How to Sell Thomas Kinkade Paintings ,Thomas Kinkade, often called the “Painter of Light,” was a landscape artist whose work became highly popular in the United States. It’s estimated that roughly 1 in every 20 homes owns a Kinkade painting. Unlike many traditional artists, Kinkade produced numerous reproductions of his canvases throughout his lifetime.
Since his passing in April 2012, many of his original paintings have increased in value. The resale price of a Kinkade painting largely depends on whether the work is sold out or no longer available through the publisher. To get the best price for your Kinkade painting, it’s important to research the current market, understand which editions are most valuable, and consider consulting art appraisers or specialty auction houses.
1 .Research the type of Kinkade painting you own.
Step 1: Check Availability on the Official Publisher
Before selling a Kinkade painting, verify whether it is still available on ThomasKinkade.com. Paintings no longer available through the publisher are typically more valuable on the resale market.
Keywords: availability, publisher, resale value
Reference: Thomas Kinkade Official Site
Step 2: Identify the Category of Your Painting
Knowing the type of Kinkade painting you own is critical for estimating value and targeting the right buyers. Common categories include:
- Original Canvas Paintings
- Originals of pieces later reproduced.
- Often the most valuable of all Kinkade paintings.
- Original Plein Air Paintings
- Oil landscapes painted in a single day.
- Unpublished, with prices varying widely.
- Original Paintings on Paper
- Rare oil paintings on paper.
- Typically more valuable than sketches.
- Original Sketches
- Usually charcoal sketches on paper.
- High value if preliminary to popular paintings or includes color.
- Studio and Renaissance Proofs
- Feature added highlights and extra brush strokes to resemble originals.
- Gallery Proofs
- Manufactured paintings with highlights and an embossed remarque.
- More valuable than standard artist proofs.
- Artist or Examination Proofs
- Manufactured paintings based on Kinkade originals.
- Highlighted by a master highlighter for enhanced detail.
Keywords: painting categories, original, plein air, proofs, sketches
Reference: Guide to Thomas Kinkade Paintings – Heritage Auctions
2 .Pay for an appraisal of your painting.
Step 1: Contact a Professional Art Appraiser
To accurately determine the value of your Kinkade painting, reach out to a licensed art appraiser who handles collectible or contemporary art. Ask specifically if they have experience appraising Thomas Kinkade works.
Step 2: Obtain a Written Appraisal
Request a written appraisal from the art appraiser. This official document can serve as proof of value when selling your painting, whether through galleries, auction houses, or private buyers. A formal appraisal increases buyer confidence and can help secure a fair price.
Keywords: art appraisal, Thomas Kinkade, professional evaluation, written appraisal
Reference: How to Get Your Art Appraised – Artsy
3.Take excellent photos of your painting.
Step 1: Use Proper Lighting
Ensure your painting is well-lit when taking photos. Natural, even lighting is best to avoid shadows or glare that can distort the colors and details of the artwork.
Step 2: Capture Multiple Angles
Take photos from all perspectives:
- Framed Shot: Show the painting in its frame.
- Gallery Shot: Display the painting hanging on a wall to provide context and scale.
- Close-Ups: Highlight details, brushwork, or signatures.
Clear, high-quality images help potential buyers understand exactly what they are purchasing and increase the likelihood of a successful sale.
Keywords: photography, Thomas Kinkade, lighting, gallery shot, detailed images
Reference: How to Photograph Art – Saatchi Art
4.Put your painting on consignment with a Kinkade art gallery.
Step 1: Understand Consignment Agreements
Many devoted Kinkade galleries offer the option to sell paintings on consignment. A consignment agreement outlines the terms of the sale, including the percentage of the sale price you will receive and any associated costs or fees.
Step 2: Sign the Agreement
Before your painting is displayed, you will likely need to sign a consignment agreement. This ensures both parties understand the financial arrangements and responsibilities.
- Example: The Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery offers consignors 70% of the sale price, minus any costs incurred by the gallery.
Keywords: consignment, Kinkade gallery, sale agreement, commission
Reference: Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery – Consignment Info
5 .Sell your painting on eBay.
Step 1: Verify Certificate of Authenticity
Before listing your painting on eBay, ensure it comes with a valid certificate of authenticity. This document increases buyer confidence and can help you achieve a higher sale price.
Step 2: Research Market Prices
Check what similar Kinkade paintings are currently selling for on eBay. Consider factors such as edition, rarity, and whether the painting is still available through the Thomas Kinkade publisher.
Step 3: Set a Minimum Bid
Decide on a starting price or minimum bid for your auction. Paintings that are rare or no longer available from the publisher may attract higher bids, while those still in circulation may need to be priced more competitively to sell.
Keywords: eBay, certificate of authenticity, auction, market research, Thomas Kinkade
Reference: Selling Art on eBay – The Spruce Crafts
6.Consult a local art gallery or auction house.
Step 1: Approach a Local Art Seller
Check if a nearby gallery or art dealer is willing to display your Kinkade painting. Local sellers can offer personal interaction with buyers and provide exposure within your community.
Step 2: Understand Consignment Terms
If the gallery accepts your painting on consignment, their terms are often similar to those of online consignment houses. Make sure you clearly understand the percentage of the sale price you will receive and any associated costs.
Keywords: local gallery, consignment, sale terms, Thomas Kinkade
Reference: Consignment Sales for Art – Artsy
7.Research and contact art brokers.
Step 1: Find Experienced Art Brokers
Look for art brokers who have prior experience selling Thomas Kinkade paintings. Experienced brokers often maintain a client list of collectors who may be specifically interested in Kinkade works, increasing your chances of a successful sale.
Step 2: Understand Fees and Commissions
Art brokers typically charge a fee or take a commission on the final sale price. Make sure you clearly understand these costs before committing to work with a broker, so you can calculate your net proceeds accurately.
Keywords: art broker, Thomas Kinkade, commission, professional selling
Reference: How Art Brokers Work – Artsy
