Reality TV star turned podcaster Abbie Chatfield has ignited a lively debate about the value of art after asking her legion of followers what they would pay for her work. The 30-year-old media personality, who recently embarked on a painting journey, suggested enthusiasts might be willing to part with over $300 (approximately £240) for a high-quality A3 print.
Polling the Public on Price Points
Taking to her Instagram Stories on Tuesday, Chatfield directly engaged her 585,000 followers with a crucial business question. Sharing an image of one of her recent abstract pieces, she asked, 'How much would you pay for a high-quality A3 print?' She revealed her research indicated that wholesale printing costs for an A3 piece were around $150, prompting her to seek advice from other artists on appropriate pricing. The industry standard often involves a markup of more than 100% after costs, a figure that can climb higher for in-demand artists.
Fan Adoration and Fierce Criticism
The response to Chatfield's new artistic venture has been sharply divided. On her dedicated art page, 'Bug Doing Art', she shared a video featuring sketches, including several of her boyfriend, musician Adam Hyde. Admirers flooded the comments with purchase offers and commissions. 'Oh my god, I would totally buy your art!' one fan exclaimed, while others praised her talent.
However, not all feedback was positive. A contingent of critics was brutally dismissive, comparing her work unfavourably to that of young children and questioning her ambition. 'This is pure delusion, have you seen a Picasso or a Rembrandt painting?' one detractor asked, highlighting the subjective and often contentious nature of valuing modern art.
Art as Anxiety Relief and a New Beginning
Chatfield first shared her completed artwork with fans just days earlier, on Sunday. She debuted an abstract portrait of a 'psychedelic slug', explaining that she had taken up painting to help manage her anxiety. The pastime has quickly evolved into a potential commercial endeavour. Her boyfriend, Adam Hyde, offered unwavering support, commenting, 'I'm so proud of you. It's just the beginning.' Whether her foray into the art world will be defined by commercial success or continued debate, Chatfield has certainly got people talking about the price of creativity.
