When it comes to selling fine art, the route to market is as critical as the work itself. Whether through high-profile auctions, consignment agreements, or discreet private sales, each method offers unique advantages and challenges. As a gallery owner and art dealer specialising in post-war and contemporary art, I’ve had the privilege of navigating these avenues with collectors, helping them realise the full potential of their assets. Let’s delve into the nuances of these sales methods and the role of galleries like Creed in guiding clients through the complexities of the art market.
Auction Sales: Spectacle and Spotlight
The auction room, with its drama and energy, remains one of the most visible ways to sell art. High-profile houses such as Sotheby’s and Christie’s are synonymous with record-breaking sales and headline grabbing moments. The allure of the auction lies in its transparency and the potential for competitive bidding to drive prices far beyond expectations.
However, auctions come with their own set of limitations. Sellers must navigate considerable fees, often ranging between 15-20%, and the risk of their work not meeting the reserve price. Moreover, the timeline for preparation and the public nature of the sale can be daunting for some collectors. Despite these hurdles, auctions can be ideal for iconic works, blue-chip artists, or pieces likely to spark bidding wars, as seen with Maurizio Cattelan’s 'Comedian' (further reading available here).
Private Sales: Discretion and Control
Private sales offer a completely different dynamic, focusing on confidentiality, negotiation and bespoke marketing. This route appeals to collectors seeking discretion or those with works that cater to a niche audience. In private transactions, there is often greater flexibility in determining terms, timelines and pricing strategies.
The limitation, however, is the lack of competitive pressure that drives auction results. Private sales rely on connecting with the right buyers at the right time, which requires expertise, an extensive network, and a strong understanding of the market. For collectors prioritising privacy and control, private sales are an invaluable option.
Consignment: Partnership with Purpose
Gallery consignments represent a hybrid approach, offering the support of a gallery’s expertise and network while providing a platform to showcase works to targeted audiences. At Creed Gallery, we offer consignment services for post-war and contemporary art, working closely with collectors to curate a tailored sales strategy.
The consignment process allows for more extended exposure to collectors, often yielding thoughtful sales rather than rapid transactions. While this route may take more time than an auction, it ensures the work is presented with the attention it deserves, often achieving results that align closely with the artist’s market trajectory.
Why Choose Creed Gallery?
At Creed Gallery, our focus on post-war and contemporary art means we are deeply connected to a dynamic, ever-evolving market. Our team is dedicated to understanding the nuances of each work, artist and collector’s goals.
We offer both consignment and private sale services, ensuring flexibility and precision in our approach. Whether it’s placing a masterpiece into the perfect collection or securing competitive offers, we bring decades of expertise and a personalised touch to every transaction. By working with us, collectors gain access to an expansive network of buyers, institutional clients and seasoned market insight.
For those considering selling significant works of art, we invite you to contact Creed Gallery to explore your options. Together, we can design a strategy that aligns with your vision and maximises the value of your collection.
Benefits and Limitations: A Comparative View
| Sales Route | Benefits | Limitations |
| Auction | Competitive bidding, high visibility, transparent | Public nature, high fees, risk of unsold lots |
| Private Sale | Discretion, control, bespoke approach | Limited competitive tension, reliance on networks |
| Consignment | Expert curation, targeted exposure | Longer timelines, dependent on gallery marketing |
Selling art is not merely a financial transaction—it’s an art in itself. From the adrenaline of auctions to the nuance of private sales and the curation of consignment, each method offers unique opportunities for collectors to realise the value of their works.
At Creed Gallery, we believe that every piece tells a story, and every collector’s journey deserves careful consideration. By offering bespoke services tailored to the intricacies of post-war and contemporary art, we aim to make this process as rewarding and seamless as possible.
Allow Creed Gallery to help you navigate the art market with expertise and care. Contact us today to discuss how we can assist with your consignment or private sale needs.
Written by Zaid Alexander Badda
Gallery Director, Creed Gallery