Masterworks
Masterworks is the first and leading platform to offer fractional investing in multi-million-dollar, blue-chip artworks. Founded in 2017, the company pioneered the fractional art market by allowing everyday investors, not just high-net-worth individuals, to buy and trade shares in iconic, investment-grade masterpieces. As the most successful art-investment platform of its kind, Masterworks has made it possible for a wider audience to access an asset class that was historically limited to private collectors and institutions. Through Masterworks, investors can diversify their portfolios with contemporary and blue-chip art created by world-renowned artists such as Banksy, George Condo, and Andy Warhol. The platform offers works from both emerging and established artists whose pieces are frequently displayed in major museums and galleries. Open to investors regardless of accreditation status, Masterworks provides a transparent and regulated way to gain exposure to fine art as an alternative investment.
ABOUT MASTERWORKS
Masterworks is a pioneering art investing platform that allows individuals to buy fractional shares of high-value, blue-chip artworks.
Since its launch in 2017, the company has transformed the art investment landscape by making an exclusive asset class accessible to everyday investors, not just institutions and ultra-high-net-worth collectors.
Masterworks manages the entire lifecycle of each artwork, including acquisition, authentication, storage, insurance, and eventual sale.
When a painting is sold at a profit, investors receive their proportional share of the returns after fees.
The platform has grown rapidly and now represents one of the largest art investment operations in the world, with more than 1 billion dollars invested by users across nearly 450 artworks from over 150 countries.
HOW IT WORKS
Artwork Selection and Acquisition – Masterworks relies on a dedicated research team that analyzes thousands of artists and market data points to identify blue-chip art with strong long-term appreciation potential. Once a work is selected, Masterworks acquires it through galleries, private sales, or major auction houses.
Securitization and Share Offering – After the artwork is purchased, it is placed into a special-purpose entity, often an LLC. Masterworks then files an offering with the SEC. Following SEC qualification, investors can purchase fractional shares, typically priced around 20 dollars per share.
Holding Period and Sale Strategy – Masterworks usually holds artworks for three to ten years, targeting sales during periods of favorable market conditions. When a work is sold, net proceeds are distributed to shareholders based on the number of shares they own.
Liquidity Through a Secondary Market – For investors who prefer not to wait until the artwork is sold, Masterworks provides access to an internal secondary market. This platform allows shareholders to buy or sell shares, offering potential liquidity before the official exit event.