The Global Online Art Market reaches an estimated value of $12 billion.
- Marco
- 16 hours ago
- 4 min read
The art world is shifting rapidly. Online art galleries have grown in popularity, offering collectors new ways to discover and purchase art. More and more high street galleries are closing, driven by a 12% drop in sales and high operational costs. The major change however has been the shift in digital purchasing forcing the closure of many smaller spaces. For artists themselves, especially those new and up and comng, the traditional route to market is therefore even more competitive. This change raises questions about the future of traditional galleries and how they will adapt. More importantly how will artists themselves get their product to market? While traditional brick and mortar spaces face pressure, online art galleries are thriving. By 2025 the global online art market reached an estimated value of $11 to $12 billioin with projections for this figure to rise to $24 bilion by 2035.
The rise of DIY.
In the music industry the rise of DIY (Do it Yourself) Music movement has fundamentally transformed the industry by removing traditional gatekeepers and decentralising creative power. By 2024-2025 independent artists and self producers have captured nearly 50% of the global recorded music market. The launch of The Eyecon Gallery and many more like Unframed-Art highlights this trend to DIY in the art world also,
The Rise of the Global Online Art Market and Galleries
Online digital platforms now meet the rising demand for collectable signed art prints and unique pieces. The traditional gatekeepers of art, the galleries, are having to change,
This post explores the growth of online galleries, the challenges and opportunities for traditional spaces and artists and what collectors can expect moving forward.
The Growth of Online Art Galleries
Online art galleries have transformed how collectors find and buy art. Platforms like The Eyecon Gallery and Unframed-Art Gallery offer a wide range of art styles, including Room Art, Human Art, and Animal Art. These galleries provide artists a place to display their art without the ever rising commission charges which ultimately increases the end price and reduces the income that artists receive. In addition the galleries provide access to works from New UK Artists and established creators alike, all from the comfort of home.
Several factors drive this growth:
Accessibility: Collectors worldwide can browse and purchase art without geographical limits. Online channels now account for approximately 18% of total global art sales
Variety & Demographics: Growth is heavily fuelled by collectors under 45 With a much bigger global market the forces of supply and demand have greatly increased the price of well known artists.
Emerging Talent: Online platforms have democratised the industry allowing new artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers. Nearly 80% of collectors have a strong interest in new emerging talent at affordable prices. (typically below $5000)
Convenience: Easy navigation, detailed descriptions, and secure payment options simplify the buying process.
Transparency: Many platforms provide artist backgrounds and print details, helping buyers make informed choices.
The Eyecon Gallery, for example, focuses on Unique Art for Collectors, offering signed and limited-edition prints that combine quality with exclusivity. This approach attracts collectors who want authentic, collectible pieces without visiting physical galleries.
Many will rue the demise of the traditional art gallery but with the constantly increasing costs of premises, business rates and the gradual closure of the high street it is unfortunately inevitable that their numbers will decrease and customers will have to travel further to the survivors.
How Traditional Galleries Are Responding
Traditional galleries face challenges as online platforms grow. Foot traffic has declined, and some collectors prefer the ease of browsing online. Yet, physical galleries still offer unique experiences that digital spaces cannot fully replicate.
Traditional galleries are adapting by:
Hosting hybrid exhibitions that combine in-person and online viewing.
Offering exclusive events such as artist talks, workshops, and private viewings.
Collaborating with online platforms to expand their reach.
Focusing on tactile experiences, allowing collectors to see texture, scale, and framing options firsthand.
The Rising Demand for Collectable Signed Art Prints
Collectors increasingly seek signed art prints that offer both aesthetic appeal and investment potential. Signed and authenticated Giclée Prints have become popular due to their high-quality reproduction and longevity.
The Eyecon Gallery specialises in these prints, providing collectors with access to limited editions from their resident artist Marco. This focus meets the demand for art that is both beautiful and collectible and at a very reasonable price for such unique art..
Key reasons for this trend include:
Affordability: Signed prints offer a more accessible entry point than original artworks.
Exclusivity: Limited editions create a sense of rarity and uniqueness.
Investment: Collectors view signed prints as assets that may appreciate over time.
Variety: Prints cover many themes, from Human Art to Animal Art, appealing to diverse tastes.
What Collectors Should Look for in Online Galleries
When buying art online, collectors should consider several factors to ensure a satisfying purchase:
Authenticity: Look for galleries like The Eyecon Gallery that provide certificates of authenticity and artist signatures.
Print Quality: Check if the gallery uses high-quality printing methods such as Giclée Prints.
Artist Information: Reliable galleries offer detailed artist bios and background to help buyers connect with the work.
Return Policies: Understand the gallery’s policies on returns or exchanges.
Customer Reviews: Feedback from other collectors can indicate trustworthiness and service quality.
Collectors interested in Room Art should also consider how prints will fit their space. Many online galleries provide size guides and framing options to help visualize the artwork in a home or office setting.
The Future of Art Galleries
The future will likely see a blend of online and traditional gallery experiences. Physical spaces will continue to offer immersive, tactile encounters with art, while online galleries will expand access and convenience.
The Eyecon Gallery’s launch signals a new era where collectors can enjoy the best of both worlds: exclusive, signed prints available online, combined with opportunities to engage with the resident artist directly, even commission works.
Collectors should stay open to exploring new platforms and formats. The rise of Unique Art for Collectors means more choices and better access to emerging talents, especially from New UK Artists who bring fresh perspectives to the art scene.
Art collecting is evolving, and embracing these changes will help collectors build meaningful, diverse collections that reflect their tastes and values.
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