Is $2,000 worth paying for a young artist's work?

SINGAPORE - Step into an art show for new artists and it is not unusual to see four-figure price tags.

For first-time art buyers who expect to find "bargains" by checking out fresh faces at graduate shows or young talent showcases at galleries, a $1,500 price tag may present a bit of sticker shock. Especially when one can still find works by more mature and established artists for under $5,000.