The idea for ArtMinded did not originate on the drawing board - it was born out of an intensive examination of the problems facing the art industry. Through research and interviews with artists in Switzerland and France, it became clear that the industry needs new approaches. Here we tell you about the challenges that led us to found ArtMinded.
Galleries demand up to 50 percent margin
Traditional galleries work with gallery contracts that regulate the rights and obligations of both sides - from exhibition to marketing. In Switzerland, most galleries demand a 30 to 50 percent share of the proceeds.
According to our own survey of ten artists in Switzerland and France, the margin is usually 50%. Only a few small galleries charge the minimum rate of 30 percent - but it is precisely these small galleries that often do not have the potential to make artworks accessible to a wide audience.
The result: artists invest a lot of time in their works, but only receive half of the sales proceeds. Many therefore rightly question whether working with a gallery is worthwhile.
Exclusive contracts restrict artists
Another problem: galleries often bind artists to themselves through exclusive contracts. This means that artists are not allowed to offer their works in other galleries or sell them via their own platform. Some galleries even claim the right to future works.
Our survey clearly showed that eight out of ten artists surveyed want to decide for themselves where and how they sell their artworks. There is a great desire for independence - but the traditional gallery structure makes it difficult to go it alone.
In addition, gallery contracts should never be concluded informally or with a handshake. Special care should be taken with long-term or open-ended contracts to avoid unfair conditions.
Small artists have a particularly hard time
Many talented artists have neither the means nor the know-how to set up their own webshop or market themselves professionally. Their only option: art platforms with high margins or galleries with limited conditions.
Physical galleries rarely take on small or unknown artists, as they prefer works that are more likely to sell. At the same time, there is a lack of digital platforms that really support artists - not only with sales, but also with framing, shipping and online visibility.
ArtMinded from Wädenswil was founded precisely for this purpose: to help talented artists with marketing, technical preparation and the entire sales process.
Digital art platforms do not solve the problem
While blockchain technology is a growing trend in Switzerland, digital art platforms such as OpenSea do not offer a real solution for physical artworks. They do not allow you to make your own imprint on the platform and certification via NFTs remains inaccessible for many artists.
In addition, most platforms have fixed cooperation partners, only advertise for larger artists and do not promote regionality or proximity between artists and the public. None of the existing digital art galleries in Switzerland offer a solution that supports artists with all challenges at the same time - from logistics to certification and sales.
Our answer: ArtMinded
All these insights motivated us to found ArtMinded. Our approach is different from the traditional gallery route:
Fair conditions instead of a 50 percent margin. We work transparently and in partnership with our artists.
No exclusive commitment. Our artists retain full freedom to sell their works via other channels.
All-round service from professional framing and secure packaging to shipping directly to the customer. Plus web design, SEO and online marketing - all from a single source.
Access for all. Whether you're an established artist or an up-and-coming talent - everyone gets the same professional support from us.
Conclusion
The art industry is facing real challenges: high margins, restrictive contracts and a lack of digital infrastructure. ArtMinded was founded to solve these problems - with a fair, transparent model that benefits artists and art lovers alike.
Discover hand-painted oil paintings in our store or find out more about our history. Are you an artist looking for a partner? Get in touch with us - We look forward to receiving your works.
