Art Scam Primer

If you’ve been around as an artist for at least two years you’re aware of how out of control the scams are getting. But in case anyone needs to hear it,

Here is a guide no one asked for::

Phrases of which to be weary:

“I recently came across your work and was genuinely impressed by the…” with only a vague mention of your actual work (or worse- name) I can search the word ‘genuinely’ in my email and these pop up like desperate ghosts of authenticity

“NFT” literally any mention at all, ever. Unless you are a well known nft artist (all five of you)

“The fee to hang the work will be…”

“I’m a curator and recently came upon your work” This one is a vague maybe. Reach out to the approved name on Instagram and ask for confirmation. (Ironically this is a good way to meet the real person)

Any mention of you paying them (unless you requested information to enter a prize/residency/grant) These places will not reach out to ‘invite’ you to apply

Sudden aggressive requests for more than one work (over $10k you usually have a deeper discussion)

Straightforward strangely worded “do you commission?” Without any mention of what they want or who you are. Ask for a phone call to discuss.

And hilariously, “I like your product, what is the cost?”

Residencies in France and Italy that ask you to apply

All this said- if you want to pay a vanity gallery to show or pay for a residency in Europe, that’s all cool. I just think artists should go in with eyes open knowing it won’t further a certain type of career they might expect.

The best message to get:: “I like the work, are you free to jump on a call to discuss?” (Even then, make sure the legit account is following you)