Report archive

Report archive

Each year we take a deep dive into the online art trade, looking at the trends, figures, and platforms which are steering the industry. Our archive of Art Trade Reports will allow you to trace the growth of the online art world and look at how established businesses and new platforms are adapting to the digital market.

Looking for our most recent report? Click here to view the Hiscox Online Art Trade Report 2019.

Hiscox Online Art Trade Report 2018

  • Online art market sales reached an estimated $4.22 billion.
  • 90% of new buyers said price transparency was a key attribute and criteria when buying art online.
  • 41% of online art platforms believe the online art market will consolidate into only a few global platforms.
  • 41% of online art buyers are ‘concerned’ or ‘very concerned’ about cybercrime when buying art online.
Download the full report 2018
 

Hiscox Online Art Trade Report 2017

  • Online art market sales reach an estimated $3.75 billion, up 15% in 12 months.
  • Traditional art businesses catch-up with their online-only rivals.
  • Third-party sales channels are gaining in popularity.
  • Online art sales are dominated by pieces priced below $5,000.
Download the full report 2017
 

Hiscox Online Art Trade Report 2016

  • Online art market sales see a 24% growth in 12 months.
  • Traditional galleries and auction houses begin to catch up with e-commerce players.
  • An overall slow-down in art sales is predicted to affect e-commerce.
  • Instagram is increasingly used by artists, galleries, museums and auction houses.
Download the full report 2016
 

Hiscox Online Art Trade Report 2015

  • Value of the online art market rises from $1.57 billion to $2.64 billion.
  • Online purchase of art as investment sees a growth in uptake.
  • Online art auctions and marketplaces see a triple-digit growth over the year.
  • 41% of respondents cite social media as driving them to an online art sales platform.
Download the full report 2015
 

Hiscox Online Art Trade Report 2014

  • Confidence in buying online grows, with price tolerance rising.
  • Online-only platforms begin to build brand trust and awareness among consumers.
  • The potential for e-commerce to support physical galleries is recognised.
  • Christie’s and Sotheby’s online sales begin to grow.
Download the full report 2014
 

Hiscox Online Art Trade Report 2013

  • The online art market increases the potential of the lower-end of the art market.
  • Limited edition prints and photography are considered the most suited to online sales.
  • Traditional galleries are slow to move into the world of e-commerce.
  • Artists sell directly to their fan base, without the use of intermediaries.
Download the full report 2013