Blog

• “The per square inch method”

• “What level are you?”

• “Do your research and be consistent in how you price”

The most structured and preferred by gallies is pricing art per square inch. A dollar amount per square inch is set and changes according to the artist’s skill and reputation. Here are standard rate ranges based on career level: 

• Beginner:  $1 to $2 per square inch. The focus at this stage is to build a sales history and market presence.

• Emerging:  $2 to $5 per square inch. This accounts for an artist’s growing recognition and skill and developing a track record. 

• Established:  $5 to $10 per square inch or more. This level would include artists who have built a following with significant recognition, sell consistently, and may have gallery representation.

• Echelon: commands premium prices well beyond the standard scale. These are made artists with a worldwide presence and significant sales history.

Most artists use a sliding scale where the price per square inch decreases as the size of the artwork increases. This prevents larger pieces from becoming prohibitively expensive. Do add the cost of the frame. Plus, galleries and show venues often require 30 - 50% commission, and your pricing should account for this. When in doubt, visit galleries and see what artists of your level are asking for their work and how it is being presented.

The most important aspect of pricing is to be consistent in your method. It is hard to justify why one 16 x 20 painting costs $400, and another is $600. Just because you like one better, or one required more time, does not justify the difference. The patron pays for the product, not the process.

As your skill, reputation, and demand grow, gradually increase your base rate. Periodically reassess you're pricing to ensure it remains aligned with the market and your career progression. 

Thank you for following my website. The next topic will be on how framing like a snazzy outfit makes the man, professional framing says a lot about the artist.