Are people buying art online?

Wyn · Joined: 29 Sep 2008 Posts: 5 Location: Queensland

We have just extended our services to hosting a one off Guest spot online to artists who want to promote their work without the cost of setting up an expensive online shopping site. The Artist concerned didn't want to have to take time out to man a web site or for that matter extend to the costs associated with this.

I guess I am trying to gauge the demand or the liking of artists for this sort of outlet?? And perhaps what it should look like - longer term?

Would be interested in your feedback. And if any of your have dabbled in this field - what were the problems you found?

Steve Gray · Joined: 17 Aug 2008 Posts: 1510 Location: Geelong

Up to a point I think people will buy, but what sort of art will they buy? I suggest it would be more decorative works rather than art of higher artistic or cultural merit.

To test this check out what sells on Ebay and for how much. from what I have seen it's under $1,000.

But I woud also love to hear what others have found.

Amandav · Joined: 17 Sep 2005 Posts: 1835 Location: Hervey Bay

There are already plenty of online portals where artists can put their work up and sell on line (redbubble, absolutearts, boundless etc. etc.) and for the most part artists don't make a huge amount of sales from these.

I agree with Steve, some work does sell on the internet. In the type of set up you seem to be referring to it tends to be decorative and/or low priced work. The internet helps galleries to get work to a broader audience but by and large it brings the audience INTO the gallery rather than sales on the internet.

People like to see artwork.

Wyn · Joined: 29 Sep 2008 Posts: 5 Location: Queensland

Thanks Guys - I think you are right - the web seems to attract attention but act more as a drawcard than a major sales point - cheers Wyn

smellypunks · Joined: 09 Aug 2009 Posts: 20

I agree with Amandav, but would like to add that I believe the interest is all about prints rather than originals.