Some people buy art with the expectation that its value will appreciate over time, similar to stocks or real estate. For these reasons, the value of art is not solely determined by its price tag, therefor is it indulging, or not?

Art is a complex and multifaceted expression of creativity, emotion, and ideas. It can take many forms beyond paintings, sculptures, and drawings because art is appreciated by different individuals in differing ways. When we visited Argentina, we made it a practice to stop at every “artesanía” that would come along our way. During that trip I found three surprisingly small works that I will forever treasure. The first was a triptych carved into a tree branch two inches tall.  The panels of the triptych were held together by strings that carefully tied together. The second was a matchstick carved to look like an artist, positioned in place on a 1-inch wooden base, covered by a slim, glass dome. The third was a simple wooden carved cross with a small carved dove doweled into the cross section of the cross. Unfortunately, the dove broke away from the cross while in transit home. We paid less than $10 dollars for each of those items. Proof positive that the definition of art and its value, whether extravagant, indulging, or not, is open to interpretation and deeply personal for both the creators and observers.