These notes may help you make informed decisions about on-line art purchases.  They are only my opinion and are not based on formal studies.  Please give me feedback:  Whether or not you purchase, are these ideas helpful to you?

BUYING ART ON-LINE:

Viewing art on-line provides a quiet atmosphere in which to consider your purchase.  There is no pressure.  Without embarrassment, you can e-mail the artist with your questions.  Use the same caution you would with other on-line purchases and you have an excellent chance of being satisfied.

Many of the following points apply to art purchased anywhere, but be diligent when purchasing on-line.  Let's begin with the assumption that you like most of what your prospective artist does.

1.   Read the artist's biography and credentials.  Does the artist have a formal art education?  Has the artist studied under significant instructors?  Does the artist teach?  Is the artist knowledgeable about influences on his work?  In what juried exhibitions, and for how many years, has the artist competed?  Any awards?  Google the artist's name and see what kind of entries turn up.  Answers to these questions can be variable:  If I were considering an emerging artist I would look for education and presence on a variety of internet sites.

2.    Zoom in on the image to examine the brush strokes or palette knife work.  Does it please you?  Do you like thick or thin paint application?  If the image is not clear or the file not large enough, ask the artist to e-mail you a larger file of the painting.  If framed, examine the condition of the frame.

3.   Know the outer dimensions of the framed piece (if purchasing unframed, give it a guess) and measure to be sure it will fit your space.

4.   Ask about the archival qualities of the materials used.  If you don't know ditz about what that means, most artists will be delighted to inform you.  High quality materials are a must if you want a lasting collection.  (Primitive art is an exception:  Expect the unexpected and the impermanent.  That is part of its charm.)

5.   Expect prices to be similar to gallery prices.  Artists who are represented by galleries usually have a signed contract that prevents the artist from underselling the gallery.  Prices are set mutually.  Artists who have no gallery representation  are unrestricted except by their own rules.

6.  Understand the purchase and return policies.

7.  Ask questions freely.