Amparo is bridging the gap between artists and new art buyers

Business partners Mark Marotta and Ben White are paving the way for emerging and established artists to reach and connect with the next generation of fine art collectors.

That’s the heart behind Amparo, a welcoming e-commerce marketplace for artists and buyers that began here in Lancaster in early 2022. The concept was designed to make fine art, in particular original paintings, accessible to individuals who are new to the art market and do not know where to start.

Mark remembers growing up surrounded by art in his community and in his home. His desire to start his own collection was one of the inspirations behind Amparo.

“We wanted to make fine art approachable, not as intimidating and offer services to make the art buying and selling process easy and transparent,” he said.

The curated collection of paintings offered on the Amparo website features work from local Lancaster artists, as well as artists from across the country—all virtually staged so you can imagine what the art will look like in your space. Currently, they have works from eight artists in a variety of mediums and styles.

Ben, a lifelong creative with a background in both the arts and music, is excited about the resources Amparo offers to the artists as well as buyers.

“We also have a passion for giving artists a voice and a platform to boost their business and help them achieve their dreams,” he said.

With virtual art shows, art consultations, and comprehensive shipping and installation services, Amparo is a new and exciting way for people who may not have ever been inside a traditional gallery to invest in art.