Art, in all its diverse forms, has the power to captivate hearts, stir emotions, and ignite conversations. For both artists and art enthusiasts, the realms of selling art and commissioning art to sell represent unique avenues that intersect at creativity and commerce.

“Mother” a piece by Damien from Melbourne, Australia.

What does it mean to sell art?

“Ben did a superlative job on the mural over the archway of my dining room to living room!” Mural by Ben from Denver, United States.

Selling art is the timeless dance between an artist and their audience. It’s about curating a collection that reflects the artist’s vision and resonates with those who encounter it. Artists who sell their creations directly engage with the market, establishing a direct connection with buyers. This direct-to-consumer approach allows artists to have greater control over their work, from pricing to presentation.

One of the perks of selling art lies in the freedom to choose the pieces that make it to the market. Artists can showcase their personal favourites, experiment with various styles, and develop a signature aesthetic. This process empowers artists to tell their stories through their creations, building a narrative that invites buyers to share in the artistic journey.

What does it mean to commission art?

A I R Jordan by Andrew from Bassendean, Australia.

On the flip side, commissioning art to sell adds an intriguing layer to the art world’s canvas. This collaborative process involves a client seeking a custom piece from an artist. It’s a partnership resulting in a tailored creation that aligns with both the artist’s skills and the client’s vision.

Commissioning art to sell often involves a dialogue between the artist and the client, where ideas are exchanged, preferences are considered, and the artist’s expertise comes into play. This symbiotic relationship adds a personalised touch to the art, making it more than just a visually appealing piece—it becomes a shared experience.

selling art
“Risa did a phenomenal job of bring to life my request for an ancestral family sketch art! The final product in-person is beautiful and has perfectly captured my entire family. Absolutely brilliant!” Sketch artwork by Risa from Melbourne, Australia.

While both selling art and commissioning art to sell involve the transaction of creative works, the key difference lies in the origin of the pieces. Selling art is an independent act by the artist, putting forth a selection of completed works for potential buyers. On the other hand, commissioning art to sell is a collaborative venture initiated by a client seeking a bespoke creation.

selling art
Rhino by Dawid from London, United Kingdom.

Whether an artist chooses to independently curate their collection or collaborates with clients on commissioned pieces, the goal remains the same: to share the beauty and resonance of art with the world.

Learn more about commissioning and selling art through our other resources!

selling art
Untitled by Damian from Melbourne, Australia.