A gallery is a place that shows art, usually in a commercial setting. Whether it’s a large or small gallery, it’s a crucial part of the art world. And it’s not just a place that sells art; it’s a place that supports artists and gives them a platform for their work.
A good gallery can be a critical part of your career, even if you’re just getting started. They can introduce you to other artists and curators, help you build your network, and eventually find a venue for your work.
How to Get Represented by a Gallery
If you want to get your art in a gallery, the first thing to do is start by visiting galleries in your area. These are often run by curators who have specific tastes and a vision for what they want to show. Developing a relationship with them and becoming a regular visitor is the best way to start.
It’s also a good idea to go to group shows and other events at galleries. These can help you establish yourself in the art world and give you a chance to meet potential curators, owners, and other gallery staff.
Once you’ve established a relationship with the gallery, it’s time to put your work in front of them. This can be done through a personal visit or through a simple phone call.
Make sure you have your best work when you bring it in and that it’s clean and well-presented. It’s also a good idea to have an artist statement and a portfolio available, so they can see more of what you do than just what is on the wall.
You should also prepare a list of questions when you meet with a curator, owner, or other representative from the gallery. This will help you get the most out of the meeting.
During the conversation, you should try to make it clear that your art is unique and that you are excited about it. This helps the curator understand what makes your work interesting and worth their time. It’s important to mention any connections you have with other artists who have shown at the gallery, or that you were inspired by a piece in the gallery’s collection.
If your art fits in well with their collection, you’ll be able to work together more easily and quickly. This is also a good way to gain the trust of the curator, so you can be assured that they’ll take your work seriously.
Before you submit your work, be sure to review their exhibition calendar and show statements. This will give you a good idea of what sort of artists they represent and how they choose their work, as well as their policies for interviewing and accepting submissions.
Once you have a good understanding of their philosophy and ethos, you should be able to ask relevant questions when you’re talking to a curator or owner about your work. This will help you determine whether you are a good fit for them and, if so, how to proceed with your application.