The Ultimate Guide to Buying Art Online: From Novice to Connoisseur

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of art collecting? Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned art enthusiast looking to expand your collection, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying art online. Let's dive in and discover how to find, evaluate, and purchase the perfect pieces to suit your taste and budget.

Understanding the Online Art Market

The internet has revolutionized the way we buy and sell art, making it more accessible than ever before. Online art marketplaces have opened up a world of possibilities, allowing collectors to browse and purchase works from artists and galleries across the globe. According to a report by Art Basel and UBS, online art sales reached $12.4 billion in 2020, accounting for 25% of the global art market [1].

Benefits of Buying Art Online:

- Vast selection of artworks from various styles, mediums, and price points

- Convenience of browsing and purchasing from anywhere, anytime

- Ability to discover emerging artists and unique pieces

- Often lower prices compared to traditional galleries

- Easy comparison of artworks and prices across multiple platforms

Choosing the Right Platform

With numerous online art marketplaces available, it's essential to choose the right platform for your needs. Here are some popular options to consider:

1. Singulart (www.singulart.com ): Offers a curated selection of contemporary art from emerging and established artists worldwide.

2. Artsy (www.artsy.net ): Features a wide range of artworks, from contemporary pieces to old masters, with partnerships with leading galleries and auction houses.

3. Saatchi Art (www.saatchiart.com ): Known for its vast collection of original art and prints from emerging artists.

4. 1stDibs (www.1stdibs.com ): Specializes in high-end art, antiques, and design objects from top dealers around the world.

When choosing a platform, consider factors such as the range of artworks available, pricing, shipping options, and customer reviews.

Navigating Online Art Galleries

Once you've selected a platform, it's time to start exploring. Here are some tips to help you navigate online art galleries effectively:

1. Use filters: Most platforms allow you to filter artworks by medium, style, price range, and size. This can help you narrow down your options and find pieces that match your preferences.

2. Read artist bios: Learning about the artist's background, education, and exhibitions can provide valuable context for their work.

3. Examine high-resolution images: Look for platforms that offer zoom features and multiple angles of the artwork.

4. Check authenticity: Reputable platforms should provide certificates of authenticity for original artworks.

5. Understand the pricing: Be aware of any additional costs, such as shipping, framing, or taxes.

Evaluating Artworks Online

Assessing art online can be challenging, but these strategies can help you make informed decisions:

1. Study the details: Pay attention to the artwork's dimensions, materials, and condition.

2. Consider the artist's trajectory: Research the artist's past sales, exhibitions, and critical reception to gauge their potential for future value.

3. Compare prices: Look at similar works by the same artist or comparable artists to ensure fair pricing.

4. Read reviews and testimonials: Check what other buyers have to say about their experience with the artist or platform.

5. Seek expert opinions: Many online platforms offer curatorial services or art advisory to help guide your choices.

Making the Purchase

Once you've found the perfect piece, it's time to make your purchase. Here are some important considerations:

1. Understand the return policy: Make sure you're comfortable with the platform's return and refund terms.

2. Secure payment methods: Use trusted payment options and look for secure checkout processes.

3. Insurance and shipping: Check if the artwork is insured during transit and understand the shipping timeline.

4. Documentation: Ensure you receive all necessary documentation, including the certificate of authenticity and provenance (if applicable).

Caring for Your New Artwork

After your purchase arrives, proper care is essential to preserve its value and beauty:

1. Handling: Always handle artwork with clean, dry hands or wear cotton gloves.

2. Display: Avoid hanging art in direct sunlight or areas with high humidity.

3. Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to gently remove dust. For more thorough cleaning, consult a professional.

4. Framing: Consider professional framing to protect and enhance your artwork.

5. Documentation: Keep all records, receipts, and certificates in a safe place.

Building Your Collection

As you continue to explore the world of online art buying, consider these tips for building a meaningful collection:

1. Develop your eye: Visit museums, galleries, and art fairs to refine your tastes and understanding of different art styles.

2. Set a budget: Decide how much you're willing to invest in art annually and stick to it.

3. Mix it up: Combine works from established artists with pieces from emerging talents to create a diverse collection.

4. Follow your passion: Collect art that resonates with you personally, rather than solely focusing on potential investment value.

5. Stay informed: Subscribe to art newsletters, follow art influencers on social media, and attend online art events to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and opportunities.

Conclusion

Buying art online opens up a world of possibilities for both novice and experienced collectors. By understanding the market, choosing the right platforms, and developing your eye for quality and value, you can build a collection that brings joy and beauty to your life for years to come. Remember, the most important aspect of collecting art is to choose pieces that speak to you personally. Happy collecting!

External Authoritative Sources:

1. Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report: https://www.artbasel.com/about/initiatives/the-art-market

2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art - Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History: https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/

3. Artsy's Guide to Collecting: https://www.artsy.net/collecting

4. Forbes - Art & Money: https://www.forbes.com/sites-artmoney/

5. The Art Newspaper: https://www.theartnewspaper.com/

6. Artist Dimitri Likissas : www.dimitrilikissas.com