Understanding art market trends and tailoring your approach to producing artwork to sell in New Zealand (NZ) can make a significant difference in your art sales journey. Whether you're exploring options for your original art for sale in NZ or simply trying to expand your reach, this guide offers insights to help you navigate the art market effectively, empowering you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your art.
At some time, every artist has faced a pivotal question in their career: should you simply paint what sells, or should you only paint what actually inspires you? For some kiwi artists, their passion might align naturally with market demand, creating a win-win situation. While for others, it's a balancing act.
Remember, painting to sell doesn't mean compromising your creativity; it means understanding your audience and finding a healthy balance that allows you to stay true to your artistic vision while also meeting market demand.
Painting to sell doesn't mean compromising your creativity; it means understanding your audience. Before committing to an art gallery or sales platform, try researching the types of art that resonate with the local NZ audience.
For instance, an abstract series might not suit a gallery that specialises in traditional landscapes, while a traditional landscape gallery would struggle to sell an abstract artwork, so aligning your work with the right venue can save time and avoid unnecessary rejection. Remember, your creative integrity is important and should always be maintained.
From my personal experience as an artist and gallery owner in NZ, I find that certain subjects and styles consistently sell well across most markets. These trends can help serve as a useful guide for other artists seeking to connect with potential buyers, but it's important to remember that preferences can often vary by region, gallery focus, and even the demographics of the audience such as age, gender or income. So, understanding what these differences are can help you position your work more effectively.
Landscapes that capture recognisable local scenes are perennially popular, especially in smaller towns or rural areas where buyers appreciate a sense of connection to their surroundings and for tourists they like to take home an original memoir. Paintings of iconic New Zealand landmarks, such as the Morakei boulders, Rangitoto island, the rolling hills of Canterbury, or serene countryside vis,tas can often evoke nostalgia and pride, making them a really safe bet for artists.
These bring a contemporary edge to the classic landscape format, often featuring stylised elements, bold colours, or abstract interpretations. Modern landscapes frequently appeal to urban buyers or those seeking a fresh, unique take on the more traditional themes.
New Zealand's stunning coastal beauty is a recurring theme in the NZ art market. Seascapes, whether tranquil or dramatic, and beach scenes that highlight familiar local shores are often highly sought after, especially for those who live inland and want a piece of that scenery in their home for when they can't viist their bach or beach house. These pieces resonate with both locals and tourists as they embody our country's natural charm.
Abstract art will continue to thrive due to its versatility and ability to fit into many different interior styles. Buyers often choose abstracts for their ability to evoke emotion or complement modern spaces without being tied to specific subjects.
Floral art has a timeless appeal and is often sought after for its vibrant colours and decorative quality. Particularly pieces that depict native New Zealand flora, such as our NZ Christmas tree, the pohutukawa or the stunning kowhai, can also tap into a uniquely local charm.
Artworks featuring birds, particularly native species like the tui or kiwi, are a favourite among nature enthusiasts. These pieces often strike a chord with buyers who appreciate the connection to New Zealand's wildlife.
Let's face it, cats have a very loyal audience; they appeal to many pet lovers or those seeking playful, quirky, whimsical subjects. Whether realistic or stylised, feline-focused art is a popular niche that consistently finds buyers.
Figure studies, particularly nude works, cater to a niche audience that values the exploration of the human form. These types of artwork, however, often appeal to a more experienced collector or those with a taste for more expressive or delicately emotive artwork.
While these subject matters are really popular, it's important to tailor your artist offerings to the specific market. For example, art galleries in smaller towns may have a stronger demand for traditional landscapes, while urban city-sized galleries might lean towards abstract or modern pieces. Always research the preferences of the gallery or audience before submitting your work.
Don't forget too that you can put your own interpretation on these subject matters; abstraction, impressionism and cubism, for example, can open up a whole new look at anything.
By tapping into these popular themes while maintaining your own unique style, you can create work that resonates with buyers across New Zealand.
In New Zealand, limited-edition prints will often outsell original artworks, primarily due to their affordability as well as the value of exclusivity they offer. Limited-edition prints are a set of prints of a single image, each numbered and signed by the artist. This exclusivity and the fact that the number of prints is limited make them more valuable to buyers.
When it comes to open-edition prints within the print market, these limited-edition giclée prints and offset-litho prints outperform them. Buyers will usually appreciate the exclusivity and value that come with numbered editions, making them a worthwhile addition to your offerings.
Limited-edition giclée prints are highly sought-after reproductions of original artworks, offering collectors an affordable yet premium alternative to purchasing original pieces. Here's what makes them special:
Collectors can often identify giclée prints on canvas by details like visible brushstrokes or palette knife marks, which mimic the texture of the original painting. This meticulous attention to detail makes sure that each print remains true to the essence of the original artwork, making giclée prints a fantastic option for those seeking high-quality, affordable art.
Artwork size significantly influences buyer preferences, with trends often tied to the location and demographics of your market.
As a general rule, larger cities tend to see higher sales of large-scale artworks, while smaller towns may lean towards smaller, more affordable pieces.
Ultimately, the choice of what to paint rests with you. Your creative vision is at the heart of your work, and the subject matter you choose should align with your personal interests, skills, and goals as an artist. Whether you're inspired by the local landscapes, bold abstract designs, or intricate figure studies, it's important that you create artwork that feels authentic to you.
However, balancing artistic integrity with market demand can significantly enhance your chances of success if sales are what you are after. Researching what sells well in your region or within your chosen galleries is a really smart move.
Beyond the subject matter, consider the size and medium of your work. Smaller pieces may sell more quickly as they are easier to display in homes or offices, while larger works can make a statement and often command higher prices. Offering a variety of sizes not only caters to different audiences but also allows you to experiment more creatively.
Additionally, think about your audience. Are you painting for the first-time buyer, seasoned collectors, or for interior designers looking for large statement pieces? Each group has different preferences and budgets, so tailoring your work to a specific demographic can boost your appeal.
For artists who enjoy working across different genres or techniques, experimenting with trending themes or styles can also be a rewarding way to broaden your portfolio. For example, incorporating elements of sustainability, cultural themes, or contemporary issues into your work can attract a niche but dedicated audience.
Personally, I enjoy creating a mix of small and large pieces across various styles, which not only keeps my work dynamic but also ensures I have something for everyone, whether it's a compact floral painting for a cosy apartment or a bold abstract piece destined for a feature wall.
At the end of the day, painting should bring you joy and satisfaction. Staying true to your artistic identity while adapting to the market trends can help you thrive creatively and commercially.
When marketing your original art for sale in NZ, remember that success often comes from understanding who your audience is, showcasing your art in the right art spaces, and offering a variety of options. By staying informed about trends and maintaining your creative authenticity, you can create art that resonates with both you and your buyers.
The painting featured in this post, titled Blend, is an abstract exploration of the blending of cultures in New Zealand, a reminder that diversity and harmony can be beautifully represented in art. Got any questions, get in touch now!
Posted: Tuesday 19 January 2010