How to Price Your Paintings - A Guide to Pricing Artwork

In this video I discuss how to determine the price of your paintings.
For online classes with Mark Carder visit www.carderartacademy.com/
For private classes in my Austin TX studio visit www.drawmixpaint.com/
For more about my art supply company and the paint that I use visit:
genevafineart.com
To view my Full Course for how to paint in oil, go to www.drawmixpaint.com

[@RayneArt]

A gentle reminder that galleries are not the gate keepers for the art market anymore. I am a very demotivated artist and I paint every once in a while and hardly promote my work, and yet I've been able to sell my work through instagram and facebook at alright prices. Not to mention, the kind of personal connections I've been able to make with these clients, and the touching reviews of my work. If you want to know how to price your work, look at the pricing by artists who do similar work as you. And if you're just beginning to sell, lower it by half or more and then aim to eventually get to charging as much as the other artists in your field once you build a clientele. It's also a good idea to do various sizes (and mediums, if you do multiple mediums) and have them in different price ranges so a wide variety of people can buy your art. Don't let art snobs get you down.

[@oksabaa1515]

One thing i dont understand is that how should we price our printed work? I mean if the original painting is being sold then obviously its gonna be alot pricer than the prints of the original painting. Lets say if we paint a realistic landscape and its above than average then how much would the prints cost?

[@oksabaa1515]

Above average*

[@RayneArt]

@@oksabaa1515 same rule. Look at other artists similar to you.

[@r.rodriguez4991]

@@oksabaa1515 Maybe check out the book How To Sell Your Art Online by Cory Huff. Just a suggestion.

[@minavane5533]

I'm a beginning artist and so glad I came across this video and your comment.Thank you so much for your much needed advice.

[@FreeSpokenOne]

Such honest and real advise as this deserves applause! Everything said is exactly true and we can literally take this to the bank. Thanks for doing this video, it’s a great grouping of useful information.

[@Dipsxi]

I really appreciate the work you have put into your videos. Because of you, my passion for art was reignited. I can not thank you enough.

[@Thefarbetween]

“Once i have my source photo i consider the painting practically done...now all i have to do is paint it” 😂

[@gracee3194]

Like how! 😂

[@naz_fine_arts]

He is right.. its really motivating.. as artists we always look for the best photographs ..☺️

[@annsmith3192]

because he already knows how to paint it-- that's the easy part-- the photos he does are gorgeous-- I've taken many workshops from him and his post processing is good. he's exactly right - get the source right and you are halfway there.

[@jondwoods4742]

😂🙌

[@_lowpoke700]

Yepp that's how I work, what I paint is landscapes that are just impractical to paint on location. I have the paintings down to essentially a very consistent process, what he is saying is very much true for me

[@arielceleda4897]

Thanks a lot to you Mark, you are a source of knowledge to me. I enjoy listening to your experiences, and your points of view. For a freshman like me, every video makes a difference. A big handshake sir, and my best regards!

[@dantrevino4166]

i just wanted to say thanks Mark for sharing your knowledge the past 10 years i have followed you. the #1 thing i learned from you was how to discover and mix color. Thanks again.

[@pjlewisful]

Thanks. It was refreshing to hear what I always believed...That people will wonder why worse works cost more than the better works & therefore go for the less expensive better works. I think many of my artist friends price their works higher than they're worth & then wonder why they don't sell.

[@AndyMorrisArt]

thank you! I sold my first painting over 20 yrs. ago and I've been struggling ever since with the business side of being an artist. this was helpful... reiterating my suspicions

[@billknudson6620]

I did a little investigation, as that is something I do, when somebody's work strikes me! I found some of your work is profoundly incredible (My jaw hit the floor), as I sat and studied your work.... including Pres. Bush, the portraits, the animals and others. Your work is extraordinary. One can only aspire, practice painting, and practice some more, to get to your level of painting. Thanks for sharing your work and time with those who study from what you have to share.

[@ricardoenena]

I LIKE YOUR WORK TOO MUCH. THANKS FOR THE TIPS. YOU ARE A GOOD MAN. GREETINGS FROM BRAZIL.

[@jetcitysinatra7300]

I am so glad you mentioned price and gallery. If you are not blessed with a crowd that has lots of money and understand a nice work when they see it you will always be a struggling artist. I used to think the term "Starving" meant poor but it means that you are always craving more ideas and the ability to convert those ideas to a work of art. I love people so it limits what I can do and sell.

[@NineEyedOracle]

I love the way your entire home/studio looks like you spend your time INSIDE of a painting. The lighting of everything in your videos is always so lovely. I've been watching you for years and still enjoy today. :) Thank you for bringing the content and creations that you do to the world. Artists like myself appreciate them!

[@NineEyedOracle]

Although I just realized that you are green-screened into this picture LOLLLL. But still. From what I've seen of your studio and the like, the sentiment holds true.

[@CinematicSF]

My works were not satisfactory enough to attract the interest of galleries. For years I thought I was not good at painting. Fortunately, I now believe that it helped me to be constantly looking for materials, techniques and to be a restless spirit that does not repeat itself.

[@dianadee4300]

Keep going....keep learning. For many years I didn't think of myself as a "artist" because I wasn't skilled at drawing, but I loved painting, ceramics, color, etc. and finally realized I WAS an artist.

[@lisalushin4974]

You are The very best Mr. Mark ! Thank you for all your work in making videos!!!

[@SeminoleArt]

Thanks so much for the great advice! I’d also appreciate a video on online pricing recommendations, and whether or not you suggest that route as well. I appreciate the information you provide us☺️

[@Tooradj]

Priceless tips and just in time. Thanks Mark

[@kisook7677]

Thank you so much as always, have been learning about oil painting from your channel. I admire all your genuine heart for art. Wish I could purchase Geneva oil paint,, but seems like hard to get them in Korea,, always support your hard work!! Thank you

[@JoeB_BSc]

Very helpful. Thanks for posting. Your commentaries are fascinating and good to refer back to.

[@JoeB_BSc]

Very helpful commentary, thanks. Interesting what you say about mediocre as the highest price I sold at was a mediocre in my wife's and my opinion but it sold immediately. That 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder' also seems to be true. One art gallery employee said to us, rather than criticise work, just enjoy those we like. We have done so ever since - and besides it might put off a would be buyer. However, I feel your comment about mediocre pictures is in my opinion totally valid and wise, thanks.

[@letsif]

Yes, the art biz, like many other businesses, is based on hype and manufactured perceptions. Good works exist within that same world. But the real world of economics plays heavily in how marketing plays a huge part in how things are sold. Quality is not the the only thing, it is actually at the bottom of the list in the general publics knowledge base. It's all about context.

[@arielceleda4897]

Sadly, i think you got a big point here. Cheers!

[@ambrosearts]

Exactly....sad reality of modern times especially. Never buy into the commercial and social games. You have art....you have music....you have a book? Aim to go it alone with the best you create and count on small popularity or income....but at least you are in more control of what you do and any public success you might have is a bonus. Stay true to yourself and your creative works. No one can stop you from doing what you do when no one controls you with $$$.....

[@gwenbardon6025]

@@ambrosearts Absolutely! I am an elementary art teacher and although I don’t have as much time to paint as much as I would like I, I am free!! I don’t need to rely on my paintings to pay the bills! When I retire I will have an income and can paint until the end of time! 🙏🏻

[@claireonlinex]

Always giving incredibly useful advice thank you!

[@cptheartist]

i really needed this advice because i have a ton of old work that i am not happy with and i dont want to show anymore

Aaaaaa finally, you come back again on KZbin, and i'm ready to watch this 😊

[@linesser5058]

This is very sound advice, save yourself from making costly mistakes and listen to what the nice man says .

[@jalapenomiles3940]

Thanks for the advice, Artist....Keep creating Have a wonderful day champ.

[@deelynn8611]

Thank you so much for such good information. Really helpful, and your generosity in teaching us newbs these things is kind. All the best to you, and wishing you continued success.

[@lanagaylechandler1948]

Great advice! Things I had not considered! Thank you!

[@adelacreative]

I found this very informative, thank you for sharing!

[@CesarCordova]

You could paint a Vermeer like background with those beautiful windows.

[@piorism]

Look a bit more closely :)

[@jacquelineireland2273]

Love the way the light and shadow plays on the right hand wall.

[@oltedders]

@@piorism What! We've been duped? Oh my!😞

[@piorism]

@@oltedders Well, I think this is extrememy well done, and demonstates how much Mark knows about light and studio setup !

[@KeyserTheRedBeard]

great content Draw Mix Paint. I broke that thumbs up on your video. Always keep up the superb work.

[@TheObSeRvErTheObSeRv]

So true my Art teacher said many years ago, It does not matter if your the next PICASSO, If you dont approach the right gallery your DONE.!!

[@inkstickart]

some really good nuggets of information in here! thanks!

[@max_lowtide]

Thank you, that was so helpful to hear.

[@maldoori238]

Thank you. Mark a very useful video and advice.

[@saint_gales]

oh you are an angel... yesterday i got in contact with my first buyer

[@KarlEBrand]

Great information! So informative on every level! Even tho I’ll prolly never sell a piece, this info is crucial to the understanding of the business! Thank you!!

[@johnvonmartin7501]

You're right sir early works or practice works must be kept only as a collection for future clients.

[@ruthmoore1448]

Thank you, very helpful steps.

[@johnvaltaylor6109]

A well presented video Mark. Thank you. You brought up many excellent points. Pricing one's art is, as you have so eloquently pointed out, subject to a myriad of variables.

[@generations-now]

Mark might be opening his own gallery, as he mentioned in a previous video. And with so many talented artists following him here and on DMP, he’ll have his pick!

[@larrywakeman4371]

rich people have their 'pick' that isn't reality....

[@edwardmclaughlin7935]

Clicked on the thumbnail pretty much expecting to scoff. How wrong I was. This is a really sound, practical guide from one who has obviously been through the process he talks about.

[@mellow5123]

Really good. Thanks, Mark.

[@aigulyek]

Dear Mark, I am so thankful to God I met you.

[@jeffhreid]

Excellent video. Good tips

[@cindyrhodes]

Excellent information. Thank you!

[@artkaboom]

Excellent video, many thanks!

[@francepomerleau5659]

Thank you very interesting.I like your work and your vidéos

[@jacquelinedavisart]

All great advice. Thank you.

[@Mr.Pristine]

This was extremely helpful, thank you so much for this video. It became very apparent to me immediately that your coming from a place of structure and knowledge gained from experience, thank you again for this real world insight.Glad to see theres still people out here doing things with proper manners.

[@Rachaelshaw7]

Missed you. Saw your thumbnail and thought - yeeeessssss!!

[@bumblebeeamos5584]

Thanks for the great advice!

[@sheilatanart9874]

so insightful!! Thank you

[@jamieburton5524]

great advice, thank you for sharing.

[@danieldavisart]

Great advice, thanks for sharing

[@gwenbardon6025]

Thank you for this video! I find that the advice on many videos is to price the artwork by square inch but honestly that seems too simple. There seems to be many factors!

[@annsmith3192]

pricing by the square inch might be ok for someone starting to sell their first paintings-- but no buys based on how much time it took you -- its if they like it --

[@dzdART]

This is very good information. I'm an artist. I only focussed on my sketch book to practice and also digital art. But I want to try painting and possibly try to get some art in some art gallery in my city. But I have to complete 10 or more good pieces

[@rogermccollough8787]

this guy is a VERY good artist

[@clairef.shepard2776]

Thank you so much, so helpful!!

[@timdanyo898]

incredible background in your video. Rembrandtesque!

[@danielarcher308]

This was a great insight. Thanks!

[@lafortunato2894]

Great information. Thank you! How do I price my prints? That would be so helpful also. You are my number one go to!

[@kennethbutzer4467]

Great advice thank you!!

[@tamer84hatoum]

could you please explain what is the best way or setup to take a prof photos for your painting.

[@ElPitr]

thank you Mark, for your great information :)

[@jwardt42a14]

What do you look for in a gallery when you are deciding which one to approach?

[@GalleryBry]

When I’m looking at galleries I look for a few things. First, are they actively marketing work. If they aren’t pounding the pavement to make sales I’d pass. Second, it’s good to have some flexibility. Beware of any gallery that wants to exercise too much control. Beware of any gallery that says you can’t have social media, sell prints, or smaller works direct to collectors. The main thing is to have a relationship built on trust and respect. If they exercise too much control and you can’t diversify your income streams to make sales elsewhere, you could be in big trouble if they go under. Don’t rely on just one gallery to make all your sales. Diversify.

[@leojagawaga6481]

Great information Thanks Very Much

[@norberts.3347]

Wahre Worte zu einem schwierigen Thema,... danke!

[@fogsmart]

Old frames for stretched canvas are hard to find unless you can modify a traditional glazed rabbited frame into a hybrid floater frame. You might get luckier if you paint on panels I suppose. Or am I missing something?

[@Leyla-pq3fe]

I don’t paint often but when I do I try to make it perfect. I’m working on a huge canvas rn and half way done with my painting even now all of my family and friends would like to buy it but I tell them it’s probably above their budget. I feel like it’s the best painting I did so far and even tho the artist is someone like me who is unknown. I think ppl would give 5-10k for the painting which would be amazing to help me pay my college tuition for my engineering degree. I know it worth a lot but idk where to start how to sell it.

[@libertyforamericanow]

This is an amazing video.

[@gregmeissner9960]

This was helpful, thanks.

[@korukiwiarts]

This was so good to know. Thank you

[@fionahannon_art]

Thanks for this very helpful info 🙏👍

[@jacquelineleubin5004]

I have a customer who wanted a price reduction the because he bought six at the time, I made the mistake to agree (lost 1000.-) and next time, he wanted to know if I work on a big painting . I sent him a photo and he asked what the price would be for him. I told him that I can't reduce prices anymore , it was a one off, or I'll be losing a lot of money with him as customer. He is a rich guy, btw. But he understood and now buys my paintings for the asking price.

[@annsmith3192]

no discounts. no sales.

[@tomhighsmith]

You may need to tell the customer that the value of his paintings is going down by giving discounts. When he bought something for $750 that originally cost $1000, he has brought the value to $750 himself. You may have to replace $750 with $5 before he sees it.

[@GAWells-lj7qo]

Thanks heaps, awesome, helpful video!

[@TheMackhimself]

Not to mention.. canvas fastened with tacks looks 10x better/more pro/higher quality than with staples..

[@simonippo7252]

no....

[@chrisxishida]

great video thank you for putting this out 🙏

[@81MUNSTER]

This question might have been answered but does size of the painting matter when it comes to pricing? Thank you very informative

[@johndoe-lw1xo]

Stay away from the “spouse galleries” where the spouse think they’re an artist and also hang their own work. They’ll spend more time painting and promoting their own work.

[@OGRE_HATES_NERDS]

first of all, anyone who thinks theyre an artist is one. thats how it works

[@OGRE_HATES_NERDS]

@@davidguyette2586 nobody anywhere has ever taken advice from a youtube comment. if they have, then they were already one of the dumbest people alive to begin with

[@OGRE_HATES_NERDS]

@@davidguyette2586 also my comment wasnt meant to be funny. if saying youre an artist doesnt make you one, then what does? even if you think theyre a bad artist, theyre still an artist.

[@FreeSpokenOne]

I understand where you are coming from on this because I’ve known a woman who is an amazing artist, two galleries, one on Catalina Island, the other in Laguna Beach California. Her husband is a musician and supports her work but he’s also ‘an artist’ of sorts but not at all on the same level as his wife. I love this man dearly but he’s best in the backdrop as her worker elf setting up or framing her work and taking orders. Also, they do not display the art of others … not ever.

[@OGRE_HATES_NERDS]

@@FreeSpokenOne but there might be other people who prefer his art and think its better than his wife's. thats why they say "art is subjective"

[@shahzadqurashi7728]

Great advice sir

[@mn5900]

Thank you, great info

[@lisaoloughlin6476]

Very helpful, thank you

[@allenvoss7977]

On the other question would be should I charge by the square inch ? one dollar ? what would you recommend?

[@curt1286]

Thanks Mark!

[@RupturedGrid]

Thank you so much for this

[@noumae]

In my personal experience I was able to sell my first three paintings I ever made from $3-5K. Now that I've created a collection to showcase at an art show, I am still new to the art world and people aren't familiar with my work yet. I'm torn between sticking to that price since I've already established it, or lowering it due to my inexperience? What are your thoughts? Thanks

[@cindyrhodes]

OMG I went to your website to purchase the full set, and BAM I see that you had a a fire 🔥😳😩!!!!!!!! I hope that you are ok!!!!!!!!!!

[@Leyla-pq3fe]

Thank you fir the information!

[@FutureLaugh]

great advice thank you

[@pepeaguilar2205]

Excellent tips! What is the approximate percentage the gallery typically keeps? Thanks!

[@GalleryBry]

Most galleries keep 50% some even keep 60%.

[@kristine8338]

Nice, you sitting in a Johannes Vermeer setting 👨🏻‍🎨.

[@adelacreative]

Is there a specific place where we can find art agents?

[@SeanVecchione]

always great

[@michaellauinger7406]

Thank you kindly for this video

[@jhb61249]

George Braque (associate to Picasso) used a standard method in the 1930s and 1940s for determining price of his painting. One dollar per square inch or $1200 for a 30x40 inch canvas. That's not particularly in reasonable today for young artists, but an equivalent for established artists today might be $2500 to $5000. Seasoned artists will be higher. Of course Braque's work today is priced many times higher.

[@artifexmom3824]

Thank you for sharing sir. I’m so interested with your topic.☺️👍🏻 God bless you sir.🙏🏻

[@misternewman1576]

What if you gallery is online and available to all markets?

[@charlesbecker6305]

I know what he Mark means about linen but I have sold many paintings for over $200,000 and not always on linen. Masterpiece Canvas has prestretched linen canvas. Many more brands also carry them on line! I started out with small galleries and have had a fortunate career because I found a great larger Gallery to work with.

[@darlenegreenhalgh3126]

Thankyou ,Thats helpful

[@teapeaster]

Thanks. Just the info I was after