Whether you're acquiring your first blue-chip piece or consigning works from your collection, this section covers everything you need to know about purchasing and selling through Calder Contemporary: from payment options and shipping to our consignment process and valuation services.
Table of contents
Buying Art
How do I purchase artwork from Calder Contemporary?
You can purchase through several channels:
-
Online: Browse our website where prices are displayed openly, with full e-commerce functionality for direct purchase
-
Appointment: Schedule a private viewing at our London gallery for personalised consultation
-
Enquiry: Contact our team of specialists directly for specific artworks or guidance on building your collection
What range do your artworks fall into?
Our inventory spans from accessible editions to high-value pieces. This strategic offering reflects our commitment to serving both first-time buyers entering the contemporary art market and seasoned collectors seeking investment-grade pieces.
Do you offer payment plans or financing?
We're always happy to discuss payment methods that work for your situation. Please contact our team to explore available options for your purchase.
Can I reserve an artwork whilst I make my decision?
Yes, we can arrange to reserve an artwork for you. Please reach out to our team and we'll be happy to accommodate your needs whilst you make your decision.
What is your return policy?
Our priority is ensuring every collector is completely satisfied before completing a transaction. Whilst we prefer to address any concerns before purchase, we're open to discussing whether a return makes sense for all parties involved. Please contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship internationally. We handle all logistics professionally, including secure payment processing, professional packaging, and insured shipping to ensure your acquisition arrives safely wherever you are in the world.
How are artworks packaged and shipped?
We handle all logistics professionally, including secure payment processing, professional packaging, and insured shipping to ensure your acquisition arrives safely.
Can I view an artwork in person before purchasing?
Absolutely. We encourage appointment-based viewings at our London gallery where you can experience works in person and receive expert consultation from our team.
Do you offer art advisory services?
Yes, our team provides comprehensive art consultation services including expert guidance on pricing, demand assessment, and collection development strategies, whether you're acquiring your first blue-chip piece or expanding an established portfolio.
How do I know if an artwork is a good investment?
Our expertise combines art historical significance with market analysis. We provide clear market context, including edition details, provenance, auction records, and recent performance data to help you make confident acquisition decisions. We emphasise both the cultural significance and investment potential of each work.
What documentation do I receive with my purchase?
Purchases from Calder Contemporary come with a certificate of authenticity, detailed provenance records, and any additional documentation relevant to the artwork's history and authenticity.
Selling Art
Can I sell my artwork through Calder Contemporary?
Absolutely. We assist clients in selling artworks by providing authentication, valuation, and marketing services to reach potential buyers. We specialise in contemporary blue-chip art and excel at placing works by established masters including Banksy, Andy Warhol, David Hockney, and Damien Hirst.
How does the consignment process work?
Step 1, Connect With Us: Submit your artwork for specialist evaluation by our contemporary art experts. Include high-quality images and any available provenance details to ensure accurate assessment. Within 48 hours of approval, you'll receive a consignment estimate based on current demand and recent sales data.
Step 2, Strategic Art Marketing: Your artwork receives targeted exposure through our multi-channel approach: direct outreach to our curated collector database, prominent placement on digital channels, and strategic promotion via social media and industry networks. Our strategy ensures your artwork reaches both established collectors and emerging buyers actively seeking to buy.
Step 3, Sale: Throughout the process, you'll receive detailed updates on enquiries, viewings, and offers. Once you accept an offer, we handle all logistics seamlessly, from secure payment processing to professional packaging and insured shipping. Our streamlined approach ensures you receive payment promptly whilst the buyer receives their acquisition safely.
What makes Calder Contemporary a good choice for selling my art?
-
Specialisation: Deep understanding of contemporary blue-chip art markets ensures your works are positioned with collectors who understand their lasting value
-
Transparent Service: Clear commission structures and target return ranges established upfront, with no hidden fees or surprise deductions
-
Tailored Approach: We hand-pick channels that make most sense for your artwork to achieve optimal results within your preferred timeframe
-
Personalised Attention: Unlike larger auction houses, we provide regular communication throughout the process
-
Global Network: Extensive network of art enthusiasts and collectors ensures your artwork reaches its intended audience
What commission do you charge for consignment?
We establish clear commission structures upfront with no hidden fees or surprise deductions. Contact us for specific details based on your artwork.
How long does it typically take to sell an artwork?
The timeline varies depending on the artwork and market demand. Selling with us can be as quick as several days for highly sought-after pieces, although our priority is ensuring everyone is satisfied with the transaction and process. We provide targeted exposure through our multi-channel approach, including direct outreach to our curated collector database and strategic promotion via digital channels. Throughout the process, you'll receive detailed updates on enquiries, viewings, and offers.
Do you purchase artworks outright, or only on consignment?
We offer both options depending on the artwork and your preferences. Whether you're interested in an outright purchase or consignment arrangement, we're happy to discuss the best approach for your situation. Visit our selling page or contact our team directly to explore which option works best for you.
What types of artworks are you currently seeking?
We are particularly seeking works by renowned artists including David Hockney, Banksy, Damien Hirst, Gerhard Richter, Yayoi Kusama and Bridget Riley. If you are considering selling, we would be pleased to discuss your piece.
Do I need to provide provenance documentation when selling?
Providing any available provenance documentation (certificates of authenticity, previous sale records, exhibition history) strengthens the authentication process and can enhance your artwork's marketability and value. We'll work with whatever documentation you have available.
Valuations & Appraisals
Does Calder Contemporary offer appraisals or valuations?
Yes, we offer appraisal services to assess the value of artworks, taking into account factors such as authenticity, provenance, and market demand. Our specialists provide confidential valuations combining recent auction data with current collector demand to give you accurate market positioning.
How do I request a valuation?
Contact our team via our website enquiry form, email, or phone with high-quality images of your artwork and any available documentation. We'll provide an initial assessment and guide you through the next steps.
Is there a fee for valuations?
We generally offer complimentary valuations, primarily for clients considering selling their artwork with us. Our specialists provide confidential assessments combining recent auction data with current collector demand to give you accurate market positioning. However, we reserve the right to decline valuation requests that fall outside our area of expertise or collecting focus. Contact our team with details about your artwork to discuss whether we can assist with your valuation needs.
What information do I need to provide for a valuation?
High-quality photographs of the artwork (front, back, signature, any labels or markings), dimensions, medium, any certificates of authenticity, provenance documentation, and purchase information if available.
How accurate are your valuations?
Our valuations combine expert knowledge of contemporary art markets with current auction data and collector demand patterns. We provide realistic market positioning based on comparable sales and current market conditions.