Art sourcing for interior clients

Interior designers, property developers, home stylers, offices, cafes and hotels, plus private homeowners.

A margin on artworks you buy and supply, or commission from the artist or gallery. Some dealers add a fee for consulting, framing coordination or installation.

• Understanding of art and interior style
• Client service and presenting ideas
• Organising delivery and installation
• Negotiating with artists and framers

• Public liability insurance, and cover for artworks in transit or at client sites
• Written agreements with artists and clients covering price, deposits and returns
• Check the Resale Royalty Right for Visual Artists scheme for any secondary market sales
• Register an ABN and check GST registration requirements
• Work to a clear budget, since client taste can change and cash can be tied up in works you buy upfront
• Check whether your home or storage space needs council approval if you hold stock

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on samples, a website, transport and any artworks you buy upfront. Cash can get tied up in works you buy before a client commits.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $800 to $5,000, depending on the size of each placement, your margin and how many clients or designers you work with. Client taste and budgets can change.

Check public liability insurance and cover for artworks in transit or at client sites. Use written agreements with artists and clients, check the Resale Royalty Right scheme for secondary market sales, and register an ABN and check GST requirements.