Small independent art gallery

Art buyers, collectors, gift shoppers and businesses decorating offices, plus artists who pay fees for exhibiting.

Commission on each sale (often agreed as a percentage with the artist), plus exhibition or wall-hire fees, framing, and event ticket sales.

• Good eye for art and what sells
• Building relationships with artists
• Selling and customer service
• Marketing and social media

• Commercial lease terms and rent: check them carefully, ideally with a solicitor
• Council approval for the premises use and signage, check with your local council
• Public liability insurance and cover for artworks on consignment
• Clear written agreements with artists on commission, payment timing and unsold work
• GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, check with the ATO
• Slow months: sales can be uneven, so keep a cash buffer for rent

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on the premises, the fit-out and how much you spend on lighting, display and launching your first exhibitions.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on sales, commissions and exhibiting fees. Sales can be uneven, so keep a cash buffer for rent. Allow about 30 hours a week at minimum.

Check commercial lease terms and rent, ideally with a solicitor, plus council approval for premises use and signage. Also check public liability insurance and cover for consigned artworks, written artist agreements, and GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold.