The Internet offers a huge potential for growth in many spheres of business and art is no exception. We are currently seeing vast changes in not only the different ways in which artworks are sold but also in what type of people buy it and for what reasons.

The Internet has for example empowered the public, as opposed to a handful of connoisseurs, to dabble in all forms of art. Equally, artists themselves now have their desired level playing field in which to market their creations in online galleries and through Stock Photos & Images. Cultural life too has been enriched by these new developments.

The new online sales platforms represent an exciting opportunity for emerging buyers and artists to meet up in the new market places and help shape their future development. Art sales platforms, social media and personal websites all offer different approaches to selling art online, so here are a few tips for artists wanting to make money from their work in the continually expanding online markets.

Don’t go completely online

Don’t think of the Internet as a place to offload work that you consider inferior, and don’t be tempted to try and undercut regular, established gallery prices. Your online activities should be considered as a complementary tool to support your offline efforts, rather than as an alternative to them.

Be proactive

Don’t just stick to the one online sales platform but sign up for a variety of different ones. These will represent a kaleidoscope of different choices for buyers, a bit like the traditional arts and crafts fair. Each of them will work slightly differently and art buyers will be attracted to them for various personal reasons, so keep your net spread wide. There are online galleries, networking tools and industry networks for you to choose from and combine in many ways.

Face to face sales remain paramount

Most buyers who prefer to get their artworks offline cite as the main reason that they much prefer to handle the work before committing to purchase it. So the lesson from this is to continue exhibiting your work in bricks-and-mortar spaces like your studio, in addition to your online initiatives.

Keep your information fresh

Unlike in the traditional, offline markets, there are no online sales teams to mediate between artist and buyer. Virtual buyers therefore are forced to rely on the information that the artist provides being accurate and up-to-date. Buyers cite the quality of the image and the personal information on the website as the most important factors when they buy online, so make sure that both are exemplary.

Whatever platform you choose to sell on, assume that visitors are completely ignorant about you and your work, or art in general for that matter. Keep your language simple and to the point, avoid pretentious talk and explain what a potential buyer has to do to purchase the piece. If people already know about you they can skip to other sections, and the rest can contact you through the information you provide if they need more details.