How do I run a studio sale auction?

What are studio sale auctions?

Studio sale auctions are auctions run directly by artists, selling artwork straight from their studios. These sales are often used as archive clearances or opportunities to offer works outside of traditional gallery settings.

How do I set up my own studio sale auction?

Setting up a studio sale auction is quick and easy:

1. Create an account on Indy.auction here. 

2. Build your auction – customise branding, upload your lots, and set your auction rules.

3. Go live – your auction can be ready in minutes.

What are the fees?

• indy.auction has no upfront or subscription fees

• Fees are based on your account tier, with a percentage taken from each item sold.

• You can choose to either absorb or pass on these fees to the buyer.

Will you promote my auction?

indy.auction is a product of The Auction Collective, which offers a range of promotional opportunities such as:

• Homepage features

• Social media highlights

• Editorial coverage

However, please note that:

• Not every auction is promoted due to the high volume of auctions hosted on the platform. 

• All auctions are reviewed against our curation policy, and sellers will be contacted if eligible.

We strongly recommend that sellers create their own marketing strategy to maximise visibility. For guidance, see our auction marketing, step by step guide.

Why host a studio sale?

Artists and creatives use studio sales for many reasons, including:

• Raising funds for a new project

• Supplementing or replacing an open studio event

• Clearing space before a studio move

• Showcasing previously exhibited work

• Selling older works or archival material (drawings, studies, project material)

• Running a private auction for a dedicated group of collectors

What are the benefits of a studio sale auction?

Hosting a studio sale auction offers several advantages:

• Competitive bidding with no upper price limit

• Clearance sale opportunities with no published results

• Mass marketing exposure

• Access to new buyers and underbidders

• A fixed deadline for efficient sales

• Professional auction presentation

• A dedicated webpage featuring your work, socials, and website

• Real-time reporting and bidder analytics

• Access to bidder data for future engagement

Why do collectors like studio sales? 

Collectors are drawn to studio sales because they provide opportunities to:

• Acquire artworks from artists they love but missed in previous exhibitions

• Purchase pieces never before shown

• Bid on works with accessible starting prices

How does shipping work? 

You will be responsible for shipping artworks. This is arranged between you and the buyer following the sale. Each lot has a dedicated field for shipping, for you to add your shipping process or fees. We recommend adding contact information in case bidders have additional questions about shipping.