Keeping track of the details about work you produce creates a record of when and how you made something and sold it.

Inventory.

This list is extensive and not every detail will be relevant for every piece. A special thank you to Emily Klug — Christie’s Director of Operations — for creating this content.

TItle

Date

Medium

Dimensions

Edition

Inscription/signature

Category (work on paper, painting, sculpture)

Subject matter

Related works

Inventory number

High-res photo on file

Your inventory can also include a description, sources of inspiration, and thoughts you had during creation — the story of each piece.

Price history and sale price

Availability (sold, available, not for sale, out on consignment)

Sale notes (source and date of sale)

History of sales offers to clients

History of submissions for exhibitions and residencies

Exhibition history

Location

Packing notes

Framing, pedestals, installation hardware

Fabricator or source for specialty materials

Cost of production

If you’re interested in a professional inventory system, many artists use Artwork Archive or Art Binder.