The art market is notoriously convoluted and opaque. Large sums of money change hands behind closed doors, artworks enter collections before being seen publicly, often disappearing from view altogether as they enter the cultural purgatory of freeport storage. Staggering auction results can be both exciting and intimidating, implying a right and wrong way to collect art. There is no comprehensive public database to self-educate, and galleries are reluctant to offer works to newcomers. In many ways, these issues are fundamental to the exclusivity the industry thrives on. However, in recent years, there has been a push for a more accessible art market, and new tools, groups and methods of buying are helping collectors to navigate the murky waters and changing the way people acquire art today.
