A recent article in The Economist analyzes Amazon’s entry into the art marketplace, pointing out the ongoing history of art sales online, and the still paltry percentage of the market’s total sales (less than 2% according to insurer Hiscox).  Noting a desire for face to face interaction in high price sales, the magazine points out that large scale sales often happen as a result of longtime client-dealer relations, instead of broad demand for a more accessible purchasing platform. (more…)

The newly launched Amazon Art marketplace system has opened, and close behind are a series of bizarre and sarcastic comments from users eager to weigh in on the offering of high-priced works for sale online, including a $1.45 million Monet.  Says one commenter: “I think I’m going to touch this up a bit with some water colors I have laying around. Make the colors pop more.” (more…)

Online mega-retailer Amazon has outlined plans to launch Amazon Fine Art Gallery this summer, a new branch of its site that will allow users to purchase art directly from partnering galleries.  “We have received overwhelming support from the galleries that have already joined the platform and we would love the opportunity to offer your gallery’s selection in the Amazon Art store.” says an email from Amazon to potential new galleries. (more…)