Whoever thinks that galleries take too much of a cut could very easily try and market their work themselves. Or better yet, try to disrupt the art world by building an online art gallery that takes let's say just a mere 10%. After all, online sales are on the rise.

But guess what. Even online platforms take a significant cut. Why's that? Because marketing to the rich and well-off has a significant cost that's much higher than running a targeted AdWords campaign. You have to be out there, talk to people, attend art fairs and galas, socialize, then socialize more, network with critics and journalists who are considered influential, negotiate with collectors who will try to rip you off and do it constantly. On top of that, if you're one of the renowned galleries and an artwork for an artist you represent goes on sale at an auction at a low price you pay from your pocket to keep the price high in order not to hurt the reputation of the artist.

So yes, I'm making generalizations but I've also happen to work in the art world and I've seen how things work. Owning and operating a commercial art gallery is all about personal connections and that costs.