In part due to Coronavirus lockdowns, 2020 saw an impressive increase in online art sales. It is still too early to know if this remarkable upturn will continue, although it seems that these new trends are here to stay. 



Online art sales are heavily influenced by Covid-19



It is an undeniable fact: the Covid-19 lockdowns played a major role in the evolution of online art sales in 2020. This is in part due to the fact that traditional sales locations like galleries, and auction houses were forced to close. But this boost in online art sales was also influenced by individuals looking to beautiful their home surroundings as many spent more time working from hime.



Purchasing trends are continuously evolving

The latest Hiscox report (an international insurance group specializing in asset management and fine art) is an excellent resource for gathering information about the increasing online art sales market. This past year they reported the following:

- In 2020, 67% of art buyers purchased a work of art online (compared to 44% in 2019);

- In 2020, out of the individuals that had never bought a piece of art 82% bought art online, compared to 36% in 2019.



Online art sales: factors that could tarnish the increase in sales

Despite these impressive figures, there are still doubts about whether this positive increase will continue.

The 2020 Hiscox report reported several negative points to keep in mind about online art sales, including are the following:

- Buyers still prefer to see the piece in person,

- Inability to verify the artwork's quality and condition,

- Inability to verify if the artwork is fake or a counterfeit.

These points may be legitimate concerns for many. However there are an increasing number of  online art sales websites that are known for showcasing quality pieces. By finding a virtual gallery whose quality is verified, purchasers can feel more reassured.



Some still don't feel they have the green light

Aaccording to the latest Hiscox report, many individuals looking to buy art online are still afraid  of having their bank data hacked. It is true that cybersecurity is an issue, however new encryption technologies are being developed regularly as the world of online buying increases.



What about the future?

Robert Read, Director of Art at Hiscox, admitted that the explosion of online art sales is a consequence of the pandemic, stating that, "The online art market has well and truly found its feet and business is prospering. But look beneath this rosy picture and it is clear that the online market needs to be friendlier to use. It must improve its customer journey and service if it is to cement its share of the business as the art market physically re-opens." Indeed, the Hiscox report stated that 70% of people would buy more if an art advisor was available, which is the case for only 27% of platforms; Artalistic is proud to be one of the online art sales websites that offers this service to its clients!



Solving the issue of trust and secure transactions



The 2020 Hiscox report also shows that a vast majority of those looking to make purchases on online art sales platforms pay very close attention to the website's reputation and transparency.



Fears about authenticity

People are especially concerned about the authenticity of the works of art offered for sale online and the reliability of the transactions. Many people still tend to be wary of buying art online compared making purchase in a gallery. One thing is certain: by choosing Artalistic, you can feel reassured about these issues!

Over the past few months, Artalistic has secured a place as one of the most popular online art sales websites. Cynthia Soddu, Artalistic's founder, and her expert team offer a wide selection of paintings, photographs, sculptures, drawings and limited edition prints by well-established and emerging artists in the contemporary art world. Soddu is experienced and well-versed in the art market, she takes customer relations, quality of service and follow-ups with each or her clients very seriously.



Online art sales: Artalistic – bringing you transparency, reliability and expert services

Artalistic is comprised of an experienced team of individuals who know the ins and outs of art galleries and auction houses.  Each piece featured on the website is scrupulously checked and certified before being put up for sale on the website.

Artalistic is also transparent about how its transactions are carried out. No intermediary intervenes between the seller and the buyer. All prices (with shipping costs) are displayed on the site. The sellers are also rated by the buyers.Artalistic is proud to provide a flawless and reliable expeirence at all levels of the online art selling process. Each step of the sales and purchasing process is followed to ensure premium services.