Collecting and Buying Art on Ebay

For those of us who enjoy fresh, new, original art and are always visiting craft shows, local art galleries and other such events, Ebay can be a dream come true. Many artists are on the internet nowadays and along with their web pages in cyberspace, they have stores or listings here on Ebay. You would be surprised at the amount of Self Representing Artists you can find with one search. Buying art on Ebay is quick, simple and safe if you keep the following things in mind:

1. After finding a piece of art you really like, do a little research on it on Google. Just type in the name of the piece and/or the artist's name and see what you pull up. Chances are, you will pull up their main website and somewhere on their website you will find the piece you have fallen in love with. Breathe easy, your piece is legitimate.

2. If, after googling your coveted art piece, you don't find the artist listed or you find the painting but under another person's name, BEWARE. There are many people in this world who think nothing of ripping art off from hard working artists who are trying to support their families with sales of their art. If something smells fishy, it probably is.

3. If you really have your heart set on this piece and can find the original artist's name then send them an email (usually found on their website). Let them know about your interest in the piece and about the bogus Ebay listing. Chances are the artist will give you a nice discount for sharing the information about the forged art on Ebay. I know I would offer a discount if such a situation were to occur with my art. It's already occured with my hubby's art!

4. Also, don't be afraid to collect the lovely, collectible ACEO or Art Cards that are being listed night and day now. These are Artists answers to collectible cards and allow everyone to gain a large collection of ORIGINAL art. The fun surrounding Art Card collection is amazing. There are fancily decorated art albums, art boxes, etc. to put your art cards in. Remember, each one of these little masterpieces is an original work of art, unless listed as a limited edition print. Limited edition prints or LE's are also very collectible and gain in value over time. So, it's a win - win situation.

5. Add your favorite artists to your favorite sellers lists so you can be kept up to date on any new listings, specials or sales they might be having. I have seen original art from phenomenal artists go from anywhere between $20 - $300. You really can't beat that! Plus, you have the protection of Ebay at all times. In addition, if you use Paypal, you are doubly protected. If anything goes wrong you have avenues to get your money back. Most artists will bend over backwards to fix any problem that might occur... as well as toss in a few extra goodies. Again, it's a win win situation.

Hunting for art on Ebay is so easy. I prefer to look for art from Self Representing Artists, so that is what I type into the search engine. After that, I might whittle down the listings by the kind of art I am looking for. In my case, that would be Fantasy most of the time. I'll reset the listings to show me what is ending soonest and go from there. You would be amazed at how cheap some art goes for at times! I've picked up many no bid, five minute or less listings for under $10.00. I don't think you can beat that price for an original anywhere.

Well, that sums up this short guide to collecting and buying art on Ebay. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me through Ebay. I'd be happy to try and answer any questions you might have.

Remember, Ebay Art is the same art you see in galleries for hundreds of dollars. Why not save a few bucks and support a Self Representing Artist instead?

Brightest Blessings to you and yours!