How to buy artwork online

With plenty of artwork available online today, art lovers use this new found market to secure masterpieces and home decor art at incredible prices. If you love to buy art, the Internet can be a valuable resource, saving you time and money. But first, learn to shop for art online wisely and be careful when choosing artwork. Use these tips to find quality artwork while keeping spending to a minimum.

Discover New Artists

The Internet offers a great opportunity to explore artwork and discover new artists. Use the power of search to find hundreds of artists. Then surf through their available paintings to find the styles that appeal to you. Ask questions about the artists by email or phone. Some artists or art retail companies use experienced art consultants to answer questions. Take advantage of this service when available.

Keep in mind that there are thousands of new artists who are very talented. Since they’re just starting out, they might offer their paintings for far less than a famous artist. Some original paintings by new artists can increase in value tremendously over time, as the artist becomes better known in the art world.

Use search engines to find art by certain keywords such as: artist name, type of art (landscapes, people, antiques, flowers, children, animals), date or time period of artwork, and medium (watercolor, acrylic, oil).

Authentication – Is It Important?

Buying art online is similar to buying jewelry or any other high-ticket retail item. Whether authentication is important or not is really up to you as the buyer. A good rule of thumb is if you plan to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on a piece of art for investment purposes, then you’ll want to be sure it’s authentic. Use an authenticity service that you feel comfortable with and make sure the painting is not a reproduction or digital reproduction.

Also, consider if having original pieces of art is important to you. Some art lovers admire the detail, love, and experience put into a sole piece of art. They are very willing to pay more for original paintings, even if only for pleasure.

If you want artwork simply for decorating your home and have a limited budget, digital reproductions are available online at very affordable prices. These reproductions look similar to the originals, but have been reproduced for mass distribution.

Visit Local Galleries

You can also find great new artists and ideas by visiting your local art galleries. Take pen and paper with you to write down artists or the names of paintings that catch your eye. Then go online to search for these artists to see their other paintings.

Buying artwork online can be an enjoyable experience if you take time to explore all the beautiful paintings and find artwork that fits your style and budget.

Buying artwork online can be a convenient and exciting way to add to your art collection. Here are some steps to help you navigate the process:

1. Determine your preferences: Before diving into the online art world, take some time to explore different art styles, artists, and genres. Figure out the type of artwork you’re interested in, whether it’s paintings, sculptures, photography, or other forms.
2. Research reputable online art platforms: Look for well-established and reputable online art marketplaces or galleries. Some popular platforms include Artsy, Saatchi Art, Etsy, and Fine Art America. These platforms usually have a wide range of artworks and offer various features and services.
3. Explore the online art marketplaces: Visit the websites of the online art platforms you’ve identified and explore their collections. Browse through different artists and artworks, read descriptions, and look at images to get a sense of what’s available. Many platforms allow you to filter artworks by style, medium, size, price range, and other criteria.
4. Learn about the artists: When you find a piece you like, take some time to research the artist. Look for information about their background, training, exhibitions, and reviews. Understanding the artist’s story and reputation can give you confidence in your purchase.
5. Check the authenticity and condition: It’s crucial to ensure the artwork is authentic and in good condition. Reputable online platforms typically provide information about the artwork’s authenticity, including certificates of authenticity or guarantees. Additionally, carefully read the condition reports or descriptions to understand any potential issues or restoration work.
6. Read reviews and ratings: Look for reviews or ratings of the online platform and individual sellers, if applicable. This can help you gauge the experiences of previous buyers and assess the platform’s reliability and customer service.
7. Check shipping and return policies: Review the shipping policies of the platform or seller to understand the costs, estimated delivery times, and whether they offer insurance for the artwork during transit. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the return policy in case the artwork doesn’t meet your expectations or is damaged upon arrival.
8. Ask questions and seek clarification: If you have any questions or concerns about the artwork, reach out to the seller or platform. Most reputable platforms have customer support or contact options available. Clarify any doubts you may have before making a purchase.
9. Make your purchase: Once you’ve found the artwork you want to buy and feel confident in your decision, proceed with the purchase. Follow the online platform’s instructions to add the artwork to your cart and complete the checkout process. Provide the necessary payment information and ensure you receive a confirmation of your purchase.
10. Secure packaging and installation: When the artwork arrives, carefully unpack it and inspect it for any damage. If everything looks satisfactory, you can start thinking about how and where to display your new acquisition. Consider professional installation services if needed, especially for larger or more complex pieces.

Remember to set a budget, compare prices, and take your time to find the right artwork that resonates with you. Buying art online can be an enjoyable experience, and with due diligence, you can build a remarkable art collection.