Gallery Sales Percentage: What It Means for Your Art Income

Ever wondered why a painting that sells for £2,000 only leaves you with £1,200? That gap is the gallery sales percentage – the cut galleries take for showing and selling your work. It’s a real number you need to know before you sign any contract.

Typical Ranges and Why They Vary

Most galleries charge between 30% and 50% of the sale price. A small local space might ask for 30% because they have lower overhead, while a big city gallery could demand 50% to cover rent, staff, and marketing. The percentage often depends on how much effort the gallery puts into promoting your art, the prestige of the venue, and whether they handle shipping or insurance.

How to Calculate Your Take‑Home Pay

Take the final sale price, subtract the gallery’s cut, and you get your earnings. For example, a £3,500 sale with a 40% gallery fee leaves you with £2,100. Don’t forget other costs like framing, transport, and taxes – those come out of your pocket too.

Knowing the exact percentage lets you set realistic price goals. If you need to earn at least £1,000 per piece after fees, you can work backwards: add the gallery’s share and any extra costs to find the asking price.

Many artists negotiate better terms by proving they can bring buyers themselves. If you’ve already sold a few pieces directly, ask the gallery for a reduced rate, like 30% instead of 45%. It’s a win‑win – the gallery still gets a sale, and you keep more money.

Another trick is to split exhibitions. You might agree on a lower percentage for a group show but a higher one for a solo show where the gallery does most of the heavy lifting. Always write the agreed percentage into the contract so there’s no surprise later.

Keep track of each sale and the percentage taken. A simple spreadsheet can show you which galleries are the most profitable over time. If a gallery consistently eats up 50% of your earnings, it might be time to look for a better partner.

Lastly, remember that the gallery’s percentage isn’t the only factor. A gallery with a strong network can sell your work for much higher prices, which might offset a higher cut. Balance the percentage with the overall exposure and sales volume you expect.

Understanding gallery sales percentage helps you price smarter, negotiate better, and ultimately keep more of what you earn. Use these tips next time you walk into a gallery and watch your art income grow.