As the art world continues to embrace digital transformation, virtual gallery software has become essential for artists, curators, and gallery owners. These platforms enable you to showcase artwork online, create immersive viewing experiences, and connect with art enthusiasts globally. Here's a comprehensive look at the top eight virtual art gallery solutions available today.

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1. Picture It

Picture It stands out as a premier solution specifically designed for art galleries and artists selling their work online. What sets this platform apart is its dual functionality:

• Augmented Reality (AR) Integration: Allows potential buyers to visualize artwork in their own spaces using their smartphone or tablet. This feature dramatically increases buyer confidence by letting them see exactly how a piece will look in their home before purchasing.
• Virtual Showroom Creator: Enables galleries to curate complete exhibitions with customizable wall colors, room settings, and lighting. Art pieces can be arranged in virtual spaces that mirror physical gallery layouts or create entirely new viewing experiences.

For Shopify users, Picture It is available as a seamless integration through the Shopify App Store, making it particularly valuable for galleries that have chosen Shopify as their e-commerce platform.

Starting price: $19/month

2. Artland

Artland combines virtual gallery functionality with social networking features designed specifically for the art community. The platform offers:

• 3D exhibition spaces that replicate real gallery environments
• Tools for collectors to catalog their collections
• A social network connecting artists, galleries, and collectors
• Virtual gallery openings and events

The platform has gained particular traction among contemporary art galleries and emerging artists looking to build their collector base.

Starting price: $69/month

3. Kunstmatrix

Kunstmatrix offers sophisticated 3D exhibition spaces with impressive customization options. The platform provides:

• Multiple gallery templates with various architectural styles
• Support for different art formats including paintings, sculptures, and digital art
• Easy-to-use curation tools with drag-and-drop functionality
• Visitor analytics to track engagement

The platform scales from individual artists to major institutions, with pricing tiers to match different needs.

Starting price: €15/month (approximately $17/month)

4. Artsteps

Artsteps delivers a comprehensive virtual exhibition creation tool that focuses on accessibility and ease of use:

• Intuitive interface requiring minimal technical expertise
• VR compatibility for immersive viewing experiences
• Interactive elements like audio guides and video embeds
• Sharing capabilities across social media platforms

The platform offers free basic options along with premium tiers for professional galleries and institutions.

Starting price: Free (basic plan), $10/month (premium)

5. New Art City

New Art City specializes in digital and new media art exhibitions with unique features:

• Support for complex digital artworks and web-based art
• Multi-user environments where visitors can interact
• Experimental exhibition spaces beyond traditional gallery layouts
• Integration with blockchain for digital art authentication

This platform has become particularly popular among digital artists and forward-thinking contemporary galleries.

Starting price: Free for artists, custom pricing for institutions

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Choosing the Right Virtual Gallery Software

When selecting the best solution for your needs, consider these factors:

• Technical requirements: Some platforms require more technical expertise than others
• Art formats supported: Ensure the platform handles your specific medium (paintings, sculptures, digital art, etc.)
• E-commerce integration: If selling artwork is a priority, platforms like Picture It that integrate with e-commerce systems offer advantages
• Audience experience: Consider whether you want viewers to simply browse or have interactive experiences
• Budget constraints: Options range from free basic tools to premium enterprise solutions

For galleries already using Shopify or planning to, Picture It (https://apps.shopify.com/picture-it) offers particularly seamless integration, combining powerful virtual showroom features with augmented reality tools that help convert browsers into buyers.

Conclusion

The virtual gallery software landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with each platform offering unique strengths. Whether you're an independent artist looking to showcase your work or an established gallery expanding into digital spaces, these eight solutions represent the cutting edge of virtual exhibition technology. By carefully assessing your specific needs against the features offered, you can select a platform that not only displays your artwork effectively but also creates meaningful connections with your audience in the digital realm.

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