How to position your art for success in the global marketplace

Imagine this for a second: Your artwork hanging on walls—not just in your hometown, but in chic galleries from Paris to Tokyo, New York to Sydney. Art lovers from every corner of the world stopping, really seeing your work, feeling something, maybe even buying it. Feels amazing, right?

But here’s the real talk: getting your art out there globally isn’t as simple as just making beautiful art. Nope. There’s a whole world out there, literally, and if you want to play on that big stage, you need to know how to position yourself so the right people find you and want to connect.

So let’s break it down. Here’s what you’ve got to do to get your art ready for the global marketplace and start turning that dream into reality.

1. Get to Know the Global Art Scene Like a Pro

Look, the art world is not one big happy family, it’s a massive, diverse and made up of different collectors with various tastes, vibes, and buying habits depending on where you look.

What’s hot in a Berlin gallery might not fly in Shanghai. And those cool coastal West Coast collectors? Yeah, they might be into something totally different than someone in London.

So, first step: do your homework. Dive into the trends, find out who’s running galleries, what buyers are searching for, and what kind of art is making waves where you want to be. This isn’t about changing who you are but knowing the lay of the land.

2. Build a Body of Work that Screams YOU (But Also Sells)

You want to be the artist people recognize right away. That means your collection needs to have a vibe, a style, a voice, a story.

Forget about churning out random pieces just to fill space. Quality beats quantity every time. Make stuff that aligns, that tells a story together, that makes collectors say, “Yes! I need this.”

And here’s a little secret: you can totally adapt some pieces to hit trends without selling out your soul. Find that sweet spot where you stay true but also appeal to what the market wants.

3. Tell Your Story Like You’re Talking to a Friend

People don’t just buy art; they buy the meaning behind it. They want to connect with you.

So, how do you tell your story so it resonates worldwide? Here’s the deal: ditch the jargon and be real. Share what lights you up, what your art means to you, and why it matters.

Even better? Use videos, Instagram stories, or quick clips to let people peek behind the curtain. Show your studio, your process, your heart.

When folks feel like they know you, they root for you. And that’s powerful.

4. Own Your Online Presence Like a Boss

If you’re not online right now, you’re missing out. The internet is your 24/7, always-open gallery, and it’s the quickest way to reach global collectors.

Find the platforms that fit your art and vibe, maybe that’s Saatchi Art, Artsy, or even Etsy. Make sure your photos are crisp and your artist bio pops.

And listen: it’s not just about posting your art, it’s about engaging. Reply to comments, share your story, post behind-the-scenes sneak peeks. Make it a conversation, not a billboard.

5. Get Smart About Pricing and Shipping (Don’t Let This Trip You Up)

Okay, here’s where it gets a little tricky, but don’t worry.

You have to price your work smart (not too low, not too high) based on where you’re selling and who you’re selling to. Plus, international sales mean you’ve have got to think about currency exchange, taxes, and shipping logistics.

No one likes surprises when it comes to money or waiting months for their artwork. So plan ahead, be transparent, and pick reliable shipping partners.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Look, we know this can feel like a lot. But here’s the thing: every artist who’s making waves globally started exactly where you are. A little uncertain, a little overwhelmed, but willing to take that next step.

If you want a clearer guide, something that shows you exactly what not to do and how to avoid the comment mistakes that artists often make, download our free Gallery Gameplan. It exposes 5 hidden mistakes artists make when trying to get their work into galleries and gives you the fixes that actually work.

Your art deserves to be seen and celebrated, globally! This Gallery Gameplan is your first step to making that happen.

Are you ready? Let's begin...

Jocelyn and Jean
©DUTCHARTBOX2025