We are all familiar with the traditional concept of the “starving artist “ who sacrifices all material well-being for the sake of their art. Finding a route to market and a location to showcase their work can be one of the most difficult issues that they face.

One recent Glasgow School of Art graduate though has come up with an idea however which is making that route to market and success a whole lot easier. In June of this year, Ali Smith and his business partner Suzie Carter founded Art Pistol. Based out of the Digital Enterprise Glasgow hub at City of Glasgow College, they have developed a concept which provides :

– an “uncomplicated online gallery” and platform for artists to sell their work – both undiscovered and established artists from all disciplines
– a bespoke consultancy service to commercial businesses such as hotels, restaurants who may be looking for art for their interiors either on a purchase, rental or commission basis
– the organisation of pop-up exhibitions and displays

Due to its web base, there are no restrictions on the numbers of artists that Art Pistol can profile. The
 internet and hence global reach of the business means that the potential customer base is much greater than with any traditional retailer or local art gallery. Also, the fact that there are no overheads for premises means that the commission costs to the buyer are much lower than with traditional galleries and retailers.