Comments on: When you’re not getting paid after the sale of your art

By: Katherine

Katherine — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:21:22 +0000

Yes, I do. I think contracts are essential in limiting risk in these circumstances. I have had to turn over accounts to my collection agency, which still, unfortunately, has not resulted in payment. I was wondering if there was any other advice anyone had to share besides securing an attorney.

By: Alyson Stanfield

Alyson Stanfield — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 20:26:41 +0000

Katherine: Do you have a contract?

By: Katherine

Katherine — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 20:12:07 +0000

But what do you do after you’ve decided the gallery isn’t going to pay you? What is the best legal avenues to take?

By: Alyson Stanfield

Alyson Stanfield — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:49:17 +0000

Jamie: I’m a very good nudger.

Cory: Yes, this is very important for commissions.

Sari: That situation didn’t even fit into my thinking, but of course you’re right. If you’re not doing your part, the galleries might consider that a breach of contract.

By: Sari Grove

Sari Grove — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:25:10 +0000

I know a gallery who did not pay an artist because the artist was also selling directly from his studio, which was not too far away, was selling alot directly & did not give the gallery anything- & was adamant that it was his right. Galleries may consider selling without them to be the equivalent of the artist not getting paid …Just a heads up as to motivations- artists sometimes have to analyze why they are not getting paid in order to mediate effectively…

By: cory huff

cory huff — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:38:44 +0000

If you’re selling directly to a collector, then ask for half up front (if it’s commission for example). If your selling on consignment or through a gallery, you’re at their mercy to a certain extent. I’d recommend doing homework on them beforehand, and I so agree with the idea of getting a contract. It’s the only thing that will save your bacon if it turns into a legal dispute.

Thanks for this Alyson!

By: Jamie

Jamie — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:07:17 +0000

Great timing, as this reminds me that I need to deal with my own situation! I’ve known for awhile that I need to do something about it but have been dragging my feet since it’s my old workplace AND the only way I’m selling my work at the moment. (Although not a lot or regularly.) Thanks for the nudge!