DUSSELDORF.- Online art funding platform ARTPIQ is working to disrupt the art market. Since its launch in March 2017, the start-up has already raised a six figure angel funding to connect promising talents with collectors. Traditionally, young artists with potential face high-entry barriers into the art market due to a lack of network, business expertise, and exposure while the majority of money is invested in the secondary art market. ARTPIQ is committed to radically change the landscape by offering a platform of opportunities for young talents and collectors.

“Right now, control over the art market is in few hands. Therefore, it is very difficult even for really talented artists to gain a foothold”, commented Katharina Wenzel-Vollenbroich, Founder and CEO of ARTPIQ. “We are passionate about art and long to create a great environment for tomorrow’s masters. That’s why we want to democratise the market and connect collectors with rising artists at an early stage.”

Collector Hannah Fleig, Corporate Development at M&A Sixt ​said about the concept: “I just love the opportunity of buying art by artists that I would have never met without ARTPIQ. I live in Munich and now own a piece of art by a London based artist. How cool is that?” It’s not just collectors that are excited by what ARTPIQ can offer. The artists themselves are already reaping the benefits of ARTPIQ’s unique online platform.

Artist Ellie Walker ​added: “ARTPIQ has helped ease the process of my first international sale and has exposed my work to collectors and investors who would otherwise have not seen my work. I have felt fully supported throughout my time being with them and am excited to see all the possibilities that ARTPIQ can bring to emerging artists!”

ARTPIQ’s main goals are:

• Discovery of talents: Together with trusted art market advisors ARTPIQ puts a great amount of effort in scouting the most promising emerging artists from renowned art schools in Germany, UK and across the globe.

• Dedicated support: By offering dedicated support to each individual through collector and investor outreach ARTPIQ helps emerging talents to focus on their art instead of troubling with financing, planning, marketing, and selling

• Platform for connecting: ARTPIQ’s mission is to create a unique platform that connects a new generation of art collectors with emerging artists.