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Running an art gallery involves many complex processes. This list of the top eight software solutions for art galleries will help you simplify managing artwork, tracking sales, and engaging clients. We'll explore key features of Picture It, ArtCloud, ArtLogic, Artwork Archive, Artbase, GallerySystems (TMS), ArtFundi, and Masterpiece Manager, providing the information you need to choose the best software for art galleries to optimize your business and boost sales.
Running an online art gallery or furniture store presents a unique challenge: bridging the gap between the digital experience and the physical reality of owning a piece. Customers often hesitate to purchase art or furniture online because they can't visualize how it will look in their own homes. This is where Picture It comes in. This innovative augmented reality (AR) plugin, designed specifically for Shopify stores, offers a compelling solution for art galleries, furniture retailers, and Shopify print stores looking to enhance the customer journey and boost sales. By allowing customers to virtually "place" artwork or furniture in their space, Picture It transforms the online browsing experience into a confident purchasing decision. This makes it a valuable tool for any business looking to leverage the power of AR in the competitive online art market, ultimately making it a top contender in our list of software for art galleries.
Picture It stands out with its no-code, one-click installation process, seamlessly integrating with your existing Shopify store. Product variants and dimensions are automatically imported, simplifying setup and management. The core functionality offers immersive AR previews, letting customers "try before they buy" directly from their smartphones or tablets. For an enhanced experience, the optional Virtual Showroom add-on (at an additional $4/month) allows for further customization with personalized preview buttons and backdrop settings, offering a truly bespoke presentation of your pieces. Imagine a potential buyer visualizing your latest sculpture in their living room or a collector previewing a limited-edition print above their fireplace – Picture It makes this a reality.
This software for art galleries tackles the pervasive issue of cart abandonment head-on by reducing purchase uncertainty. When customers can confidently visualize a piece in their own environment, they're more likely to complete the purchase. This translates to higher conversion rates and increased sales. The platform’s success is reflected in its impressive 5-star rating and endorsements from artists and galleries worldwide.
While Picture It excels in its Shopify integration and AR capabilities, its primary limitation is its platform specificity. It's currently designed exclusively for Shopify, which might exclude businesses using other e-commerce platforms. Additionally, while the core AR preview functionality is included in the base price, the more advanced Virtual Showroom features come at an extra cost.
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Picture It offers a compelling way for artists, galleries, and furniture retailers using Shopify to enhance their online presence and drive sales through the power of augmented reality. Its ease of use, combined with its powerful features, makes it a valuable investment for businesses looking to embrace innovative technology and provide a superior customer experience. You can explore Picture It further on: https://www.pictureit.co or try it free for 14-days on Shopify: https://apps.shopify.com/picture-it
ArtCloud is a robust, cloud-based gallery management system explicitly tailored for the complexities of the art world. Whether you're a seasoned gallerist, an emerging artist managing your own sales, a furniture retailer incorporating art into your offerings, or running a Shopify art or print store, ArtCloud offers a centralized platform to streamline operations and enhance client relationships. This software for art galleries goes beyond basic inventory tracking, offering a suite of tools to manage every aspect of your art business, from provenance research and consignment management to sales pipeline tracking and exhibition planning. It consolidates all your essential data – artwork details, artist information, client preferences, and sales history – into a single accessible database. This allows for generating comprehensive reports, tracking sales performance, and managing client communications with unprecedented efficiency. ArtCloud empowers you to make data-driven decisions, nurture collector relationships, and ultimately, grow your business.
Specifically, ArtCloud shines in its ability to manage the nuances of the art market. Features like detailed artwork records, including provenance tracking, are invaluable for galleries and collectors alike. The integrated client relationship management (CRM) system allows you to log communication history, track client preferences, and personalize interactions, fostering stronger connections and repeat business. Furthermore, the sales pipeline tracking and commission management tools simplify financial processes, ensuring accurate accounting and timely payments. For artists and galleries participating in art fairs, the mobile access feature allows for seamless on-the-go management, from updating inventory to processing sales directly from your booth. Even for furniture retailers looking to integrate art sales, or Shopify store owners dealing with art prints, ArtCloud offers a powerful way to manage the specific needs of selling art, integrating inventory, sales, and client data into a single platform.
While ArtCloud's comprehensive features and art-specific focus justify its inclusion in this list of software for art galleries, it’s important to be aware of its potential drawbacks. The platform sits at a higher price point compared to generic CRM or inventory management solutions. While pricing isn't publicly available, expect a subscription model based on your gallery's size and needs. Technical requirements are minimal, as it's a cloud-based system accessible through any modern web browser. However, there might be a learning curve for staff unfamiliar with database management systems. Some users have also reported occasional synchronization issues between devices, a minor inconvenience in an otherwise robust system.
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Implementation Tip: Dedicate time to properly input your existing data into ArtCloud during the initial setup. This will maximize the platform's long-term benefits and reporting accuracy. Take advantage of the available training resources and customer support to familiarize your staff with the system's functionalities.
ArtCloud earns its place as a top contender for gallery management software because it addresses the unique challenges of the art business head-on. Its comprehensive features, art-focused design, and robust reporting capabilities make it a valuable investment for galleries, artists, and other art-related businesses looking to streamline operations, enhance client relationships, and drive growth. Visit their website (https://www.artcloud.com) for more information and to request a demo.
ArtLogic stands out as a veteran in the art gallery software landscape, boasting over two decades of experience serving galleries, artists, and collectors. This robust platform offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline virtually every aspect of gallery management, from inventory tracking and online sales to client communication and website management. For galleries seeking an all-in-one solution, ArtLogic presents a compelling option. It enables galleries to centralize their operations, minimizing the need for multiple disparate systems. Whether you’re managing a prestigious gallery, a burgeoning art space, or even transitioning your Shopify art or print store to a dedicated platform, ArtLogic's features can significantly impact your efficiency and reach.
One of ArtLogic's key strengths lies in its comprehensive inventory management capabilities. The platform allows for detailed cataloging of artworks, including condition reports, provenance information, and location tracking. This meticulous approach simplifies inventory audits and ensures accurate record-keeping. Furthermore, ArtLogic facilitates private online viewing rooms, allowing galleries to curate personalized presentations for clients, enhancing the sales process and fostering stronger relationships. The integrated email marketing tools, complete with analytics, empower galleries to engage their audience effectively and track the success of their campaigns. For those selling across multiple channels, ArtLogic's integration with leading art marketplaces like Artsy and Artnet provides seamless inventory synchronization, broadening your reach and simplifying online sales management. This feature is particularly valuable for galleries also operating Shopify art or print stores, enabling centralized inventory control across different platforms.
A key advantage of ArtLogic for international galleries is its robust support for multi-currency and multiple languages, facilitating seamless transactions and communication with a global clientele. Furthermore, its powerful API allows for custom integrations with other business systems, tailoring the platform to specific needs and maximizing interoperability. This is a particularly valuable feature for established galleries with existing CRM or accounting software.
While ArtLogic offers a wealth of features, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks. The premium pricing structure, while justified by the breadth of features, might be a barrier for smaller galleries or artists just starting out. Some users also find the interface less modern compared to newer, more visually driven software solutions. Finally, implementing ArtLogic requires a dedicated time investment for setup and staff training due to its comprehensive nature.
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ArtLogic earns its place on this list of top software for art galleries due to its comprehensive functionality, powerful integrations, and long-standing reputation in the art world. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the platform offers a robust and scalable solution for galleries looking for a centralized system to manage their entire operation. For more information and to explore pricing options, visit the ArtLogic website: https://www.artlogic.net
Artwork Archive is a cloud-based art management software specifically designed to streamline operations for art galleries, individual artists, and other art businesses. This platform shines with its accessible, user-friendly design, making it a perfect fit for smaller galleries, emerging artists, furniture retailers dealing in art pieces, and Shopify art or print stores looking for an affordable yet effective way to manage their inventory, client relationships, and overall business analytics. Whether you're struggling with spreadsheets or seeking a more robust solution than basic inventory trackers, Artwork Archive may be the ideal tool to elevate your art business. This software for art galleries allows users to easily manage all aspects of their art, from inventory and contacts to sales and exhibitions.
One of the key strengths of Artwork Archive is its straightforward inventory management system. You can catalog each piece with detailed records, including images, provenance, exhibition history, and even condition reports. This is crucial for galleries, furniture retailers with art inventory, and Shopify stores selling art or prints, allowing for efficient tracking of pieces across various locations and platforms. The integrated image storage keeps visuals readily accessible, simplifying online showcasing and sales processes. Furthermore, its contact management system centralizes client information, fostering stronger relationships with collectors and facilitating targeted marketing efforts. For artists and galleries dealing with consignments, Artwork Archive provides tools to track agreements, manage deadlines, and generate reports, reducing administrative overhead. The platform also offers public profile options, allowing galleries and artists to showcase their inventory online and connect with a wider audience, a feature particularly valuable for Shopify art stores looking to expand their reach. Location and exhibition tracking adds another layer of organizational efficiency, vital for galleries participating in art fairs or managing multiple exhibition spaces.
While pricing information isn't readily available and requires contacting Artwork Archive directly, the platform is generally recognized for its competitive pricing, making it a more affordable alternative to enterprise-level solutions. This is especially attractive for smaller galleries and individual artists who may find the cost of more complex software prohibitive. The user-friendly interface requires minimal training, allowing teams to get up and running quickly. A robust mobile experience enables on-the-go management, making it convenient for updating inventory, managing contacts, or generating reports from any location. Security is a top priority, with Artwork Archive emphasizing data protection and secure access.
However, compared to premium gallery management solutions, Artwork Archive offers fewer advanced features and limited customization options, which might not fully satisfy the complex needs of larger galleries or established art businesses with highly specific workflows. Integration capabilities with third-party platforms are also less robust than some competitors, potentially requiring manual data transfer in some cases.
For galleries or artists migrating from existing systems, Artwork Archive offers data import tools to streamline the transition. Implementing the software is generally straightforward, with readily available resources and support to guide users through the setup process. If you’re seeking a user-friendly, affordable, and reliable solution for managing your art business, Artwork Archive deserves serious consideration. Its focus on practicality and ease of use makes it a valuable tool for those looking to streamline their operations and enhance their engagement with the art world. You can explore their offerings further on their website: https://www.artworkarchive.com
Artbase is a comprehensive gallery management system specifically designed for the nuanced needs of the art world. Unlike generic software for art galleries, Artbase caters to artists, galleries, furniture retailers, Shopify art stores, and Shopify print stores by offering specialized tools for inventory management, client relationship management (CRM), and sales tracking. It’s a robust solution built with input from art professionals, making it well-suited for managing the complexities of high-value artwork, from provenance tracking to sophisticated reporting. This focus on the specific needs of the art market is what earns Artbase a spot on this list.
Imagine effortlessly managing your entire inventory, from individual paintings and sculptures to entire furniture collections. Artbase allows you to catalog each piece with detailed information, including provenance, exhibition history, artist details, and even high-resolution images. This comprehensive cataloging not only streamlines your internal operations but also provides valuable information for potential buyers, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the artwork. Furthermore, the advanced CRM functionality within Artbase lets you build and nurture relationships with clients, tracking their preferences, purchase history, and even linking specific clients to artworks they've shown interest in. This feature is particularly beneficial for galleries looking to personalize their client interactions and build long-term relationships. For Shopify art and print stores, Artbase’s integration capabilities (though not explicitly stated, the flexible architecture suggests potential for integration) can streamline inventory syncing and order processing, reducing manual work and potential errors.
Artbase's sales management features simplify the process from offer to invoice, including payment tracking and reporting. This functionality is particularly helpful for managing high-value transactions where detailed documentation is crucial. The platform's custom reporting tools empower galleries and retailers with business intelligence, allowing them to analyze sales trends, identify best-selling artists or items, and make data-driven decisions to optimize their business strategies. For businesses with multiple locations, Artbase offers multi-location inventory management, ensuring accurate tracking of artworks across different spaces.
While Artbase is powerful software for art galleries, it’s worth noting its pros and cons. On the plus side, it is highly customizable, allowing galleries to tailor the system to their specific workflows. It also prioritizes security and data integrity, crucial for managing valuable art assets. Detailed permission settings allow for different levels of access for different staff roles, enhancing security and control. On the downside, Artbase's extensive feature set can lead to a steeper learning curve compared to simpler gallery management solutions. Its cost structure is also higher, reflecting its advanced capabilities. Finally, the platform’s design is primarily desktop-focused, with less emphasis on the mobile experience.
Unfortunately, specific pricing and technical requirements are not readily available on the Artbase website. It is recommended to contact Artbase directly for detailed information about pricing and system requirements to ensure it aligns with your budget and technical infrastructure. For implementation, consider dedicating time for staff training to fully leverage the platform's features. While the learning curve might be initially steeper, mastering Artbase’s functionality can significantly enhance your gallery’s operations and efficiency. For comparison, consider exploring other art gallery management systems like Artwork Archive or GallerySystem, especially if mobile accessibility or a simpler interface is a priority.
To explore Artbase further and discover how it can benefit your art business, visit their website: https://www.artbase.com
GallerySystems' The Museum System (TMS) stands apart in the realm of software for art galleries, offering a truly institutional-grade approach to collection management. While its primary user base consists of museums and large institutions, TMS has found a niche among prominent commercial galleries that require a highly sophisticated and comprehensive system for managing complex collections. If your gallery handles museum-quality pieces, works with institutional loans, or needs robust documentation for provenance research and scholarly collaboration, TMS deserves serious consideration. This software is not for everyone, however, as its advanced features come with a higher price tag and require a greater investment in training and implementation.
TMS excels in providing meticulous cataloging with extensive metadata fields and controlled vocabularies, allowing you to document every facet of your artwork, from provenance and exhibition history to conservation records and detailed condition reports. This level of documentation goes far beyond the needs of most commercial galleries but becomes indispensable when dealing with high-value items, complex installations, or frequent loans and exhibitions. Its integrated conservation and condition reporting tools allow for meticulous tracking of an artwork's condition over time, crucial for preservation and insurance purposes.
For galleries actively involved in loans and exhibitions, TMS shines with its sophisticated scheduling capabilities and comprehensive loan management features. This includes managing incoming and outgoing loans, tracking insurance and shipping details, and generating condition reports. Furthermore, its rights and reproduction management features ensure compliance with copyright and artist agreements, an increasingly vital aspect of managing intellectual property in the digital age. TMS also integrates seamlessly with digital asset management systems, allowing you to link high-resolution images and other digital media directly to your catalog records.
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Implementing TMS is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and dedicated resources. Working closely with GallerySystems' implementation team is essential. Consider a phased rollout, starting with core cataloging functions and gradually integrating other modules as needed. Thorough staff training is crucial for successful adoption.
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While other collection management software options exist for art galleries, few offer the depth and breadth of TMS. ArtBase, for instance, caters more to commercial galleries with a stronger focus on sales and client management, while TMS prioritizes comprehensive cataloging and institutional-level documentation. If your needs are primarily sales-driven, ArtBase or similar solutions might be more appropriate. However, if you require the robust documentation and museum-standard practices that TMS provides, the investment may be well worth it.
Website: https://www.gallerysystems.com
TMS earns its spot on this list by offering unparalleled collection management capabilities for galleries dealing with high-value art, complex exhibitions, and demanding institutional relationships. While it's a significant investment, it delivers a level of control and documentation unmatched by most other software for art galleries. For artists, furniture retailers, and Shopify art/print stores dealing with large inventories and requiring meticulous record-keeping, especially those interacting with museums or other institutions, the power and precision of TMS may prove invaluable. However, smaller galleries or those focused primarily on sales may find its extensive feature set and cost prohibitive.
ArtFundi is a cloud-based gallery management software designed to streamline operations and enhance client engagement for modern art businesses. This platform offers a comprehensive suite of tools covering everything from inventory management and client relations to sales tracking and exhibition planning, all within a user-friendly interface. Whether you're an independent artist, a small gallery, a furniture retailer incorporating art pieces, or a Shopify art or print store, ArtFundi offers functionalities to help you manage your art business effectively. This software for art galleries stands out with its emphasis on user experience and accessibility, particularly its robust mobile capabilities.
One of ArtFundi's key strengths lies in its mobile optimization. Gallery staff can access and update crucial information on tablets or smartphones, whether they're in client meetings, at art fairs, or working remotely. This real-time access facilitates seamless communication, quick follow-ups, and efficient sales processes. Imagine showcasing a digital portfolio of artwork, accessing client preferences, and even processing sales directly from your tablet during an art fair—ArtFundi makes this possible. For furniture retailers displaying art alongside their furniture, this mobile functionality allows sales staff to quickly access details about artists, provenance, and pricing, enhancing the customer experience. Shopify art and print store owners can also benefit from real-time inventory management and sales tracking, ensuring accurate information across both their online and physical presence.
ArtFundi provides core features essential to any art business: artist and artwork management with digital portfolio creation, client relationship management (CRM) with communication tracking, sales pipeline and opportunity management, exhibition planning tools, and virtual viewing rooms. Furthermore, its integration with accounting systems streamlines financial management, reducing manual data entry and ensuring accurate reporting. This feature is particularly helpful for galleries and retailers managing complex sales transactions and international shipping.
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(Pricing and technical requirements information was not provided and could not be located on the provided website. Contact ArtFundi directly for specific pricing and technical requirements.)
Implementation tip: Begin by thoroughly cataloging your existing inventory and client information. ArtFundi's intuitive interface simplifies data import, but accurate initial data ensures a smooth transition and maximizes the platform's benefits. For Shopify users, explore potential integration options to streamline data flow between your e-commerce platform and ArtFundi.
ArtFundi’s emphasis on mobile accessibility, user-friendly design, and comprehensive features makes it a worthy contender for galleries looking for modern, efficient software for art galleries. While it’s a newer player in the market, its proactive development and focus on user feedback position it as a promising solution for the future. For galleries seeking a mobile-first, intuitive platform, ArtFundi offers a compelling alternative to established gallery management solutions. Visit ArtFundi to learn more.
Masterpiece Manager is a strong contender for small to mid-sized art galleries seeking comprehensive software for art galleries without the hefty price tag and complexity of enterprise solutions. It offers an all-in-one platform encompassing inventory management, client relationship management (CRM), and website building tools, enabling galleries to manage their entire operation from a centralized hub. This integrated approach streamlines workflows, reduces duplicate data entry, and ultimately frees up time for galleries to focus on what they do best: connecting artists with collectors. This software is particularly useful for those transitioning from spreadsheets or simpler systems looking for a more robust and professional solution.
Imagine easily updating your online gallery with new acquisitions directly from your inventory database, automatically reflecting changes in availability and location. With Masterpiece Manager, this is a reality. The platform's integrated system ensures consistency across your online presence and physical inventory. You can create attractive gallery and exhibition pages with the built-in website builder, simplifying the process of showcasing your collection online. Furthermore, the integrated CRM allows you to track client interactions, preferences, and purchase history, fostering stronger relationships and enabling targeted communication. Secure online sales capabilities with integrated payment processing open up new avenues for revenue generation, particularly valuable for reaching a broader audience beyond your physical location.
While pricing information isn't readily available, Masterpiece Manager emphasizes affordability and accessibility for smaller galleries. This makes it a viable alternative to more expensive, complex solutions that may offer a wider range of features but are often overkill for smaller operations. For artists, furniture retailers, and Shopify art/print stores looking to expand into the gallery space or streamline their existing operations, Masterpiece Manager provides a user-friendly platform to manage their inventory, client relationships, and online sales.
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Masterpiece Manager earns its place on this list by offering a practical and accessible solution for smaller galleries looking to consolidate their operations and enhance their online presence. The platform's focus on simplicity and affordability doesn't compromise its functionality, providing a robust suite of tools to manage inventory, clients, and sales effectively. Visit the Masterpiece Manager website to learn more.
Finding the perfect software for art galleries can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This list has explored eight leading solutions, from established players like GallerySystems (TMS) and Masterpiece Manager to newer platforms like Picture It and ArtFundi. Each offers a unique set of features catering to different needs and budgets. Whether you're a Shopify art store, a Shopify print store, a furniture retailer incorporating art into your offerings, an individual artist, or a large established gallery, the right software can revolutionize your operations.
Key takeaways from this overview include the importance of considering your inventory size. For extensive collections, robust systems like Artbase or ArtLogic might be ideal. If client relationship management is paramount, ArtCloud excels in that area. For those seeking a balance of features and affordability, Artwork Archive or ArtFundi offer compelling solutions. Remember to carefully weigh the pros and cons of each software for art galleries based on your specific requirements.
Your next step is to delve deeper into the platforms that resonate most with your gallery's needs. Visit their websites, explore demos, and reach out to their sales teams to discuss your specific use case. Consider factors like ease of use, integration capabilities with existing systems (like Shopify), customer support, and pricing when making your decision. Implementing new software requires thoughtful planning and training. Ensure your team is on board and ready to embrace the new system for a seamless transition.
The right software for art galleries can streamline your processes, enhance client relationships, and ultimately drive sales. By investing in the right tools and embracing the power of technology, you’re not just managing your art, you’re empowering its reach and securing the future of your gallery in 2025 and beyond. Embrace the possibilities and unlock your gallery’s full potential.
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