A plea for the often invisible, but indispensable work of galleries
Art isn't a supermarket commodity – and galleries aren't just retail spaces. Yet we keep hearing the same disconcerting question, sometimes implied, sometimes directly: 'Why does the artwork cost the same in the gallery as in the studio?'
In fact, this is one of the biggest misunderstandings in the art world – and it's time to clarify this clearly and in a differentiated way.
The gallery commission – a fair share, not a luxury problem
Let's start with the aspect that concerns many: a gallery's commission on sales. Yes, it's common for the gallery to receive a commission on a sale. And no, this isn't a sign of greed – but rather the result of hard work, high risk, and a complex network of experience, expertise, and dedication.
Galleries like ours do far more than simply 'exhibit' art. We advise, curate, organize, network, sell, and support artists – often for many years. And not just for a single work or exhibition, but for an entire artist's career. This work is not only time-consuming but also financially demanding.
In plain terms: Trade fair participation quickly costs five-figure sums – for the booth, setup, logistics, and personnel. The risk? The gallery bears it. Exhibitions mean rent, wages, technology, PR, graphic design, shipping, setup, and dismantling. The gallery often pays most of this upfront. Catalogues and publications don't just appear out of thin air; they require professional design, editing, and printing. Art consulting and sales are no walk in the park: acquiring clients and building long-term relationships requires building rapport, expertise, negotiation skills, and often, patience.
The price remains the same – as a matter of principle.
Because as soon as artists start undercutting galleries, they're sawing off the branch they're sitting on. It destroys trust in a consistent pricing system, damages the secondary market, and undermines credibility—for both artists and galleries. That's why, for us—as for every professional gallery—the price of a work of art is the same, regardless of whether it's sold in the gallery or in the artist's studio. A work of art doesn't change its nature (or its value!) simply by being displayed in a different location.
Art prices are based on quality, market value, and positioning – not on profit margin. The gallery ensures market stability and plays a crucial role in making a work of art worthy of collection, investment, and art historical relevance. A studio visit alone cannot achieve this.
In conclusion: The gallery is not an intermediary – it is a co-creator. The myth of the gallery as a mere intermediary is long outdated. Galleries like ours are not stopovers on the way from the easel to the living room. We are active participants in the art market, drivers of visibility, quality assurance, discourse, and market value. And that is what we stand for – with our commitment, our expertise, and our willingness to take risks.
Anyone wondering why a work of art in a gallery isn't more expensive or cheaper than one created in a studio is asking the wrong question.
The correct question is: What makes this work so extraordinary and valuable that it is even represented in a professional gallery?
Because what we offer is not just space – but relevance.