Understanding the Evolution of Digital Art Marketplaces
Bushra Ramadan
How online platforms have changed the way art is bought and sold, from print shops to digital collectibles.
Ten years ago most art was sold through galleries and auction houses. Today a growing share changes hands online.
New routes to buyers
Print-on-demand shops, social media and online galleries let artists reach collectors directly and keep more of each sale. Many now earn a living without ever exhibiting in a traditional gallery.
After the hype
The boom and bust of digital collectibles taught buyers to be more cautious, but the technology behind them is still being used for certificates of authenticity and royalties on resales.