Whether you’re an avid collector or a newbie on the buying art online scene, you need to read this post thoroughly and understand every single aspect of it. I’m going to give you a quick lesson on buying art online. I’ve heard it all from collectors that have been duped into buying unauthentic or downright cheap art with no value. Here’s a quick lesson for you.
Things To Look For When Buying Art Online
Here’s a list of things you must look for when buying art online. Don’t take this topic lightly at all. If you’re serious about your art then you need to understand everything that I’ve listed below. Let me just get right into it…
Is It Original
First off, is the art that you’re purchasing original or is it a replica? Some artists out there (believe it or not) promote their art as being original when it’s nothing but a printed copy of their work. They’re sneaky enough to try and sell it to you through the use of wording tactics. Here’s a couple of screenshots that show exactly what I’m talking about.
For starters, I’ve hidden the artwork, artists name and anything that allows you to see who they are because I don’t want to be called out for being the whistleblower on anyone. In any event, you can see that the title clearly states, “Original” in the title. Even though it says “print” as well. Some people may think that this in a 100% original piece of art that they are purchasing.
This one does the same, although it does show that it’s numbered which should make you think that it’s not an original. You need to look out for these things. You’ll notice that this artist has their art listed with only 1 available too. When in fact there is likely more than one available.
Can You Contact The Artist
I always make myself available to all my collectors. They can contact me anytime. If you come across an artist that doesn’t allow you to contact them or one that you can’t get in touch with, well, you better be skeptical about it!
Does It Come With A Warranty
When you’re buying art online, you want to make sure that the art comes with a warranty. You also want to make sure that there is a 100% returnable guarantee associated with that art being sold on the website. Some websites simply don’t offer this type of warranty when buying online. every puchase that’s made through my website is 100% backed with a warranty. There are no questions about it. Simple as that really. If a site you’re shopping on doesn’t offer you the same, then you should run like hell!
Are You Buying Direct
You have to be aware of whether or not you’re buying directly from the artists themselves or from a distributor. If you’re dealing with a distributor, you should ask that they provide contact information about the artist to further verify the piece. I typically only sell my pieces direct unless they are sold in an official gallery that represents me or it’s an aftermarket sale. Buying direct is the best way to go if you ask me.
Is The Site Secure
This one is important for your financial security. If you’re shopping on a website and you get to the checkout and you don’t see that the site is on a secure domain, then don’t buy! Here’s how to tell if the website is secure. If secure, there will be a green lock and the site will start with https:// instead of the typical http://. This is super important as it adds an extra layer of protection, keeping your credit card information.
Are There Sales
If you go to a website and all you see is original items that are for sale then you should be concerned. There should be a providence of past sales by an artist if they are selling online. I’m not saying that works should list prices, but sold pieces should be visible on the site. We have a sold section that we display all our sold artwork in.
Gallery Affiliations
Does the artist have affiliations with galleries, and a proper biography? If you don’t see any galleries listed on the website or any biography of the artist then you should question what it is that you’re buying. Mosts artists that are serious about selling are not afraid to share a personal biography with you that showcases their accomplishments.
Art Location
Now, I know that there are many artists all across the globe that successfully paint. However, if you’re buying are online, you need to be aware of where that are is located that you’re buying. If you’re buying artwork of an artist that states he lives in the United States yet the art is being shipped from overseas, that should be a huge red flag.
Social Proof
If you come across an artist that simply doesn’t exist online socially then I would think twice about purchasing art from them online. Why? Well, the reason I say this is because almost everyone out there has a Facebook account and Instagram account. Unless an artist has passed away, you should be able to find them online in a matter of minutes.
End Rant….
Well, that about sums up a lot of the reasons why I think you need to know what you’re doing when it comes to buying art online. Now, if you have any other questions you can come to me and ask. One thing I want to end with is that EVERY PIECE of original art on my site is 100% original. I prefer to sell through my own website and I do this to protect myself and my collectors. If you’re looking for a piece, feel free to browse the online store and buy some art today!