Start a small storefront art gallery

Art buyers, interior designers, local businesses and collectors pay for artwork. Artists may pay exhibition or hanging fees in some gallery models.

Commission on each sale (often a share of the sale price agreed with the artist), plus optional exhibition fees, event rentals, framing and print sales.

• An eye for art and what sells locally
• Building relationships with artists and buyers
• Marketing and event planning
• Basic bookkeeping

• Check your city or county for a business license and zoning rules for retail use
• Register with your state for sales tax and check how it applies to consigned art
• General liability insurance, plus coverage for artwork in your care (check what consigned work needs)
• Commercial leases often run several years, so check terms and exit options before signing
• Sales can be slow and uneven, so keep cash reserves for quiet months

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your space, lease deposit and what you spend on display and opening events. Check lease terms and exit options before you sign.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on the artists you show and how often work sells. Sales can be slow and uneven, so keep cash reserves for quiet months.

Check your city or county for a business license and zoning rules for retail use, and register with your state for sales tax, including how it applies to consigned art. Also check general liability insurance and coverage for artwork in your care.