How Prints and Postcards are Faring at Art Museum Shops

When it comes to print and postcard sales at art museum shops, overall they’re doing pretty well, according to the retailers interviewed for this article.

Emilie Kristek, retail operations manager at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, Ill., said postcards remain popular. She offers them from a variety of vendors and they feature images of different museum artifacts. “People love to purchase them because they are inexpensive and the photos are above what they are able to take themselves,” she said.

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art in St. Petersburg, Fla., sells about six different postcard designs (including a soaring view of its extraordinary sandstone building) that have always proved to be best sellers, said Harry Martin, director of visitor experience. Guests take advantage of the shop’s buy four get one free deal on postcards.

Dina Mack, membership and guest relations coordinator at Rollins Museum of Art in Winter Park, Fla., said postcards are good items for those who want to take home a small memento from their visit. The shop doesn’t sell prints.

Prints and postcards sell somewhat well for

“We didn’t have a strong, popular exhibition this season,” she said. “A big art exhibit brings in print sales.” ❖