An art gallery provides a platform for local and international artists to showcase their artworks. This exposure is the primary reason that many artists choose to work with galleries. It also allows artists to gain a larger audience for their works, thus increasing the potential of selling them. However, the function of an art gallery goes beyond displaying and selling artworks. Galleries play a vital role in the art world, from supporting their artist clients to fostering an interest in new artists and the overall valuing of art.
The nature of the relationship between a gallery and an artist varies greatly, depending on the size and scope of the art gallery. Some galleries will represent an entire portfolio of artists, while others will work with artists on a more sporadic basis. When a gallery represents an artist, they will often provide support services for them such as financial management or book publishing, freeing the artists up to focus on creating their works.
Art galleries have a wide variety of responsibilities, and their staff is often highly specialized. Some gallery employees have extensive experience in a particular type of art, such as painting or sculpture, while others might have an academic background or expertise in museum relations. Regardless of the responsibilities of the individual staff members, all galleries strive to develop strong relationships with their artist clients and promote their artists to the widest possible audience.
Most art galleries will display the prices of their artworks, but they may not always be obvious to visitors. A shopper can usually ask the gallery owner or supervisor for a list of prices, and they will be happy to assist. However, the price lists are essentially non-binding; the gallery does not have any obligation to sell the artworks that are listed on them.
The art industry is a very competitive one. Most galleries will only select the best artworks that they believe have the most commercial value and appeal. They will then promote these pieces to the public through a number of channels, such as advertising in print and online and by hosting exhibitions in their space.
In addition, the art gallery will try to make sales to private collectors, companies, and museums, both nationally and internationally. They will often take a percentage of the sale for their services, but they may negotiate with artists to lower their fee or even work on commission.
If you are an artist hoping to get your work into a gallery, the first step is to visit their website to learn more about their requirements and aesthetic direction. Make sure that your art fits their vision and that you are prepared with a strong body of work, professional presentation materials, a website that highlights your art, and some references to previous exhibitions and press coverage. If you are ready to put in the time and energy, a reputable gallery will be well worth your effort. However, don’t expect to get into a major gallery unless you have a proven track record of successful sales and a high level of recognition.