Art glossary for collectors, enthusiasts, and artists

A curated glossary for the world of modern and abstract art—tailored specifically to the German market.

Buying art– The general term for the purchase of artworks, both online and through galleries or auctions.

Buy picture– Most frequently used search term for purchasing wall art, photographic art, or paintings in a residential context.

Buy paintings– Focused on hand-painted artworks, often oil or acrylic paintings.

Original art– A unique work, not a print or replica. Particularly valuable for collectors.

Buying art online– purchasing art via digital platforms, galleries, or art marketplaces.

Art investment– The purchase of artworks with the aim of long-term value appreciation.

Appreciation in value of art– The potential financial development of a work of art over time.

Art as an investment– The strategic use of artworks to diversify assets.

Abstract art– an art form without recognizable motifs that communicates through form, color, and line.

Modern art– art from the late 19th to the mid-20th century; innovative, provocative, and opposed to traditional forms of representation.

Expressionism– A style characterized by emotionally charged colors and forms, particularly prevalent in Germany.

Informel– Gestural, spontaneous painting style without clear structure, as a counter-movement to rationalism.

Minimalism– an artistic style that focuses on simplicity, reduction, and clarity of form.

Concrete art– art based on clear geometric principles – often structured and rational.

Oil on canvas– Classic painting technique with high color depth and durability.

Acrylic painting– Modern, quick-drying technique, ideal for bold colors and textured surfaces.

Mixed media– Combination of different materials such as paper, fabric, sand on a canvas.

Pigment painting– Painting with pure color pigments, often bright and intense.

Large-format painting– works on a particularly large scale, often displayed in modern gallery spaces.

Contemporary artists– Active artists who work today and reflect on current issues.

German painters– Artists from German-speaking countries, particularly relevant in the context of this glossary.

Gallery artists– Artists who are exclusively represented and sold through a gallery.

Art managers– Professional intermediaries who strategically place and market artists.

Exclusive representation– Contractual commitment of an artist to a specific gallery or agency.

Art education– The professional presentation and marketing of works of art.

Art consulting– Services for collectors, investors, or institutions in the selection of art.

Curated collection– A targeted selection of artworks with a specific thematic or stylistic focus.

Exclusive art gallery– galleries that only represent selected artists, often with collector services.

Private Art Manager– Individual art consulting and career support for artists with high standards.

This glossary will grow over time—based on market observation, search behavior, and curatorial sensitivity.