Monday, April 21, 2003		Feature

FOR the connoisseurs of contemporary art, here is a site that has an extensive collection of art works from around the country that can be purchased online. The site, saffronart.com, has an extensive collection of artist profiles of more than 300 artists, new features, art news and a directory of current exhibitions. The portal has an art caf`E9 where one can chat with other art-friends and is basically divided into four main sections — Saffron catalogue, Artist profiles, Art caf`E9 and Partner galleries.

While the Saffron catalogue has sub-links like digital art collection and heritage collection, Artists profiles includes exclusive interviews with some artists. Art caf`E9 has news items and features on arty stuff and the Partner gallery is divided into seven sub-links citywise. The portal provides an assurance that each piece of art that it offers for sale is a genuine work of the artist listed. All works of art are sourced in conjunction with the partner galleries and the artists themselves. The artworks are further screened and authenticated by affiliated experts. However, if any item purchased is subsequently proven to be unauthentic, the portal promises to refund the full purchase price and shipping costs paid. This site is exclusively affiliated to some of the best galleries around the country.