How much time and attention do you give to what’s on the minds of potential buyers of your artwork? If you’re interested in improving your art sales it’s a good idea to know what kinds of questions art buyers might ask themselves before they decide to buy your art. In this article, you will find over 20 frequently asked questions art buyers consider.
I hope you enjoy reading the questions. They will prepare you for different situations before and during a sale and ultimately improve your confidence and art sales.
* What attracts me to this work of art?
* Is it among the artists’ best works?
* Does the artwork continue to engage me no matter how often I view it?
* Will my spouse/family agree with my choice?
* Does it make me feel relaxed? Energized? Happy?
* Is it intellectually inspiring?
* Do the colors complement my decor now and after I redecorate?
* Does the art remind me of my cultural heritage, favorite childhood memories, or pleasant travels?
* Where will I place it?
* If we place this work of art in our company does it reflect our business mission?
* How well is it constructed?
* Does it fit my budget?
* What is it about the artist’s vision that interests / impresses me most?
* Does the artist’s professional track record/resume/reputation justify the price?
* Does the purchase come with a return policy?
* Has the work of art been appraised?
* If I purchase more than one artwork will the artist give me a special price?
* Does this piece fit into my existing art collection?
* What is the exact quantity in this “limited” edition?
* Does this print come with a Certificate of Authenticity?
* Am I buying the art because I feel pressured into it?
* What are the arguments against buying it?
* Should I get a second opinion?
* Will this purchase prove to be a good choice many years from now?
Doug Sheer Shares Important Information
Doug Sheer douglasisheer.com is an artist who also serves on the board of directors and the programming and exhibition committees of the Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild and heads its Byrdcliffe Forum. He is President, Co-founder, and Chairman Emeritus at Artists Talk On Art.
Doug shares this interesting bit of information: “When the late artist, Elaine Marinoff interviewed the late gallery owner, Ivan Karp of OK Harris (and former aide to Leo Castelli) at Artists Talk on Art (1990) he cited numerous obstacles to selling art that included the competing desires the couple might have such as a pool, a second home, investments and more… even if the two were ‘eye to eye’ about the artist and the work.”
I wish you many joyful sales!
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The first question I invariably get is “How long did it take you to paint this?” I’ve heard artists say a little snarky response like “4 years of art school and 20 years of experience.” For some reason, many “lookers” as that question, like they want to know how much you charge by the hour. I paint quickly and typically give a vague response like – I like to work wet into wet so I usually complete a painting in a weekend. Can you give suggestions for a better response?
Thank you!
It depends on the overall conversation and situation. The “snarky” reply with a warm smile followed by more detailed information about the artwork may be quite appropriate. However, if this is the only question they ask, one wonders if they are truly interested in acquiring your art. I’m curious to know if anyopne else reading this offers you a suggestion.
Renee, I posted this article on FBk and this is what one of my new buyers added. ” I ask some of these questions. And I’d add one or two more: if I don’t make a decision immediately, how much and how often do I find myself thinking about it when I’m not in front of it? How viscerally? Usually, the ones I buy speak to me deeply in some way…I don’t care if they go with my decor! Once years ago I ignored that voice, and have regretted it ever since…I still think about that painting!”
Excellent! Thank you Carol!
Thanks for adding this. I’ve had people come back for a painting that was sold after they did not take it. Not a good feeling on either side.
Thank you Renee. These pointers help us not take it personally when a piece doesn’t sell.