Artsy

Consumer & Lifestyle

Founded: 2009

Last Round Valuation: $267.82MM

Artsy is a leading online platform that has become a transformative force in the art world, connecting collectors, galleries, and art enthusiasts in a digital realm. Founded in 2009 by Carter Cleveland and Sebastian Cwilich, Artsy offers a revolutionary approach to the art market, combining technology with art to create a dynamic and accessible marketplace for fine art. The platform showcases an extensive collection of artworks from renowned galleries and artists, as well as emerging talent, fostering an environment where art lovers can explore, discover, and purchase art from around the globe. Through innovative technologies and a user-friendly interface, Artsy has opened up new avenues for art discovery and engagement, empowering artists and galleries while democratizing access to the art world. With its mission to make art accessible to everyone, Artsy has become a vital resource, redefining the way people engage with and appreciate art in the digital age.

Artsy Overview:

Artsy, founded in 2009 by Carter Cleveland and Sebastian Cwilich, is a pioneering online platform that has transformed the art industry by bridging the gap between collectors, galleries, and art enthusiasts through the power of technology. The company's mission is to make art accessible to a global audience, revolutionizing the traditional art market by creating a digital space that fosters art discovery, appreciation, and commerce.

At the heart of Artsy's success is its vast and diverse collection of fine art from galleries and artists around the world. The platform serves as a virtual art repository, showcasing an extensive range of artworks, from iconic masterpieces to emerging artists' cutting-edge creations. With a user-friendly interface and sophisticated search capabilities, Artsy empowers art enthusiasts and collectors to explore and discover artworks that align with their individual tastes and preferences.

Beyond its extensive art collection, Artsy has incorporated innovative technologies to enrich the art discovery experience. Their proprietary algorithm, "The Art Genome Project," analyzes and categorizes artworks based on various artistic attributes, allowing users to navigate through the platform's vast catalog with ease and find artworks that resonate with their unique interests.

Artsy has also redefined the way art transactions occur through its online marketplace. By facilitating secure and transparent transactions, the platform has democratized access to the art world, connecting collectors and buyers with galleries and artists directly. This approach has empowered galleries and artists, particularly emerging talents, by providing them with an international platform to showcase their works and reach a global audience of potential collectors.

Furthermore, Artsy's commitment to education and engagement has amplified the impact of the platform on the art community. Through its editorial content, Artsy offers insightful articles, interviews, and editorial features, keeping art enthusiasts informed about the latest trends, exhibitions, and developments in the art world. The platform also hosts virtual exhibitions, art fairs, and events, fostering a sense of community among art enthusiasts and encouraging engagement with the arts.

Over the years, Artsy has garnered a wide and dedicated user base, attracting art lovers, collectors, galleries, and institutions alike. Its innovative approach has earned recognition and partnerships with leading museums, auction houses, and art institutions, solidifying its position as a key player in the art ecosystem.

Artsy's impact on the art market is evident in its contribution to making art more accessible, transparent, and inclusive. By leveraging technology and cultivating a global art community, Artsy has redefined the art experience, making it more interactive, engaging, and approachable for people from all walks of life. As the art world continues to evolve, Artsy remains at the forefront, driving change and shaping the future of art appreciation in the digital age.

Founders:

  • Carter Cleveland

  • Dasha Zhukova

  • Sebastian Cwilich

  • Wendi Murdoch

Top Investors:

  • Alexis Ohanian

  • Avenir Growth Capital

  • Barry Silbert

  • BoxGroup

  • Breyer Capital

  • David Tisch

  • Eric Schmidt

  • Founders Collective

  • Fueled

  • IDG Capital

  • Jack Dorsey

  • Jaws Ventures

  • Jeff Miller

  • Joe Gebbia

  • L Catterton

  • Landis Capital

  • Michael Broukhim

  • Others

  • Peter Lehrman

  • Peter Thiel

  • Plug and Play Tech Center

  • Raptor Group

  • Richard Barton

  • Rockefeller Family Trust

  • Shumway Capital

  • Sky Dayton

  • Slow Ventures

  • Strand Equity

  • Thrive Capital

  • ZhenFund

Funding History:


Date Share Type Amount Raised Raised to Date Issue Price Post Money Valuation Key Investors
Jul 2017 Series D $49.29MM $102.94MM $25.74 $267.82MM Thrive Capital, Avenir Growth Capital, Fueled
Mar 2015 Series C $26.32MM $53.64MM $18.97 $160.08MM IDG Capital, Jaws Ventures, L Catterton
Apr 2014 Series B $19.64MM $27.32MM $9.45 $65.71MM Breyer Capital, IDG Capital, Peter Thiel
Nov 2011 Series A-1 $6MM $7.68MM $8.31 $41.53MM BoxGroup, Michael Broukhim, Peter Thiel
Nov 2010 Series A-2 $178.4K $178.4K $1.66 $10MM Founders Collective, Thrive Capital, Peter Lehrman
Nov 2010 Series A-4 $211.13K $211.13K $2.68 $10MM Founders Collective, Thrive Capital, Peter Lehrman
Nov 2010 Series A-3 $1.29MM $1.29MM $2.58 $10MM Founders Collective, Thrive Capital, Peter Lehrman

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