Supporting artists locally and around the world is more accessible than ever before in the digital age. Online platforms make it easier for more people to find and buy art and handmade pieces, opening up the buying process to everyone. Galleries often offer prints or help artists sell originals online. E-commerce platforms and sites focused on small businesses make it simple to discover new artists and start collecting. Here’s what you need to know as you shop online for art.
Purchasing Art Online Directly Supports Artists
One of the best ways to invest in the arts and help creators remain part of the greater community is to purchase art online from an artist. Many artists still work full-time jobs outside of the arts, which can make creating pieces or engaging with their audience a challenge.
Making art can be expensive and involve much work, alongside a person’s other responsibilities. One of the biggest benefits of buying art online directly from an artist’s website, through reputable online stores or local galleries, is that it helps them get to a point where they can fully focus on their creative work and more easily share their knowledge with others.
What to Know When Shopping for Art Online
The great news is that there are many incredible stores and local galleries to choose from when you’re shopping for art online. More people have realized how accessible art is, and they want to experience the beauty and joy of discovery for themselves. And in fact, today art sales are up on the affordable end. Here are a few reasons why, and what to know before you buy.
Artist Accessibility
Online availability makes it easy to learn about local, national and international artists. No matter what type of art you’re drawn to, you can search for examples online to find artists near you (or farther away) who create those works.
Check the Authenticity
Get to know the artist or collective before making any purchases. Artists often have portfolios displaying their works and telling their stories. Do your research and get to know them, learning what their work looks like. Check in with local galleries or collectors’ information hubs to learn as much as you can. And always make sure you know where the piece came from, especially for a series of works, or works limited in number.
Shop Reputable Sites
Before you buy art online, check the artist’s or shop’s reputation through review sites and other means. Check the site’s veracity, and make sure they have secure payment options. Depending on the size of your purchase, you may need to work with your bank ahead of time.
Your Purchase May Support a Greater Cause
If supporting various causes (besides artists and the arts) interests you, note that many artists choose to support their local communities in various ways. From volunteering and shared gardens to disaster donation relief, artists give back in various ways. Check their websites or social media pages to learn how your online art purchases may support and build community.
Keep in mind, there are multiple types of art available for purchase. Some galleries or platforms specialize in a certain style or media, while others make all kinds of art available to the public and to collectors who are ready to buy.
Buy Art Online From Local Northwest Artists
Whether you’re near us in Beaverton, the Metro or anywhere in the world, Grey Raven Gallery is proud to offer art online for purchase from some of the finest artists in the Pacific Northwest. A portion of the proceeds will fund free online art education for children. Make plans to visit us soon.
