Bag an artwork by a rising star ... Timewatchers Bagatelle, 2007, by Charles Avery. Photograph: courtesy the artist
Buying art is an unnerving experience, and who but the very rich feel confident in asking the price of a work of art in a commercial gallery? Even if you did ask the chances are the assistants behind the desk wouldn't tell you. In this business a good dealer is one who doesn't sell to just anyone. So where does the cash-strapped art lover go?
There is a booming editions market designed for that very dilemma - but beware, editions are a minefield, and if you are looking to make a quick buck, avoid anything over 100 because they are difficult to sell on. Art fairs are another alternative, and have the added advantage of clearly displayed prices - thus avoiding the toe-curling moment when you realise the tiny drawing costs more than your flat. But places like Frieze and Zoo can be intimidating.
To this end, Artfutures, which is on until March 12 2008, is probably a good place to start. It is curator-driven, so there are no dealers trying to off-load the dregs of their collection. The atmosphere is relaxed and there is a team of advisers to help if you like the bespoke service. Many of the artists are up-and-coming stars, including Bedwyr Williams who represented Wales in the 2005 Venice Biennale and Charles Avery who represented Scotland in 2007. A spare £4,000 will secure you a DJ Simpson, while £400 will buy you a work by the slapstick duo Wood and Harrison.
What is refreshing about the fair is its lack of pretence: this is an opportunity for the aesthetically-minded but culturally-intimidated to buy without the fear of being challenged for their artistic credentials. Along with such innovative events as Publish and Be Damned and Art Car Boot sale, Artfutures is democratic in spirit, showcasing the young with the old without hierarchy. There's every chance you might find a prospective Turner Prize nominee, just remember the art world is a strange and fickle place completely beholden to fashion. So buy something you like; it might be hanging on your wall for a long time to come.
