Register now for our next workshop 

We will show you tips and tricks on varnishing, stretching canvas, aligning canvas, invoicing, pricing your works, and building your own shadow gap frames at low cost. 

Next date: Thursday,
November 20, 2025, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.  
Cost:  250 € (including VAT)   
Where? 
Little Van Gogh,
Berck-sur-Mer-Str. 20,
53604 Bad Honnef,
Germany  

register now

If you have any questions, please send an email to info@littlevangogh.de.

How to Determine the Price of Artwork

We are often asked for advice or recommendations on how to price artwork. While we generally leave pricing decisions to our artists, we are happy to share a few non-binding tips based on our 20+ years of experience in the art industry. 

 Basic Pricing Formula "Width plus height multiplied by the artist factor"

 Formula: (Height + Width) x Artist Factor = Sale Price 

 Example: An artwork measuring 80 x 100 cm with an artist factor of 4 would be calculated as follows: (80 + 100) x 4 = €720 

This formula not only accounts for the size of the artwork (and associated costs) but also incorporates the artist's recognition and success through the “factor.” Originating in the Impressionist era, this straightforward yet effective method can be applied to oil, acrylic, or watercolor paintings. 

How to Determine the Right Artist Factor 

While the formula itself is simple, the challenge lies in setting the appropriate factor for your artwork. 

Early Career: Artists at the beginning of their careers should start with a lower factor, typically between 3 and 5. This factor can increase over time as the artist gains recognition and success. 

Market Value: An artist's market value rises with their popularity. Factors such as media coverage, mentorship from renowned artists, or awards significantly boost an artist's profile and, consequently, their factor. Additionally, timing and connections play a critical role. Having patrons or sponsors is still a significant advantage in the art world. 

Starting Advice: For artists who have not yet sold any works, we recommend beginning with a factor of 3 to 5. Keep in mind that lowering prices later is not advisable, as art is not a utility item. Buyers expect their purchases to retain value, and price reductions can undermine credibility and erode trust among collectors. Instead, start with a price level that you are confident will result in sales. A price that leads to regular sales is a good price.

 Balancing Price and Sales: Artists should aim to strike a balance between “selling frequently at a lower factor” and “selling less frequently at a higher factor.” Setting prices too high from the start can deter buyers. Moreover, it’s essential to ensure that artworks of the same size are priced consistently, as per the formula. Ultimately, success depends on finding collectors and art enthusiasts willing to purchase your work at the set price. 

Artist Factors at Little Van Gogh 

What artist factor works best for corporate art exhibitions? Based on our sales statistics, our concept of “rotating art exhibitions in companies” achieves strong sales for artworks within an artist factor range of 3 to 13. Most sales occur within the 3–8 range. If your artist factor exceeds 15, our concept may no longer be suitable for you. 

 Discounts on Artwork Purchases 

What if a buyer asks for a discount? Buyers sometimes negotiate discounts, especially when purchasing multiple pieces. Discounts can be granted, but they should remain moderate. All discount requests are referred to the artist, as price adjustments can only be made with their consent to preserve the artwork's value.