[ElSapo]

Sometimes it may not be possible to avoid commissions - depending on the artist, their loyalty to their representation, and so on. But gallery commissions are high if you're going that route, but if you're going that route (through an established commercial gallery) then we're usually talking more than $500.

Try art fairs. Try small exhibitions, and group exhibitions. Where do you live?

Many artists will work with you on price - they want to sell their work. They'll especially work with repeat buyers, or people they know a little better.

Consider collecting prints (not posters, obviously, but lithos or etchings and so on), which often can be a little cheaper and more accessible but certainly no less "art."