Avoiding the risks associated with buying art online

ArtLab—www.artlab-gallery.co.uk—is an online gallery based in London that provides consumers with the option to buy or borrow works of art from a collection of authentic paintings, photographs and sculptures by emerging and established contemporary artists.

ArtLab is conscious that coupled with the convenience of buying or leasing art online are a number of risks concerning authenticity and provenance.  With the art market showing signs of shrugging off the paralysing impact of the recession and the minimal overheads associated with online commerce, these risks are especially prescient.  Some are taking advantage of this renewed interest in art by selling fake or copied works through websites or auction sites.  Further, ArtLab’s knowledge of the industry indicates that galleries and dealers can be cautious to authenticate works bought through an unrecognised third-party.

ArtLab eliminates the risks associated with acquiring art online by working directly with artists and galleries to source original and limited edition contemporary art as well as supplying certificates of authenticity signed by the artist to confirm the work’s veracity.  The result is a library of progressive and distinctive works from which our clients can buy or borrow free of risk.

Ivan Tennant, director of ArtLab, comments: “As is the case with buying anything else online, it is essential that consumers protect themselves from the risks associated with purchasing art on the Internet.  ArtLab is proud to allow consumers to buy or borrow authentic works of contemporary art through ArtLab’s website with confidence and ease.”

For more information or interviews with ArtLab’s director, Ivan Tennant, please contact: Will Davies, Online Gallery Manager - will@artlab-gallery.co.uk / 020 7739 3007

Notes to editors