20x200 | Jen Bekman Projects

Background

Founded in 2007 by Jen Bekman, 20x200 is an innovative e-commerce platform that democratizes art collection by offering curated, limited-edition fine art prints and photographs at accessible price points. Operating under the mantra "It's Art for Everyone," the company aims to bridge the gap between artists and consumers, making high-quality art available to a broader audience. This initiative evolved from the Jen Bekman Gallery, established in 2003, which focused on contemporary art across various mediums. The gallery also launched "Hey, Hot Shot!" in 2005, an international photography competition designed to provide exposure and support to photographers at all career stages.

Key Strategic Focus

20x200's strategic focus centers on curating and offering limited-edition art prints that cater to both novice and seasoned collectors. By collaborating with a diverse array of artists—ranging from emerging talents to established figures—the company provides a wide selection of artworks. The platform emphasizes affordability without compromising quality, with prices starting as low as $24. Each piece is produced using museum-quality materials and comes with a signed and numbered certificate of authenticity, ensuring value and authenticity for collectors.

Financials and Funding

In October 2009, 20x200 secured $800,000 in Series A funding, with an additional $2 million raised in August 2010. The company reported $2.5 million in revenue in 2010, including a notable $100,000 in sales from artist William Wegman in a single day. However, in January 2013, 20x200 suspended operations and went offline, leaving numerous unfulfilled orders and outstanding debts to vendors. The site relaunched in April 2014 as a beta on youshouldbuyart.com before returning to its original domain, 20x200.com.

Technological Platform and Innovation

20x200 leverages a robust e-commerce platform to offer a seamless art-buying experience. The website features a curated selection of limited-edition prints, each accompanied by detailed information about the artwork and artist. The platform's user-friendly interface allows customers to browse, select, and purchase art with ease. Additionally, 20x200 utilizes email newsletters and social media channels to engage with its audience, providing insights into new releases and artist features.

Leadership Team

Jen Bekman: Founder and Chief Executive Officer. Bekman has a background in the tech industry, having worked with companies such as New York Online, Electric Minds, Netscape, Disney/GO Networks, AOL, and Meetup. She transitioned to the art world by opening the Jen Bekman Gallery in 2003 and later launching 20x200 in 2007.

Joan Lemay: Social Media Coordinator and Copywriter.

Hannah Roberts: Studio Assistant.

Rebecca Kaebnick: Studio Manager.

Ethan Barrett: Studio Assistant.

The leadership team combines expertise in art curation, e-commerce, and customer engagement to drive the company's mission forward.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The online art market has experienced significant growth, driven by increasing consumer interest in accessible and affordable art. The global online art market was valued at approximately $4.82 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $9.32 billion by 2024, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.7%. This growth is attributed to the convenience of online platforms, a broader selection of artworks, and the democratization of art collection.

Competitor Analysis

20x200 operates in a competitive landscape alongside several notable companies:

artnet: Established in 1989, artnet is a leading online resource for the international art market, offering services such as art auctions, price databases, and news. The company reported revenue of €23.4 million in 2023.

Flowers Gallery: Founded in 1970, Flowers Gallery operates physical locations in London and New York, exhibiting contemporary art across various mediums. The gallery reported revenue of £6.2 million in 2018.

Mona (Museum of Old and New Art): Based in Berriedale, Australia, Mona offers leisure services and operates as a contemporary art museum. The institution employs approximately 187 staff members.

These competitors offer a range of services, from online art auctions to physical gallery exhibitions, catering to diverse segments of the art market.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

In April 2011, 20x200 appointed Crenshaw Communications as its public relations agency of record to enhance its visibility within the art, technology, and business communities. Additionally, the company has collaborated with various artists and organizations to expand its offerings and reach new audiences.

Operational Insights

20x200's operational strategy focuses on providing a curated selection of affordable, limited-edition art prints to a broad audience. By maintaining high-quality production standards and offering detailed information about each artwork and artist, the company differentiates itself from competitors. The use of a user-friendly e-commerce platform and active engagement through newsletters and social media channels further enhances the customer experience.