In today’s age, the allure of online art galleries is undeniable. With thousands of pieces to browse from the comfort of your couch, who wouldn’t be tempted to find that perfect piece? But as the digital art market expands, so do the risks of running into dubious galleries. So, how do you tell if an online art gallery is legitimate? Let’s dig into some key indicators to spot a reputable online gallery versus one that might be as real as a Mona Lisa for $20. Spoiler alert: Addicted Art Gallery is a shining example of authenticity!
1. The Gallery Has a Functional, Well-Trafficked Website
First stop: the gallery’s website. Does it look as though it’s been curated with care, or is it a chaotic jumble of pixels? A quick check with tools like SimilarWeb can reveal if it’s attracting genuine traffic or just digital tumbleweed. A reputable gallery’s website is secure, typically encrypted with a digital certificate (such as one from AWS) to protect your personal information from any prying eyes. A secure, bustling site? That’s a definite green flag.
2. Certified and Trusted: Stamp of Approval
Top galleries don’t just talk a good game; they have the credentials to back it up. Look out for a TrustedSite seal or similar independent third-party certification. These seals aren’t just window dressing—they mean the gallery has the security, business integrity, and reliability you’re after. And if they’re willing to put these trust badges front and centre, that’s even better.
3. Partners with the Art World’s Marketplaces
Like a VIP badge at an opening night, partnerships with global art marketplaces — Global Art Traders, Printed Editions, ArtLand, ArtNet and Artsy — add clout. A presence on these platforms signals that they’re not only established but connected to collectors from a across the globe.
4. Social Media Presence: A Vibrant Community or Just a Numbers Game?
Today, having an online art gallery without social media is like having an art exhibit in a pitch-black room—there’s no way to see it. Look for profiles on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok and Pinterest, to name a few. But don’t just glance at the follower count! What matters more is engagement: are people liking, commenting, and sharing? A huge following but zero interaction can hint at “fake followers” or disengaged audiences.
5. A Google My Business Profile
Does the gallery show up on Google My Business? An active Google listing typically means the gallery wants to be found and is serious about building a visible, reliable brand. Check for images, reviews, and updates that reflect a genuine business presence.
6. LinkedIn Profile: Connections and Content
While LinkedIn isn’t the usual haunt for art collectors, a legitimate gallery is likely to have a profile. Look for the gallery’s connections and whether they post articles or updates. A well-connected gallery on LinkedIn demonstrates professionalism and engagement within the art world.
7. Artist Representation
Genuine galleries don’t just exist to sell art—they represent artists. Look for sections dedicated to the artists they support. Check if the gallery promotes their artists’ stories, techniques, and past work, showing an authentic commitment to their talent rather than just their sales potential.
8. Does the Gallery Sell Works on the Secondary Market?
Galleries that operate in the secondary market (resale of previously sold artworks) often have deep expertise and reliable contacts within the art world. This can be an indicator of credibility, as the gallery is working with a broader scope of art and collectors.
9. Events and Shows: Virtual and Physical
A legitimate gallery often hosts events—both virtual and physical. These might be virtual showings, live Q&A sessions with artists, or even in-person exhibitions. An active calendar of events not only showcases their dedication to the arts but also helps create a loyal community around the gallery.
10. Blog Content and Engaging Newsletters
A blog can be a gallery’s secret sauce, giving you a behind-the-scenes look into art trends, artist stories, and insider collector tips. If the gallery’s blog feels inspired rather than “in it for the sale,” that’s a good sign! Even better? A lively newsletter sent straight to subscribers’ inboxes, packed with the latest blog updates, new pieces and exclusive invites. It’s a way of saying, “We’re here to keep you in the art loop,” not just “Here’s more to buy.” A well-crafted newsletter shows they’re in it to build an art-loving community, not just a customer list.
11. Business Profile and Financial Transparency
If the gallery is based in a place where business records are public (like Singapore with ACRA), you can look up the gallery’s financial filings. While this might feel a tad extra, it’s not a bad idea for larger purchases to verify the gallery’s standing.
12. Customer Reviews
A quick Google search can help you find customer reviews. The best galleries will have a mix of reviews on third-party sites, but beware of only positive feedback or reviews that sound a bit too good to be true. Look for details on quality / knowledge, shipping and customer service.
13. Real, Reachable Human Beings
Contacting the gallery should be easy, and you should be able to speak to a real person. It’s a major red flag if you can’t get anyone on the phone or if they dodge direct communication. Legit galleries will have accessible contact information and an approachable team.
14. Viewings Upon Request
While some galleries may limit physical access to artworks, many will arrange for private viewings or virtual tours. If you’re considering a big investment, it’s worth asking if you can arrange to view the piece in some way.
15. Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies
Take a moment to read the fine print! A legitimate gallery will have clear Terms & Conditions, as well as a Privacy Policy that protects your data. Ambiguity in these areas? Tread carefully.
16. Guarantees of Authenticity
Authenticity is key in the art world, and reputable galleries offer certificates of authenticity and provenance documents to back up their claims. Without these, you could be risking your investment.
17. Independent Condition Checks
Reputable galleries often offer independent condition reports, especially for higher-value pieces. If the gallery dodges questions about the piece’s condition, or the information seems vague, think twice.
So, next time you’re browsing an online art gallery, keep these points in mind, and you’ll be buying with confidence. And if you’re looking for a gallery that sets the standard in trustworthiness and passion for art, Addicted Art Gallery is hard to beat...we’re so shiny 😉!
Addicted Art Gallery is an online art gallery founded by an Australian "Mr" (Blair) and "Mrs" (Elena).
"Our passion for art was ignited in the late 90s when we purchased our very first piece, a collage, from a gallery located in Berry, a country town in New South Wales, Australia.
"Fast forward a few years to 2002. It was during this year we were offered the opportunity to work in The Lion City, otherwise known as Singapore. This became the launching pad for more travel and living adventures which included calling London and New York home for a number of years.
"During our travels we collected art pieces we loved - a practice we strongly encourage!
"These pieces are a reflection and a reminder of where we have been, and of the fond memories made along the way.
"In 2007 our voyage came full circle and we once again returned to the island nation where we continued our love affair with art.
"Our passion rapidly became an addiction which lead to the birth of Addicted Art Gallery in 2015."