4 Benefits of Displaying Prices for Your Artwork (and 3 Drawbacks)

Do you show your art prices? This can be a contentious issue, as both sides vehemently defend their views. Some consider it too venal, but there are business experts who believe it is critical to increasing sales. In any case, this is a personal decision.

But how do you choose what's right for you and your art business? We recommend looking at both sides of the argument to see where you stand. Here are a few pros and cons of displaying prices for your artwork:

"Publish your prices if you're trying to sell your art." —

PROS: it makes it easier to work with potential buyers

Interested people at art shows and festivals can shy away from priceless art. Some people don't feel comfortable asking prices. Others may simply think it's too expensive and continue on their way. None of these results are desirable. If there are no prices on your blog or website, people may think that the work is not selling or is out of their budget. So, consider displaying your prices to make it easier for potential buyers to become customers.

PRO: shows transparency

According to a business art expert, if you don't show your prices, it becomes an awkward game of how much people are willing to pay. People need transparency, especially when they are buying a valuable item like art.

PROS: Saves you and the customer from awkward situations

If you don't feel comfortable talking about dollars and cents, displaying your prices can save you from unwanted situations. You also won't run into a potential buyer who asks for prices only to find out they can't afford your art. Displaying prices allows people to decide for themselves whether they are ready to make a purchase and whether they fit into the budget.

PRO: It makes galleries easier to work with

Some artists feel that they should not show prices if they are in a gallery. According to: “A good gallery should not be afraid of artists trying to sell their work. On the contrary, they should be delighted that the artists are doing everything possible to increase sales.” It also helps gallerists who view your art online. If there are no prices, it will be more difficult for the gallery owner to decide whether you will be a good candidate. When you're hoping for representativeness, you want to make the process as easy as possible for galleries. When your prices are in place, the gallery owner does not have to spend time deciding whether to contact you or not.

"No matter where you sell your art, make sure the price is listed so people can see the prices." —

CONS: It can be troublesome

Some artists don't display prices because they often raise their prices and don't want to update prices or accidentally leave the old price online. You also need to make sure the prices match what your galleries charge. While this takes time, it can lead to increased sales and pay off in the long run.

CONS: It may lead to less interaction with buyers

If prices are already on the display, potential customers may be less inclined to ask for more information. Without published prices, they will have to call you or the gallery. Theoretically, this can be a great way to attract a potential buyer and turn him into a real buyer. But it can also dissuade people because they have to take an extra, possibly uncomfortable step.

CONS: It may make your site look too commercial.

Some artists worry that their websites look too salesy and unattractive, so they hide prices. This is fine if you are creating a portfolio or an online museum. However, if your goal is to sell, consider displaying prices to help interested art collectors.

How to get the best of both worlds?

We propose to follow the example of the recognized and successful artist Lawrence Lee. He uses his latest work to showcase large images. If the buyer wants to see more, he can click on the "Archive and Current Work" button, which leads to Lawrence's website. Lawrence has one at the bottom of every website page. He stores all of his affordable works on his public profile page, where they are automatically updated every time he updates his inventory. Buyers can contact him through the page and he has already sold numerous paintings for prices ranging from $4000 to $7000.

Do you show your prices? We love to hear why or why not.

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