What commission percentage is reasonable when displaying art in restaurants, and how should I structure an initial agreement?

Commission percentages vary by venue and are negotiable. Restaurants typically range from 10% upward; some may request 30%, especially if they actively promote through artist nights or events. Before committing to a higher commission, ask about their track record of actually selling artwork. For a test run, propose a short initial contract (one or two months) to gauge interest and sales. If they lack a proven sales history, negotiate lower commissions or decline. Focus the test on lower-risk inventory: prioritize prints (which have higher markup and lower cost to you) and perhaps one or two high-priced originals. After the trial period, renegotiate based on actual results. The key is not to overcommit expensive inventory or high commissions until you see proof the partnership generates sales.

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Asked by an artist exploring restaurant display opportunities · Answered by Juan (One) · Office Hours · 2026-03-19