Selling Your Art Online: An Artist's Expanded, Personal Guide to Platforms, Pricing, and Persistence
Let's be honest. As artists, we'd often rather be in the studio, lost in the process, covered in paint or clay, than dealing with the business side of things. Selling? Marketing? Platforms? It can feel like a whole other universe, one that requires a different kind of energy entirely. But in today's world, selling art online isn't just an option; for many of us, it's a necessity. It's how we connect with collectors far and wide, how we build a sustainable practice, and, frankly, how we keep the lights on and buy more supplies.
I remember the first time I considered putting my work online. It felt... vulnerable. Like standing naked in a crowded room. Would anyone even see it? Would they like it? More importantly, would they buy it? The sheer number of platforms out there felt overwhelming. Etsy, Saatchi Art, my own website, Instagram, specialized galleries... where do you even start? It felt like trying to navigate a massive, brightly lit art fair all by yourself, without a map. I've been there, wrestling with spreadsheets and shipping labels when all I wanted was to be back at the easel. This isn't just a dry list of platforms; it's my personal take, the stuff I wish someone had told me when I was starting out, mixed with the practicalities you absolutely need to know. Let's figure this out together.
Preparing Your Art for the Digital World
Before you even think about where to sell, you need to make sure your art is ready for its close-up. The digital world is visual, and first impressions are everything. This is where the rubber meets the road, and honestly, it's where many artists stumble. Your beautiful, vibrant painting needs to translate accurately to a screen.
Photography is King (or Queen)
Seriously. Bad photos will kill your sales faster than anything else. Your beautiful, vibrant painting looks dull and crooked? Nobody's buying that. You need clear, well-lit, color-accurate photos. Take multiple shots: straight on (crucial!), close-ups of texture, maybe one showing the scale (like leaning against a wall or on an easel). For sculptures or 3D work, multiple angles are a must. Consider lifestyle shots showing the art in a room setting, helping buyers visualize it.
I'm not a professional photographer, and my early attempts were... rough. I remember trying to photograph a large, dark painting in my poorly lit living room. Disaster! The colors were muddy, the edges were warped, and it looked nothing like the actual piece. But I learned. Natural light is your friend, but avoid direct sunlight which causes harsh shadows. A tripod helps immensely for sharp, straight shots. Editing is necessary (adjusting brightness, contrast, white balance) but be careful not to distort the colors. The goal is accuracy, not Instagram filters. Think of it as presenting your work in the best possible light, literally.
Tips for Photography on a Budget: Don't have fancy equipment? No problem. Your smartphone camera is likely capable of taking great photos. Find a spot with good natural light (near a window, but out of direct sun). Use a plain, neutral background (a white sheet or wall works). Prop your phone up or use a cheap tripod for stability. There are many free or low-cost editing apps (like Snapseed or Adobe Lightroom Mobile) that can help you adjust lighting and color accurately without needing expensive software.
A Simple Smartphone Photography Setup:
- Find Your Light: Choose a spot near a large window. Aim for soft, indirect natural light. Avoid direct sun as it creates harsh shadows and blown-out highlights. North-facing windows are often best for consistent light throughout the day.
- Set the Scene: Use a plain, neutral background. A white or light grey wall, a large sheet, or even a piece of foam board works well. Ensure it's clean and wrinkle-free. For 3D objects, place them on a simple surface like a table or pedestal.
- Position Your Art: Place your artwork flat on the floor or lean it against the wall. Ensure it's perfectly straight and centered in your frame. For 3D work, position it to capture key angles and details.
- Stabilize Your Phone: Use a tripod if you have one, even a small, inexpensive one. If not, prop your phone up on a stack of books or lean it against something stable to avoid camera shake. Use the self-timer or a remote shutter button if possible.
- Shoot Straight On: This is crucial for paintings and flat work. Position your camera directly in front of the center of the artwork, ensuring the edges are parallel to the edges of your phone screen. Avoid shooting from an angle, which causes distortion.
- Capture Details: Take close-up shots to show texture, brushstrokes, or intricate details. These help buyers appreciate the craftsmanship.
- Show Scale: Include a photo of the artwork in a room setting or next to a common object (like a chair or small plant) to give buyers a sense of its size.
- Edit Carefully: Use a photo editing app (Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile, etc.) to adjust brightness, contrast, and white balance. The goal is to make the photo look as close to the actual artwork as possible, not to make it look 'better' with filters.
Creating High-Quality Digital Files
Beyond just the initial photograph, you need to think about the digital file itself. This is especially critical if you plan to sell prints or digital downloads. Resolution, file type, and color space all matter.
- Resolution: For prints, you need high resolution – typically 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the intended print size. This ensures sharpness and detail. Think of DPI as the density of information; more dots per inch means more detail. For web use, 72 DPI is usually sufficient and keeps file sizes smaller for faster loading. Smaller files mean faster website loading times, which is good for SEO and user experience.
- File Type: TIFF files are generally preferred for high-quality prints as they are uncompressed and retain maximum detail. JPEGs are standard for web use due to their smaller size, but use the highest quality setting to minimize compression artifacts. PNGs are good for images with transparency.
- Color Space: Work in a standard color space like sRGB for web images to ensure colors look consistent across different screens. sRGB is the most common color space used by monitors and web browsers. For printing, discuss color space requirements (like Adobe RGB or CMYK) with your print provider. Adobe RGB has a wider range of colors than sRGB, often preferred for professional printing, while CMYK is the standard for process printing (like brochures or magazines).
Getting this right can feel technical, but it's the digital equivalent of using quality materials. It ensures your art looks its best, whether on a screen or printed on paper.
Build a Strong Online Portfolio
Before you even list on platforms, consider creating a central online portfolio. This acts as your professional hub, showcasing your best work in a curated way. It's different from just listing on a marketplace; it's about presenting your overall artistic vision and history. Platforms like Behance, ArtStation (especially for digital artists), or a dedicated portfolio section on your own website (/buy) are great options. Ensure your portfolio is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and includes high-quality images and clear descriptions.
Write Compelling Descriptions
This is your chance to connect with the buyer emotionally and intellectually. Don't just list the size and medium. Tell the story behind the piece. What inspired it? What feelings does it evoke? What techniques did you use? Help the buyer imagine this piece in their own space. Mention the types of artwork you create and the materials you use. Be transparent about the materials – collectors appreciate knowing about quality and craftsmanship.
Think about what you'd want to know if you were buying art. What's the meaning of art to you, and how does that come through in this piece? Be personal, be authentic. Also, subtly weave in keywords that potential buyers might use to search for your work (e.g., "abstract landscape painting," "colorful contemporary art"). This helps people find you. We'll touch more on how keywords help later when we talk about SEO.
Pricing Your Work: More Than Just a Number
Ah, pricing. The eternal struggle. How much is your blood, sweat, and tears worth? This is deeply personal, but there are practical considerations. Research what similar artists are charging on the platforms you're using. Factor in your materials, time, and experience. Don't underprice yourself – it devalues your work and the work of other artists. But also be realistic about the market.
Pricing Different Product Types:
First, understand that pricing varies significantly based on what you're selling:
- Originals: Price reflects uniqueness, materials, time, experience, and market demand. This is your highest price point. Factors include size, medium, complexity, your reputation, and sales history. This is where collectors invest in a piece of you.
- Limited Edition Prints: Priced higher than open edition prints due to scarcity. The price per print might increase as fewer are available. The edition size (e.g., /50) and whether they are signed and numbered significantly impact value.
- Open Edition Prints: More affordable, volume-based pricing. Cost covers printing, packaging, and a small profit margin. These are great for making your work accessible to a wider audience.
- Digital Downloads: Lowest price point, as there are no material or production costs per sale. Pricing depends on the intended use (personal vs. commercial license). Licensing terms are key here.
Pricing Formulas (Starting Points):
There are tons of formulas out there (per square inch, hourly rate + materials, etc.). A simple starting point could be: (Cost of Materials + Hourly Rate * Hours) * 2. Here, 'Cost of Materials' is what you spent on canvas, paint, etc. 'Hourly Rate' is what you value your time at, and 'Hours' is the time spent creating. Multiplying by two helps cover overheads (like studio rent, marketing costs, website fees) and profit. Let's say materials cost $50, you spent 10 hours, and value your time at $20/hour. The calculation would be ($50 + $20 * 10) * 2 = ($50 + $200) * 2 = $250 * 2 = $500. This gives you a baseline. Find one that feels fair to you and stick to it.
Another common method, especially for paintings, is pricing per square inch (or square foot/cm). You'd determine a rate (e.g., $5 per square inch) and multiply it by the area of the artwork. This method is simpler once you've established a rate, but determining the rate itself requires market research and factoring in your experience.
Be transparent about your pricing. If you're selling original art versus art prints or digital downloads, the pricing will be very different. Explain why. Remember to also factor in costs like framing, presentation, and potential platform fees when setting your final price. And when researching, look at what art has sold for, not just what's listed.
The Psychology of Pricing: Pricing isn't just math; it's also psychology. Your price communicates value. Pricing too low can make people question the quality or your experience. Pricing too high might scare off potential buyers. It's a balancing act. I remember feeling incredibly awkward putting a price tag on my early work, like I was putting a value on a piece of my soul! But you have to shift that mindset. You're not just selling paint on canvas; you're selling your skill, your vision, your years of practice, and a unique piece that will bring joy to someone's life. Don't be afraid to value that.
Offering Framing Options: For prints or even smaller originals, offering framing as an add-on can be a great service for buyers. You can partner with a local or online framer or offer standard sizes that fit readily available frames. Clearly show examples of framed work on your listings or website to help buyers visualize the finished piece.
Finding Your Digital Gallery Space: Choosing the Right Platform
Okay, your art is looking sharp and you've got your descriptions and pricing sorted. Now, where do you actually put it out there? Choosing where to sell is probably the next, and sometimes the hardest, step. It's like deciding where to exhibit your work physically – you want the right audience, the right vibe, and a space that feels right for you and your art. Think of it as finding the perfect art gallery for your work, but in the digital realm. The type of art you create (e.g., large abstract paintings vs. small intricate prints vs. digital art) can also heavily influence which platform is the best fit. Most artists find success using a combination of platforms.
There are generally a few main routes, each with its own personality:
1. Online Marketplaces (Etsy, Saatchi Art, Artfinder, etc.)
These are the big, bustling art fairs of the internet. They bring the traffic, which is fantastic, especially when you're starting out and don't have your own audience yet. Think of them as curated (or sometimes less curated) galleries with a built-in stream of potential buyers.
Here's a quick look at the trade-offs:
Pros  | Cons |
|---|---|
| Huge reach, built-in audience | Competition is fierce |
| Often handle payment processing and sometimes even shipping logistics | Fees (listing fees, commission fees) can eat into your profits |
| Good for visibility, especially early on | Harder to build your own brand identity when you're one stall among thousands |
| Variety of platforms catering to different styles/price points | You're playing by their rules (terms of service, display limitations) |
I've dabbled in a few. Etsy vs. Saatchi Art is a classic comparison, each with its own strengths and weaknesses depending on your style and price point. Etsy feels more handmade/crafty, while Saatchi Art leans more towards fine art. I remember listing my first few pieces on Etsy, feeling a mix of excitement and dread. Getting that first 'cha-ching' notification was a huge validation, even if the fees felt a bit steep. Other platforms like Artfinder, UGallery, and even broader sites like eBay can be options, each with its own niche and fee structure. It's worth exploring a few and seeing where your work feels like it fits best.
2. Print-on-Demand (POD) Services (Redbubble, Society6, Fine Art America, etc.)
This is a game-changer if you want to sell prints, home decor, or merchandise featuring your art without managing inventory or shipping yourself. You upload your image, choose which products you want it on, and the platform handles printing, shipping, and customer service when a sale is made. You get a percentage of the sale price.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Zero inventory costs or management | Lower profit margins per item compared to selling your own prints |
| No shipping or production hassle | Less control over product quality and customer experience |
| Wide range of products available (apparel, home goods, stationery) | High competition, requires driving your own traffic to stand out |
| Easy way to test market demand for different designs/products | Can feel less personal or 'fine art' focused depending on the platform and products |
I've found POD platforms like Redbubble and Society6 great for reaching a different audience and offering more accessible price points. It's a passive income stream once set up, though building visibility still takes effort. They're also fantastic for testing which designs resonate with people before you invest in producing your own physical prints. It's like a low-stakes market research tool.
3. Your Own Website
This is your personal gallery, built exactly how you want it. You have complete control over the look, feel, and branding. It's where you can tell your story, showcase your process, and build a direct relationship with your collectors. Think of it as your digital studio and exhibition space combined.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Full control over branding, presentation, and customer experience | You have to drive all the traffic yourself (requires significant marketing effort) |
| No platform commission fees (beyond e-commerce platform costs) | Setting up and maintaining an e-commerce store can be technically daunting |
| Direct connection with buyers, easier to build relationships | Requires managing inventory, payment processing, and shipping yourself |
| Can integrate your blog, artist statement, and timeline | Initial setup costs (domain, hosting, e-commerce platform subscription) |
For me, having my own site (/buy) felt like a crucial step in establishing my identity as an artist online. It's the central hub, even if I also sell elsewhere. It's where people can really get to know me and my work, see my artist statement explained, and understand my journey. While setting up the e-commerce part can feel daunting, platforms like Shopify, Squarespace, or even WordPress with plugins like WooCommerce have made it much more accessible than it used to be. It's an investment in your long-term brand.
4. Social Media (Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, etc.)
Not strictly selling platforms in the traditional sense, but essential tools for building an audience and making sales. Instagram, especially, has become a visual marketplace for art. You can sell directly via DMs or link to your website/shop.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free to use (mostly), massive reach potential | Algorithms can be frustrating and constantly changing |
| Great for showing process, behind-the-scenes, and connecting | Requires consistent content creation and engagement |
| Direct interaction and relationship building | Can be hard to manage inventory and sales without a dedicated shop link or system |
| Visual nature is perfect for showcasing art | Can feel less professional or secure for high-value sales compared to dedicated platforms |
I've found Instagram invaluable for sharing my work and connecting with people who resonate with it. It's less about a direct sale funnel and more about building a community that might lead to sales down the line. Sharing my art inspirations or process helps people connect with the work on a deeper level. Don't just post finished pieces; share time-lapses, studio tours, Q&A sessions, or even just snippets of your daily creative life. People love seeing the human behind the art.
5. Online Galleries & Curated Sites
These are somewhere between marketplaces and having your own site. They are often more selective, offering a more curated experience for buyers. Examples might include Artsy, Artspace, or smaller, niche online galleries. The key difference from marketplaces is the selection process – you typically have to apply or be invited. They often cater to a more serious collector base and can offer more support than a large marketplace.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Higher perceived value and prestige | Can be harder to get accepted (requires a more established practice) |
| Curated audience of serious collectors | May have higher commission rates or monthly fees |
| Often provide more support with marketing and sales | Less control over presentation and direct customer interaction compared to your own site |
This route can be great once you've established yourself a bit and are looking to reach a more specific collector base or sell higher-value pieces. It's like getting into a reputable list of art galleries, but online. Be prepared for an application process that might require an artist statement, CV, and a strong portfolio review.
6. Selling Digital Art & Photography (Beyond Prints)
Selling purely digital art or photography, where the buyer receives a digital file rather than a physical object, has its own ecosystem. This includes things like stock photos, digital illustrations, graphic design assets, or even NFTs.
Platforms like Gumroad, Creative Market, or specialized NFT marketplaces (like OpenSea or Rarible) cater to this. Your own website is also a strong option for selling licenses directly.
- Licensing Models: You need to decide on licensing terms – e.g., personal use only, commercial use (with different tiers for usage volume or type), exclusive rights. Clearly define what the buyer can and cannot do with the file.
- File Delivery: Ensure you have a reliable system for delivering high-resolution files securely upon purchase.
- NFTs: If exploring NFTs, understand the blockchain technology, associated costs (gas fees), and the specific marketplace rules. It's a volatile and complex space, but can offer new avenues for digital artists.
This area requires a different mindset regarding value – it's less about the physical object and more about the rights and uniqueness conveyed by the digital asset.
Which combination is right for you? Most artists don't stick to just one platform. They build their own website as a central hub and then use marketplaces or social media to drive traffic. POD is great for supplementary income or testing designs. Curated sites are something to aim for as your career progresses. Digital platforms are essential if your primary medium is digital. Think about where your ideal collector spends time online and where your art feels most at home.
Getting Eyes on Your Art: Marketing Yourself & Building Community
Okay, you've got your art ready and listed. Now, how do you get people to actually see it? Building an online presence is like tending a garden. It takes consistent effort, but the rewards can be beautiful. It's not just about shouting into the void; it's about finding your people and connecting with them.
Be Active on Social Media
Share your process, your finished work, your studio space. Engage with comments. Use relevant hashtags. Show your personality! People connect with the artist as much as the art. As mentioned before, mix it up – show time-lapses, behind-the-scenes, share your art inspirations or process helps people connect with the work on a deeper level. Don't just post finished pieces; share time-lapses, studio tours, Q&A sessions, or even just snippets of your daily creative life. People love seeing the human behind the art. Consider platform specifics: Instagram Reels and TikTok are great for short process videos, Pinterest is powerful for visual discovery and driving traffic, and Facebook Groups can help build niche communities.
Content Ideas for Social Media & Email:
- Process Shots/Videos: Show your work in progress. Time-lapses of a painting coming to life, photos of your materials (Art_Supplies_Close_Up-29589096), or short clips of you sketching or mixing paint (Artist Mixing Paint on Palette).
- Studio Tours: Give people a peek into your creative space (Matisse_Red_Studio). It builds connection and demystifies the process.
- Behind-the-Scenes: Share the less glamorous parts – packaging orders, visiting a supplier, setting up for a show.
- Finished Work: High-quality photos and videos of your completed pieces. Include detail shots and lifestyle mockups.
- Inspiration Sources: What are your art inspirations? Share photos of nature, objects, or other art that sparks your creativity.
- Q&A Sessions: Go live or post a story asking people to submit questions about your art, process, or selling online.
- Polls & Quizzes: Engage your audience by asking their opinions on new work, colors, or art-related topics.
- Customer Spotlights: Share photos of your art in collectors' homes (with their permission!). This provides social proof.
- Material Spotlights: Talk about the quality materials you use and why they are important.
- Storytelling: Share the narrative behind a specific piece or series.
- Announcements: New work, upcoming sales, blog posts, etc.
- Personal Updates: Share snippets of your life outside the studio (pets, hobbies, travels) to build a more personal connection.
Build an Email List
Social media algorithms change. Your email list is yours. Offer a signup on your website. Send out occasional newsletters showing new work, process shots, or upcoming shows (even online ones). It's a direct line to people who are genuinely interested. Treat your subscribers like VIPs – offer them early access to new collections or behind-the-scenes content. Craft compelling subject lines and consider automated email sequences for new subscribers to introduce yourself and your work.
Engage and Connect Genuinely
Beyond just posting, actively engage with others online. Comment on other artists' work, interact with people who comment on yours, and participate in relevant online communities. Building genuine relationships is far more effective than just broadcasting. Share your story, your struggles, your triumphs. Authenticity resonates. It's not just about networking; it's about finding your tribe.
Consider Paid Advertising (Carefully)
Once you have a better understanding of your audience, platforms like Instagram or Facebook ads can help reach more people. Start small, test different approaches, and track your results. Don't just throw money at it hoping for the best. Paid ads can be a powerful tool, but they require strategy and monitoring.
Build Your Artist Brand
Your brand is more than just a logo; it's the overall feeling and message you convey. Ensure your visuals, descriptions, and communication style are consistent across all platforms and your website. What makes your art unique? What's your story? Clearly defining and communicating your brand helps collectors connect with you and your work on a deeper level. This includes having a consistent visual style in your photography and online presentation.
Basic SEO for Artists
SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is simply the practice of making your online content more visible to search engines like Google. For artists, this means making it easier for people searching for art like yours to find you. This involves using relevant keywords in your titles, descriptions, and website content (like we touched on earlier). Think about what someone would type into Google if they were looking for your specific style or subject matter. Using clear, descriptive titles for your artwork and writing detailed descriptions that include these terms can make a big difference. It's not about tricking the system, but about clearly communicating what your art is about so the right people can discover it.
Use Analytics to Understand Your Audience
Most platforms (your website, social media, marketplaces) offer some form of analytics. Look at this data! Which pieces get the most views? Where are your visitors coming from? What content resonates most? Use these insights to refine your marketing strategy, create more of what your audience likes, and focus your efforts where they are most effective.
Set Realistic Goals
Selling art online takes time and effort. Don't expect overnight success. Set small, achievable goals (e.g., list 5 pieces this month, post on social media 3 times a week, send one newsletter). Celebrate small wins and learn from setbacks. It's a journey, not a destination.
The Less Glamorous Bits: Shipping, Taxes, Customer Service, and More
Ah, the necessary evils. Selling art online isn't just about clicking 'publish'. There's backend work involved that can feel like a chore, but it's essential for running a legitimate and professional business. Sometimes it feels like wrestling an octopus while trying to file your taxes blindfolded.
Copyright and Licensing
Protect your work! Understand the basics of copyright for artists. In most countries, you automatically own the copyright to your original artwork as soon as it's created. You can add a copyright notice (© [Your Name] [Year]) to your website and images (though watermarking can be tricky). If you're selling prints or licensing your images (like on POD sites), be clear about the terms. This protects you and your buyers. If you're concerned about infringement, you can look into formal registration in your country, though this isn't always necessary for basic protection. Be clear in your terms of service about how your images can and cannot be used.
Dealing with Infringement: What if you find someone using your image without permission? First, document everything (screenshots, URLs). Then, send a polite but firm cease and desist letter (templates are available online). If that doesn't work, you may need to consider legal action, though this can be costly. Sometimes, a simple DM or email pointing out the infringement is enough.
Shipping is a Big Deal
How will you get your art safely from your studio to your buyer's wall? This requires sturdy packaging, reliable shipping carriers, and clear pricing. Will you offer free shipping? Charge a flat rate? Calculate based on location and size? Be transparent about art shipping costs explained for buyers. For larger pieces, this can get complicated and expensive. Consider selling prints (why buy art prints?) as a more easily shippable option. Always use tracking and consider adding insurance, especially for higher-value pieces. I once had a piece get lost in transit, and the stress was immense. Insurance saved me.
Packaging Matters: Don't skimp on packaging materials! Use sturdy boxes specifically designed for shipping art or double-box your work. Invest in good quality bubble wrap, foam board, or glassine paper to protect the surface. Corner protectors are a must for framed pieces. For canvases, consider building a simple wooden crate for maximum protection. It might seem like an extra cost, but a damaged piece is far more expensive and stressful to deal with.
Choosing Carriers: Research different shipping carriers (USPS, FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc.) for domestic and international shipping. Compare costs, reliability, and insurance options. Some specialize in art shipping.
International Sales: Selling internationally opens up a huge market, but adds complexity. You'll need to calculate international shipping costs, understand customs forms and duties (which the buyer usually pays, but you need to be aware of), and potentially deal with currency conversion. Clearly state your international shipping policy and who is responsible for customs fees.
Taxes (Ugh)
Yes, you have to deal with taxes. Keep meticulous records of your income and expenses. Consult with an accountant if needed. This isn't the fun part, but it's essential for running a legitimate business. Ignoring it will only cause bigger headaches down the line. It feels like trying to solve a complex puzzle while blindfolded, but it's necessary.
Customer Service Matters
Respond promptly to inquiries. Be polite and professional. Handle issues (like shipping damage or returns) gracefully. Happy customers are repeat customers and will recommend you to others. Having a clear return and refund policy outlined on your website or platform is crucial for managing expectations and building trust.
Handling Issues: What if a buyer says the color looks different on their screen? Explain that screen calibration varies and offer a return (if that's your policy). If a piece arrives damaged, apologize sincerely, ask for photos, and offer a refund or replacement (if possible). Turning a negative situation into a positive one through excellent service can build immense loyalty. Don't forget to ask happy customers for testimonials or reviews – these are gold for building credibility!
Insurance
Consider insuring your studio, inventory, and potentially shipments. Accidents happen, and having insurance can provide peace of mind and protect your livelihood, especially as your practice grows and you accumulate more valuable work or supplies.
Online Auctions and Limited Drops
Beyond standard listings, consider selling through online art auctions (some platforms specialize in this, like Ultimate Guide to Online Art Auctions (Beyond the Big Houses)) or doing limited-time 'drops' of new collections on your own site or social media. Auctions can create excitement and potentially higher prices, while drops create urgency and reward your most engaged followers. These are strategies to explore once you have a solid audience.
Artist CV and Bio
For your own website and curated platforms, a professional artist CV (Curriculum Vitae) and bio are essential. Your CV lists your exhibitions, education, awards, and collections. Your bio tells your story, explains your artistic journey, and provides context for your work. These build credibility and help collectors understand your background and achievements.
My Personal Takeaway: It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Selling art online is a journey. There will be highs (that first sale!) and lows (weeks of silence). It requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Don't get discouraged by slow starts. Keep creating, keep sharing, and keep refining your approach.
I remember periods where I felt like I was shouting into an empty room, posting new work with no likes or comments. It's easy to feel invisible. But then, out of the blue, an inquiry comes in, or someone leaves a heartfelt comment about how a piece resonated with them. Those moments fuel the persistence. It's also okay to experiment. Try one platform, see how it goes. Try another. See what resonates with your audience and what feels sustainable for you. Remember, the goal isn't just to sell anything, but to sell your art to people who truly connect with it. That connection is the real reward. It's about building a sustainable practice that allows you to keep doing what you love – making art.
FAQ: Selling Art Online
Here are some common questions I hear (or asked myself!) about selling art online:
Q: Which online platform is best for selling art?
A: There's no single "best" platform. It depends on your art style, price point, target audience, and how much control you want. Marketplaces offer traffic but have fees and competition. Your own website offers control but requires you to drive traffic. POD is great for prints and merchandise with minimal effort. Curated sites offer prestige but are harder to get into. Many artists use a combination of platforms.
Q: How often should I post on social media?
A: Consistency is more important than frequency. Aim for a schedule you can realistically maintain, whether that's daily, a few times a week, or even weekly. Focus on engaging content that shows your process, personality, and finished work.
Q: Should I offer prints of all my work?
A: Not necessarily. You might choose to offer prints only for certain pieces that are popular or lend themselves well to reproduction. Offering limited edition prints can also add value and exclusivity. Consider which pieces are most popular or suitable for reproduction.
Q: How do I handle commissions online?
A: Clearly outline your commission process on your website or profile. Include details on how to inquire, pricing structure, timeline, payment schedule (e.g., deposit required), and your communication process. Having a contract is highly recommended, especially for larger projects (commissioning a custom painting).
Q: How do I deal with copyright?
A: In most countries, you automatically own the copyright to your original artwork as soon as it's created. You can add a copyright notice (© [Your Name] [Year]) to your website and images (though watermarking can be tricky). If you're concerned about infringement, you can look into formal registration in your country, though this isn't always necessary for basic protection. Be clear in your terms of service about how your images can and cannot be used.
Q: What's the best way to announce new work?
A: Announce new work across your platforms! Post sneak peeks on social media, send an email to your list, update your website, and consider running a small ad campaign. Build anticipation before the official launch.
Q: How do I handle returns and refunds?
A: Have a clear, written policy. Decide on your terms (e.g., returns accepted within 14 days, buyer pays return shipping unless damaged). Be prepared to handle damaged items by offering a refund, replacement (if possible), or store credit. Good communication is key when dealing with returns.
Q: Is it worth getting insurance for my art business?
A: For many artists, yes. Insurance can cover damage to your work (both finished and in progress), supplies, studio space, and even shipments. As your business grows and the value of your work increases, the peace of mind and financial protection insurance offers can be invaluable.
Q: How do I balance creating art with the demands of online selling and marketing?
A: This is a constant challenge! Try to schedule dedicated time for both. Batch tasks – maybe spend one day taking photos, another writing descriptions, and a few hours each week on marketing. Don't aim for perfection, aim for consistency. It's okay if some days are more business-focused and others are purely creative.
Q: How should I deal with negative feedback or comments online?
A: It stings, I know. Take a deep breath. Assess if the feedback is constructive or just mean. If it's constructive, consider it. If it's just negativity, you can often ignore, hide, or delete it. Respond calmly and professionally if a response is necessary, but don't get into arguments. Your online space is yours to curate.
Q: Should I sell originals, prints, or both?
A: This depends on your goals and art. Selling originals offers higher price points and exclusivity. Prints make your work more accessible to a wider audience. Many artists do both, using prints for broader reach and originals for higher-value sales and collector relationships. Consider your production capacity and target market.
Q: How important is an artist CV or bio for online sales?
A: Very important, especially on your own website or curated platforms. It builds credibility, shows your experience, and helps collectors feel more confident in their purchase, particularly for higher-value pieces.
Q: What about accessibility for my online art presence?
A: It's important! Use alt text for all your images (describing the artwork for visually impaired visitors), ensure your website is navigable with a keyboard, and use clear, readable fonts. Making your site accessible broadens your potential audience and is simply good practice.
Selling art online is a continuous learning process, but hopefully, this guide gives you a solid starting point and some insights from someone who's navigating it too.