The responsible agent, or RA, generally brings an artist to the agency. RAs at large agencies typically are paid annual salaries that range from $75,000 to over $1 million for those with superstar clients. At a smaller agency, salaries range from $40,000 to $225,000. As a general rule, RAs are expected to bring in annual commissions equal to three times their salaries. Art dealers get a commission of the sell that can range from 30 to 60% in the primary market. The secondary market commissions start at 5% for artworks over a million and scale to 20% for artworks under $100,000. The most common arrangement gives the agent 10-15% of the money paid to a band for a gig. Booking agencies typically earn a 10 percent commission of the gross revenue for each engagement booked.
Acting agents typically get paid a percentage-based commission, which is anywhere between 10-20% of the actor’s earnings. No standard rate exists as it varies from one agency to another. You shouldn’t have to pay any upfront fees to an acting agent. If an agency asks for payment beforehand, it could be a scam.
How much do artist agents make?
The middle 60% of Artist Agents makes between $62,940 and $65,000, with the top 80% making $187,200. Art dealers get 30 to 60% commission in the primary market. Secondary market commissions start at 5% for artworks over a million and scale to 20% for artworks under $100,000. Booking agencies typically earn 10 percent commission of the gross revenue for each gig booked. Acting agents typically get 10-20% commission, varying from agency to agency.
Art Sales and Profits
Fine artists make around $44,898 a year on average, ranging from $24,000 to millions. Musicians like Taylor Swift earn millions while the average musician makes around $39,300 per year. Singers should receive the same per song rate as other musicians, generally $50 to $300 per song. An acceptable rate is $150 per player per song.
Benefits of Having an Agent
Agents are beneficial for well-established artists with consistent sales and high profit. If this is you, your priority should be creating more artwork; you can shoulder up the commission to have somebody else deal with the business end. Entrepreneur.com suggests art agents take 10% to 20% of an art piece’s sale price. The standard gallery commission sits at about 50% per piece, ranging from 20% to 60%. You can find your next agent through an online search for artist representatives, private art dealers, or fine art representation in your area.