s sad to see that she could have lived without these requests if she had lived in our time.

According to some articles, Francesca Woodman’s father said that one of the causes of his daughter’s suicide was a grant rejection.
In 1963, Sylvia Plath committed suicide. It was said that one of the causes, besides depression, was a financial problem. At that time, Sylvia Plath was separated from her husband. She had to raise her two children and the winter was really cold. A combination of financial worries that may unfortunately have aggravated her mental health.
It would be wrong to think that we know better than these people what drove them to suicide. But how can we not think that if these artists had had fewer financial problems, they might still be alive today?
Of course, we shouldn’t think that all the artists who are refused grants, who have a very low income, commit suicide. Fortunately, this is not the case! However, giving money to artists is more than a necessity.
Here’s why:

It’s no surprise, but paying artists is vital for them. It’s like a salary and to live, to eat, and to finance the next projects, one needs to be paid.

Buying art by living artists is also a form of recognition.
Paying an artist means that you recognize the work done, the talent,
investment, and skills. In brief: to acknowledge that the artist deserves to be paid.
It’s a moral support because, as artists, we tell ourselves that what we do is valuable. And the investment that art buyers make can be financially beneficial for them too.

Also, buying art from dead artists is useless.
I know, it’s quite surprising, isn’t it? ;)
As I said, it’s now that we need money. Not when we‘re forever gone.
It is said that Vincent Van Gogh only sold one painting in his lifetime.
Look at how well known he is and how his work is exhibited all over the world today. Although once again, I can’t say what was going on when he committed suicide (and I know that this suicide is still controversial), I dare to think that a little financial help could have helped him a bit more.
Maybe that’s a bad example. But my point is that it’s when the artist is alive that they need to feed themselves, wear clothes, pay fees, healthcare,
have a roof above their head, and have the tools to work.
The money is useless when the artist is dead.

I often go through hard times, and money is always a big problem.
As an artist, I’ve a very low income. When I get royalties at the end of the year, it’s almost funny (even though I gladly accept them) because they’re almost non-existent. I know that there’s always someone who is in a much worse situation than I am. But I also know that if I made more money from my art, I would feel less anxious. I would certainly have more confidence in my work and in the future. And I would think less about changing careers.
Paying artists means paying for their current and future projects.
By doing this,you allow them to continue their careers.
How many incredible artists have given up their careers due to a lack of income? Many, unfortunately. I know some of them and I can assure you that it’s a great loss for the art world.

I know that many artworks are really expensive. I’m even shocked by some prices. So I can see why this might put a lot of people off.
But if you’re an art buyer, the next time you have a crush on an artwork,
don’t look at the popularity of the artist. Instead, think about how the artist needs you now. Not when he or she is dead. By doing this, you are investing not only in the artwork, but also in the artist’s future.