Online Art Galleries
The internet has provided a whole new avenue for people who sell art, and many have set up shop exclusively online. They are very different types of business from brick and mortar galleries where you can see the art, talk to the dealer and walk out with a purchase.
If the consumer knows what they want, know what prices should be for the work, and is savvy, there are some bargains to be had online. But it is also an area where the novice would be wise to do a lot of research. If a person doesnt know the difference between an original work on canvas and a giclee print, they could lose alot of money and not even end up with a piece they want to hang on their wall. People who deal in vintage photographs or antique prints or even original oil paintings offer up art with ease, and if youve done your homework, youll be fine. The internet has also become an excellent way to search out artists you already collect. Many top galleries also sell on line and comparing prices as well as what is available makes life much easier than phone calls and tramping to galleries all over town to see pieces. Online art galleries can definitely be a convenience but only if the buyer is aware of the pitfalls. Dont worry about checking references, for possible online complaints or other issues. Its all a part of doing online business.
Just like with brick and mortar stores, an online art gallery that is thriving one day will be gone the next. Its just the way of the economy. Besides, in the gallery world, dealers dont usually accept returns from purchases. Its the same online.
