The Art That Sells – A Deep Dive into Successful Artwork

Have you ever wondered why certain art pieces are worth billions while others cost cheap? Or what makes an artwork valuable and profitable when sold? Or why do some themes appeal to people more than others?

Art is not just a skill but a deep-rooted passion for many individuals. Artworks have the capability to express ideas, convey emotions, and deliver impactful messages to the audience. Though art enthusiasts embrace art for its aesthetic appeal, one question that crosses the mind of many artists is what makes art sellable. 

For artists to sustain themselves in art and earn money, researching the potential art market and knowing the genres that sell most is essential. So, if you struggle to sell your art pieces and need help reaching your target audience, this article is a must-read. 

As we go through this article, we will discover the various themes, genres, and subjects that make art popular and sellable among art buyers. We will also learn about limited edition prints, the best sizes of paintings, and ways to commission one. 

So, without delay, let us begin knowing the art that sells. 

What Kind of Art Sells? 

Today, selling art online has become effortless with the many online marketplaces and websites. But the question arises: What type of art are people buying? What are the best-selling art subjects that fit the current market trends? 

Though every artist loves creating artwork, one problem they may face is the inability to sell their art pieces. While some successful artists do not prioritize money, it is a great deal for many. Thus, knowing the best-selling art form is essential to monetize your talent. 

Understanding what artwork sells makes it easier to develop a marketing strategy. This process helps in adjusting prices and making a profitable art business today. Staying updated with the trends helps boost art sales and generate profit regularly. 

So, art is about communicating a message or expression through colors and creative artistry. Good art pieces make an emotional connection with humans. Art that triggers good memories or recreates historic events settles well in the market. 

Now, we’ll look into a curated list of genres and themes that appeal to and sell the most.

Popular Art Genres, Themes, and Subjects 

Every art subject has its unique characteristics and features. People buy art to enrich their surroundings with vibrant colors and aesthetics. The artwork adds a pleasing touch to the decor and gives it a welcoming and refreshing feeling. 

The art that sells depends upon the artist’s creativity, the art buyer’s preferences, and prevailing trends in the art world. So, let us explore these top-selling themes and subjects art collectors appreciate and embrace. 

• Landscape Paintings

Who doesn’t love the beautiful view of warm and soothing natural landscapes? A landscape painting is among the most famous artworks and the first choice of many art buyers. Be it deep blue seas, scenic, lush forests, glowing sunrises, or panoramic skies, landscapes are rich and mesmerizing. 

Landscapes sell in the art market because of their visual appeal and relaxing touch. These classic art pieces enliven the room’s beauty and help people reconnect with nature. They share a feeling of contentment and uplift the viewer’s mood and spirit. 

The subtle colors like green, sky blue, light yellow, etc., are pleasing to the sight. They balance with the surrounding elements like furniture, walls, and side settings to give a refined and modern finish. The combinations set out in harmony to enrich the interior and provide a natural look. Thus, art enthusiasts like landscapes because of the positivity, peace, and tranquility they render. 

   

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Credit: Art Candy 

Types of Landscape Paintings That Sell Best 

• Traditional landscapes depict historical scenes and events of a particular area. These paintings attract customers because of their aesthetic and dynamic value.
• Landscapes featuring seascapes, beach scenes, and mountain ranges also sell well. They radiate vacation and tourist vibes. These paintings are associated with relaxation, positivity, leisure, and vibrance. They keep individuals close to the environment, thus making it one of the best sellers. 
• Another type of landscape painting that is popular nowadays is semi-abstract landscapes. Real-life incidents inspire this type of artwork where artists represent them in a modern and minimal way. Nowadays, this landscape painting is in trend because of its contemporary approach. 
• Apart from them, impressionist landscapes are also top-selling paintings. These paintings feature open compositions and bright colors. In addition, they have visible fleeting brush strokes, unusual angles, and unique portrayals. 

 

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Credit: National Art Gallery               

So, as artists, if you know these landscapes sell best, why would you prefer making mediocre landscapes? You will make the trendy ones your strength and work towards capturing the market with your authentic style. 

• Abstract Paintings 

An abstract painting gives the artist the freedom to express their innermost feelings and emotions. People celebrate this art form because it enhances the viewer’s experience and spirit. Through abstract art, artists explore the possibilities beyond the canvas and bring ideas out of their imagination. 

Abstract paintings sell because of their exclusive representation and depiction. This art does not focus on realistic imitation but a non-objective aesthetic portrayal. Abstract artists concentrate on artistic elements like shapes, lines, textures, and forms. 

Another unique feature of abstracts is it allows viewers to interpret the message according to their understanding. People see paintings in their way and make opinions according to their perspectives. They run their imagination and draw different conclusions.  

For business corporates, abstract art is a way of telling their clients about themselves and their motives. They use this artwork to influence and attract employers and decorate their living space. Art buyers and collectors admire abstract paintings for their visual expression, language, and feeling. 

Many people even buy recreations of some famous abstract artwork. Thus, this timeless art theme is among the most popular selling successful artwork.

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Credit: Saatchi Art

• Dog and Wildlife Paintings 

Humans and animals have shared an unbreakable natural bond for ages. In prehistoric times, people etched sketches of dogs and other animals in their caves, rocks, and other mediums. Tamed animals helped humans undertake their day-to-day activities and tasks. 

Today, animals, especially dogs, and cats, are human’s best friends. Dogs are human’s trustworthy and loyal comrades without whom people cannot imagine their lives. The bond humankind and canines share is unique, memorable, and priceless.

Indeed, clicking pictures is a good option for storing and preserving the special memories of other pets. But have you ever thought about handmade paintings and artwork? Whether as a memorial of a deceased pet or a personalized frame of wildlife, these are among the most popular art subjects. 

People purchase pet paintings to capture the pet’s joyous moments and expressions on canvas. Owning an animal portrait excites people because it reminds them of the beautiful time spent together. They commission their dog portraits to celebrate their presence and the essence of the dog’s personality. 

Wildlife paintings draw human attention toward protecting flora and fauna. They inspire viewers to take action to conserve wildlife and work against the ill-treatment of animals. Wildlife artwork also celebrates the diversity and complexity of the planet’s inhabitants. 

   

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Credit: Buy Paintings 

Thus, these animal paintings have a broader appeal and demand in the current art market. People use them as wall art in homes, offices, and public places. These art pieces evoke a feeling of friendship, closeness, and beauty of nature. So, to make your artwork sell, artists must consider the animal genre and focus on improving it.

• Contemporary Art 

With the rise of radical art forms, contemporary and abstract art have gained immense recognition. Modern art refers to artwork that represents social, cultural, and technological trends creatively. This art form raises prevailing world issues and promotes debate over problems. 

Contemporary art depicts everyday life scenarios and embraces creativity in a unique sense. People use these paintings to decorate their living spaces and add an artistic touch. Public authorities utilize modern art to brighten outdoor cityscapes and convey more profound messages. 

Contemporary artwork is symbolic of self-expression, improvement, and critical thinking. These art pieces interpret deeper meanings and carry hidden denotations.  It depends upon the viewers how they perceive these implications and raise consciousness.  

Thus, individuals consider contemporary art a great option to make a statement in their space. It is best to represent the current trends in the art market.

   

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Credit: Artsper Magazine 

• Vintage Art 

Vintage art is a famous selling art option that art collectors frequently buy. It is an art style in great demand in the art world. Many purchase classic, retro-themed paintings to showcase their class and prestige. 

Vintage artwork often represents local scenes of a particular time and place. These paintings have a touch of history that one cannot find in modern artworks. Antique art gives a curated and refined look to the corners of a house. 

Retro art appeals to people as it brings nostalgia and memories. It helps create a unique aesthetic and gives a chance to represent an individualistic personality. Thus, having a collection of vintage art can help you gather art buyers. 

   

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• Digital Art 

Digital art is a best-selling art because of its affordability and customizable options. Digital art includes digital illustrations, graphic designing, paintings, animations, and video game art. The advancement of technology has brought digital art to rise and made it recognized worldwide. 

Today, individuals personalize digital images to add unconventional themes and creative flair to their spaces. Artists use websites and applications like Photoshop, Coral Draw, and more to make these innovative pieces. With the increasing demand and development, digital art is a lucrative option for art sellers. 

Credit: Art in Context 

• Figures and Nudes 

In ancient times, nude paintings signified purity, innocence, and well-being. In Western art culture, the representation of nude figures was prevalent. However, today, the trend is shifting to figures excluding nudes. Still, many art collectors purchase nude artwork for its aesthetic value. 

Talking of figures, people enjoy owning portrait paintings with pictures of other models. These art pieces capture the subject's personality, attitude, and behavior. Artists try to show their models' moods and experiences through their artworks. 

Nowadays, people even commission customized portrait paintings with their friends and families. People emotionally connect with such illustrations as they portray their near and dear ones. These art pieces help individuals recollect their precious and most treasured memories.  

Thus, paintings with figures have a separate demand in the art business. People strive for such artworks as they are personalized and special to them. 

   

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Credit: Art in Context 

What Medium of Art Sells The Best? 

Every art medium has a different price, usability, and benefits. While some sustain decades, others warp and destroy in a few years. Let’s look at some of these mediums that make for top-selling art.

• Oil Paints

Despite being the oldest, oil portraits remain the classic choice of art buyers. Oil paintings render bright, rich, and vibrant textures on the canvas. The depth achieved by the brush strokes of oil paints is unmatched. 

Oil paints (with a varnish coating have a lasting power to withstand time. Today, oil paintings are sold for millions in auctions and museums. Contemporary artists combine oil paints with new techniques to create masterpieces. The rise of online marketplaces has opened a massive space for artists and buyers who appreciate these elegant artworks. 

 

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Credit: Hampshire Art Studio 

• Mixed Media

Mixed media incorporates various art mediums, materials, and textures to produce the final product. With mixed media, artists create innovative works that stand out among others. These compositions of varied art forms and materials are popular among people, and thus, they purchase them widely. 

• Watercolors

Watercolor paintings are captivating pieces that make stunning additions to an art enthusiast’s collection. Because of their beauty and elegance, watercolors are one of the best-selling art mediums in the market. 

Watercolor’s unique characteristics capture the delicacy of light and color powerfully. Their transparent nature helps achieve a luminous and radiant effect in the painting. Also, the way watercolors blend allows artists to create a sense of movement and fluidity in the art. 

Because of such characteristics, watercolor paintings have gained recognition and popularity in the art market. These benefits result in a boost in art sales.

Credit: Art in Context 

•  Acrylics 

Acrylics make for the art that sells as they are low-maintenance paints and have many other advantages. Art collectors buy acrylic paintings because they are durable, vibrant, and versatile. These fast-drying alternatives are toxic-free, affordable, and durable art materials. Thus, acrylic art sells in the art market for its many creative benefits and advantages. 

Apart from these, the other art mediums that sell the best are: 

• Open-edition giclee prints
• Artist’s original engravings and imprints
• Limited-edition giclee prints, and more. 

Thus, different art mediums have distinct purposes and demands in the market. The artists must recognize their target audience's needs and make paintings according to them. 

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Other Factors that Determine What Art Sells in the Market

In addition to the art subjects and mediums, some other components decide what products have a higher demand in the market than others. Some of these factors are: 

• Pricing 

Pricing your art piece is one of the most complex tasks during art marketing. Some artists set high prices to impress the collectors and make their paintings valuable. However, others keep their art pieces cost-effective to attract larger audiences. 

Some people believe that the price of a painting determines its worth and position in the art world. But, as beginners, it is good to start pricing your pieces at an affordable cost and make a small profit. In the initial stage, gathering and impressing your target audience is the key. If people like your work, they will return to purchase it. 

Some considerations to take into account while pricing your art pieces are: 

• Start by calculating the painting size and the art medium used. The price of every art medium varies according to its versatility and usage.
• Now, determine the framing, canvas, and other materials cost used in the painting. While unframed paintings cost less, framed ones are more expensive. 
• Lastly, add your commission and fees for making the paintings. Now, add all the components and quote the final price. 

Credit: Artist’s Network 

• Branding

Branding is another crucial element that decides the art sale. Branding refers to building the name and reputation of a brand so that people recognize it. Branding helps artists create an identity in the art world and represent themselves among their competitors. 

A consistent and good brand value makes the artist recognizable in the art market and connects with the right audience. It helps create trust and loyalty among art collectors and buyers. To build a good brand, you can:

• Make your own website wherein you can upload your artwork regularly. 
• Be loyal to your customers and deliver what you have promised. 
• Keep promoting your brand and the benefits of commissioning art from you. 
• Try to increase your art sales and attract new customers.
• Acquire good communication skills to understand and convey your opinions effectively. 
• Listen to your customer’s feedback and work according to their preferences. 

Credit: Macyln Group 

•  Authenticity

The authenticity of a painting has a significant impact on its price. Authenticity assures the audience that the art is genuine and original. It builds trust among the audience and guarantees them the uniqueness and individuality of the piece. 

In the case of canvas prints, original artworks come with certificates. This document ensures the genuineness of art and helps define its potential value. Thus, authenticity is also crucial in deciding an art piece’s price. 

• Color 

According to studies, red is one of the colors that sell the best. Art enthusiasts prefer red paintings because red symbolizes enthusiasm, love, and excitement. It evokes strong psychological responses and feelings.

Apart from red, warm colors like orange and yellow and cool colors like green and blue are close in art sales. Green and blue signify serene nature, outdoors, landscapes, and lush lands. Yellow represents sunshine and happiness. These shades brighten up surroundings and bring pleasant emotions. 

The tones and hues of colors also play a vital role in setting the art price. Some color shades sell better than others, and vice-versa. People tend to buy vibrant colors more than earthy tones. The reason is that bright colors are attractive and boost mood and energy.  Thus, the color of paintings also determines its sale in the art market. 

   

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Credit: Deco Art 

What is the Best Size for Selling Paintings?

The best size for selling art pieces has always been a debatable topic. While some experts claim that large paintings are impressive and exquisite, others say that small-size artwork is affordable and more accessible. 

The painting's size holds a significant value in the viewer’s eyes. No matter how beautiful the art piece is, the size can change the spectator's mood. It is a considerable factor that depends on various elements, including- the buyer’s preferences, the art medium, the art subject, and the intended purpose. 

The size of the painting also plays a vital role in deciding its monetary value. Larger pieces cost a premium price, whereas smaller frames are sold at lower costs.

However, a few standard sizes sell best in the market. These are: 

• For smaller prints - 10” * 8” frames and 12” * 10” frames
• For larger paintings - 16” * 20” frames 

These standard frames help adjust more size options of paintings effectively. 

Credit: Frame Destination 

Advantages of A Larger Frame

• It gives spectators a better and clearer view. 
• It helps grab viewer’s attention and attract them to look at it.
• A larger frame accounts for more profit margin on one art piece.
• It can showcase fewer and the same subjects but in an impactful way. 
• It has less cumulative cost of materials and art supplies.

Disadvantages of A Larger Frame 

• Large frames are difficult to transport, ship, or carry.
• Large frames have high framing costs.
• More time and effort of an artist goes into making these big frames.
• These frames are tough to store and have high printing costs. 

Advantages of A Smaller Frame 

• Smaller paintings are easy to handle and store. 
• Smaller frame prints come out of high resolution and quality. 
• These frames are easier to sell and cheaper to frame. 

Disadvantages of A Smaller Frame 

• The artist has to work with more accuracy and precision on the intricate details. 
• Smaller frames have less visual impact on the audience, especially if kept in a museum. 
• Small-size paintings render lesser profit and high making costs. 

Thus, both frame sizes have their pros and cons. It depends upon the buyers and sellers, which sizes they demand more and are convenient in selling more. 

Which is More Popular: Original Art or Prints?

Buying art has become a daunting and intimidating task for people. The complexity lies in deciding what to buy, how to preserve them, and the best price to attain them. Though original art has great aesthetic value in the art world, prints sell more. 

The reason behind this is prints are inexpensive and much easier to produce. Today, many people are attracted to prints as they are affordable and of higher quality. These fine art reproductions are stunning compositions that hold the power to increase their value over time. 

Credit: Abstract Art Paintings by Carmen Guedez

Canvas prints have dot matrix patterns and sharp and even edges. These imprints are reproductions of famous artworks; thus, people use them as wall art. Every fine art print has an identification number and a copyright logo at the back of the frame. 

On the other hand, an original painting has the authenticity and realism of an artwork. It has the essence of creativity and innovation in it. Original artworks have vibrant usage of colors, expressing depth and imagination. They are one-of-a-kind work, making them worth the high cost. 

Thus, prints are cheaper because they are mass-produced in large numbers, unlike original artwork. So, they are more popular and bought than authentic art.  

Limited Edition Prints 

Limited edition prints are among the most popular artwork reproductions. Limited edition prints are a series of identical imprints commissioned by an artist. Produced in smaller numbers, every limited edition print has the artist's sign. 

When artists put a limit to the print production of their original artworks, this is when the series of limited edition prints comes into existence. This feature attracts buyers because they get the painting of an acclaimed artist. 

People prefer limited edition over open edition prints, as they give them the pleasure of owning unique pieces unavailable to everyone. They believe limited edition prints are scarce and more valuable than any other kind. 

Manufacturers produce these limited-edition prints through various techniques, including offset printing, giclee printing, lithography, or digital printing. These fine art prints give the same effect as an original art piece; thus, people love adorning their houses with them. 

Over time, limited edition prints have gained recognition and continue to grow because of their exquisite features and modern techniques. Thus, they have a huge demand and a growing art market. 

Commission A Handmade Artwork from Whataportrait

Are you looking for a website that commissions beautiful handmade art pieces? A website that gives your pictures a creative and authentic touch. Stop stressing and explore WhataPortrait. 

Among the various online alternatives, WhataPortrait is a reliable and one-stop source for art lovers and enthusiasts. Its all-inclusive painting services can fulfill all your artistic wishes.  

With the products varying from oil paintings and charcoal sketches to watercolor and pastel portraits, WhataPortrait gives its customers a wholesome experience. Whataportrait delivers the best, highest-quality, exclusive paintings through its dedicated and promising services. 

The talented artists and professionals at Whataportrait fulfill their buyer’s demands with their creative and skilled handwork. With premium quality and the finest art supplies, they create magic with their hands on the canvas. They strive to convert your favorite pictures into unforgettable replicas that let you relive your cherishable moments.

WhataPortrait, with its wide-ranging variety, has a gift option for all purposes. You can commission family portraits, memorials, compilation photos, wedding compositions, etc., all through this trusted website.

Proficient customer care experts make your art journey much easier at every juncture. Their 24*7 availability through messages, emails, or phone support makes the process even more satisfying. 

Credit: WhataPortrait 

To get a commissioned handmade piece through WhataPortrait, all you have to do is

Step 1: Embark on Your Artistic Journey with WhataPortrait

Access the WhataPortrait home page and click the ‘Get Started’ tab. The direct, easy-to-understand, user-friendly interface allows for the smooth functioning of the website. 

Step 2: Select the Painting Style

Start by choosing an art style that will suit the photos you want to commission. You can consider black-and-white sketches, oil portraits (, and acrylic paintings as per your aesthetic preference. You can also visit the photo gallery and look for references to understand the end outcomes better. 

Step 3: Add The Image You Want to Commission 

After choosing the illustrating style, the next step of uploading the pictures follows. You can directly upload the images from your computer or phone. To create a personalized blended portrait, including multiple photos, mail the images to help@whataportrait.com. 

Always consider uploading high-resolution images as their better quality helps the artist work in detail. 

Step 4: Select the Frame Size

Whataportrait offers sizes from the most miniature paintings to large lifelike portraits. Pick the painting size that fits your vision. You can go for landscapes or portraits according to your desired choice. After picking the painting size, select the frame type. 

WhataPortrait has multiple color options like rustic gold, bard brown, antique gold, white, and more. If you do not want to frame your commission work and enjoy it rolled up, you can choose the no-frame option. 

Step 5: Convey any Request or Message

WhataPortrait gives customers a blank space to fill in any special comments or requests they want on their personalized portrait. You can fill in the empty column with your unique messages. 

Step 6: Finalize Your Order and Pay For The Product

The customer-friendly facilities of WhataPortrait offer unlimited revisions of your order. You can check,  make modifications, and then finalize the order.

Step 7: Pay The Price 

Once you have finalized your order, go to the shopping cart and complete the other formalities. Pay for the product by entering all the billing, shipping, and payment details. Add the discount coupon code to get a percent off the price of the order. Once done, make quick payments and place the final order. 

And that’s it - after concluding these seven simple steps, you will receive your realistic, perfect commissioned art piece within 2-4 weeks.

Credit: Whataportrait 

Conclusion

Making art requires skill, creativity, patience, and practice. It is not a one-day task but a result of constant hard work and determination. No matter what, always believe in your talents and abilities. Spend time learning new techniques and mastering your methods. Understand the approaches and strategies of art marketing and try connecting with your potential customers. 

Start selling your products, and do not stress over profits and gains. No matter how big or small, every business has its competitors. Look for ways to compete against others honestly. Give time to marketing your art and reaching new audiences. 

Attend local art fairs, research people’s preferences, and examine and learn from other artists’ work. Build your brand, make an online portfolio, promote online sales, and gain trust and loyalty in the art world. 

Stop worrying over problems, find solutions for them, and soon your art pieces will come under top-selling art in the art market.