Building an artist's secondary market and auction presence

When an artist's works appear at auction, the market is maturing: people resell them, not just buy them from the gallery. But rushing is risky.

When it's time

• Steady gallery sales and a waiting list.
• Collectors ready to support the bidding.
• Institutional recognition: shows, publications.

Preparing the lot

Consign a strong, typical work of good size and quality. A realistic estimate matters more than a high one: a bought-in lot or a weak result becomes a public benchmark for years.

How the secondary market affects the primary

A good result confirms gallery prices and attracts new buyers; a weak one makes collectors hesitate. That is why galleries often manage which works go to auction and when.

Track your artists' markets

Auction sales, public interest and media are easier to follow in one place. On the Pro plan, Art Index for galleries sends alerts on your artists' auction sales and a monthly report.