Tips for how an artist should approach and work with a gallery
March/23/2010 Filed in: Gallery Info
In the six weeks or so since I was employed at an art gallery, I have already gleamed many insights into how an art gallery works and what artists need to know. Unfortunately many art schools do not have classes in the business of art, so the details involved in approaching a gallery, making a living in art, and bridging the gap between the art maker, seller, and buyer are often left to word-of-mouth conversations or trial and error.
A few tips when approaching an art gallery:
1. Make sure that you are ready. Develop a large body of consistent work.
2. Take good, color-corrected pictures of your work and have it available online to view. The pictures should accurately represent your work and be neatly cropped. Make your own website. If you can’t do that, you can upload pictures to a Facebook page or, better yet, hire a graphic designer to create your site. If you are a student, you may be able to trade with another student in exchange for portfolio pieces.
3. Whether you present yourself in person or online, make it professional. Dress up if you have an appointment with the gallery.
4. Approach a gallery at the right time. DO NOT approach during an opening or art event. It is better to send an email with pictures, or a postcard or letter. Some galleries have submission guidelines on their website. Check the websites first before contacting anyone.
5. Research a gallery to see if they have art similar to what you make and visit in person. If you walk in and say “I like your space” it is often a tip-off that you are an artist looking for representation. It is better to be interested first in what type of art they have, and secondly notice the gallery space.
6. When the right fit is found, think of the gallery representation as a long-term relationship. Work with the gallery if they have special requests and be in contact often.
I’ll write more later on tips to survive and thrive in the economy...I’m learning a few pointers from artists that are still making and selling during a rough economic time. I would also like to hear if anyone else has learned anything on either of these topics. Your comments are appreciated!
A few tips when approaching an art gallery:
1. Make sure that you are ready. Develop a large body of consistent work.
2. Take good, color-corrected pictures of your work and have it available online to view. The pictures should accurately represent your work and be neatly cropped. Make your own website. If you can’t do that, you can upload pictures to a Facebook page or, better yet, hire a graphic designer to create your site. If you are a student, you may be able to trade with another student in exchange for portfolio pieces.
3. Whether you present yourself in person or online, make it professional. Dress up if you have an appointment with the gallery.
4. Approach a gallery at the right time. DO NOT approach during an opening or art event. It is better to send an email with pictures, or a postcard or letter. Some galleries have submission guidelines on their website. Check the websites first before contacting anyone.
5. Research a gallery to see if they have art similar to what you make and visit in person. If you walk in and say “I like your space” it is often a tip-off that you are an artist looking for representation. It is better to be interested first in what type of art they have, and secondly notice the gallery space.
6. When the right fit is found, think of the gallery representation as a long-term relationship. Work with the gallery if they have special requests and be in contact often.
I’ll write more later on tips to survive and thrive in the economy...I’m learning a few pointers from artists that are still making and selling during a rough economic time. I would also like to hear if anyone else has learned anything on either of these topics. Your comments are appreciated!