Online private art dealer

Private collectors, first-time art buyers, interior designers and small businesses decorating offices or hospitality venues.

Either a commission (agreed with the artist, often a share of the sale price) on works you sell on consignment, or a margin on works you buy and resell.

• Eye for quality and an interest in art
• Building relationships with artists and buyers
• Online marketing and photography
• Negotiating prices

• Get a written consignment agreement covering price, commission, insurance and who owns the work until it sells
• Check the Resale Royalty Right for Visual Artists scheme, which can apply to some resales of artworks
• Check authenticity and provenance before buying or selling, especially for secondary market works
• Register an ABN and check when you need to register for GST
• Consider insurance for artworks you hold or transport, and public liability if you meet clients in person
• Check Australian Consumer Law obligations on descriptions and refunds

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your website, photography, marketing and whether you buy artworks upfront. Many people start small and grow as sales come in.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $300 to $4,000, depending on the prices of the works you sell, your margin or commission, and how many buyers you reach. Sales can be lumpy.

Check the Resale Royalty Right for Visual Artists scheme, which can apply to some resales. Get a written consignment agreement, register an ABN, check when GST registration applies, and check Australian Consumer Law obligations on descriptions and refunds.