How to sell art online: platforms, website and social media

Online art sales are no longer exotic: collectors browse on websites and messaging apps, then buy after talking to the gallery. The job of online is to bring people to that conversation.

Your own website

The foundation: artist and work pages, clear prices or an "ask for price" button, a fast reply on WhatsApp or email. Add the arguments: exhibitions, press, market data.

Marketplaces and aggregators

International platforms for galleries give reach but charge subscriptions and/or commission, and the buyer remains "their" customer. Use them as a shop window and build the relationship yourself.

Online auctions

Good for the secondary market and for testing demand. A public result becomes a benchmark for future prices, so only consign works you are confident about.

Social media and messaging

Instagram and WhatsApp are where most purchase conversations start. Post process, stories behind works and "just arrived".

Building trust online

• Certificate of authenticity and clear shipping.
• A chance to see the work in person or on video.
• Transparent information on the artist's market — sales, interest, museums. That is what Art Index provides.