It's like Groupon for art. Set to launch in mid-December,Artbomb Dailyis a web-based auction site for works by local artists that comes courtesy of Carrie Shibinksy, Andrea Carson Barker, and Jim Shedden, all of whom have experience in the local arts scene. The artwork up for grabs, which has already reached 60 pieces, has been curated by Barker, who's keeps up the blogView on Canadian Art(VoCA).

Here's how it works. One piece will be put up for auction each weekday, which subscribers will learn about via an email alert. The bidding is opened at 6 a.m. and runs until 11 p.m. Although the starting bids will vary, theorganizers toldthe Starthat they will likely range from $150 to $1000, with $400 serving as something of a sweet spot. Various styles and media are represented, including photography, painting and sculpture.

The cost for artists to participate is $150, which is payable whether the work sells or not. Should the website be able to build up a sizeable base of subscribers, that's a pretty good deal for two reasons: 1) the work is more likely to sell if more people see it, and 2) the exposure to an audience that may or may not be aware of one's work is valuable in and of itself. Should their work sell, artists get 50 per cent of the final bid.

All in all it sounds like an idea with much potential. That's not to say it won't be a tough go to build up a subscriber base, but in the sea of daily deal sites, wouldn't it be nice to have some art sent to your inbox?

Modified photo fromweidergruenon Flickr