Approaching Local Galleries

GoofBckt

I'm sure some of you out there have ventured in this direction . . .
I'm thinking about approaching some local galleries to see if they would consider displaying some of my work, framed, etc.
How do you go about doing that exactly? Do you just take some biz cards in, or should I actually print and frame some of my signed work so they can see what the immediate result would be that I'm discussing and hope that they say "yes?!" Assuming they put them in the gallery for sales, then I'm sure there's a consignment fee, etc.? Thanks for any advice on this.

emeraldrose

While I haven't done it yet I was taught that you need a "book" Basically a portfolio of what work you'd be displaying preferably 11x14. Also a bus card and maybe a cd with same work to give them.

Angelo

Carrie:

It depends a bit on how you are defining "gallery" or more to the point, how the "gallery" defines itself.

If you're referring to a true art gallery, rather than a retail store in the mall selling art that calls itself a gallery, approaching them is very much like applying for a job.

I'd suggest a letter of introduction with direction to an online gallery followed up by a telephone call (referenced in your letter) and a request for an interview / showing.

If the gallery owner is receptive to a meeting he or she will advise what they expect you to bring but you should expect to bring along several prints.

ps: forget about framing. galleries generally prefer to dictate the presentation unless you're doing something especially unique that would be part of and integrated into your art.


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Cygnus Studios

Angelo wrote:

ps: forget about framing. galleries generally prefer to dictate the presentation unless you're doing something especially unique that would be part of and integrated into your art.

Most galleries here in the San Fran area want simple white matting. They all vary on framing so it is best to discuss this in the meeting.
Some smaller galleries will have an artist reception or meet and greet for local artists. These are meetings for local artists to get familiar with the gallery. (not to be confused with greeting the artist who's work is being displayed at the time).

Some galleries will make public announcements regarding new artists. Getting on the email list will help. You can usually sign up at the gallery or via their website.

Local art shows are also a great place to meet gallery owners. They or their representative are always there viewing. Getting on the art council for your area will help quite a bit also.

Medium and larger galleries will have specific information on contacting the gallery for submissions.

Becoming a member of the gallery (supporter) will also get you in the good graces of the other galleries in your area.

GoofBckt

Right on, Angelo!! Thank you, I really like that idea, rather than me just popping in and shoving my work in their face.

Angelo wrote:

Carrie:

It depends a bit on how you are defining "gallery" or more to the point, how the "gallery" defines itself.

If you're referring to a true art gallery, rather than a retail store in the mall selling art that calls itself a gallery, approaching them is very much like applying for a job.

I'd suggest a letter of introduction with direction to an online gallery followed up by a telephone call (referenced in your letter) and a request for an interview / showing.

If the gallery owner is receptive to a meeting he or she will advise what they expect you to bring but you should expect to bring along several prints.

ps: forget about framing. galleries generally prefer to dictate the presentation unless you're doing something especially unique that would be part of and integrated into your art.


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Angelo

Carrie

I've just looked through parts of your site - you have some nice stuff

You're from a small town and the charm of your work is that you capture much of that "All American" down home goodness. California is an interesting state in that there are some 900 miles of charming small towns that make up the majority of the state.

I think you could do very well promoting your work as the "local" artist in tourist rich communities from the greater Santa Barbara area all the way up to Santa Cruz.

This may mean you have to prepare your art, framed, for the gift shops or stick with the gallery approach as discussed above. You could, with careful planning do both also.

going commercial, selling through a gallery or gift shops, you'll want to get your model and property releases in order.

Good luck


ps: why aren't you spending days in Santa Ynez shooting horses????? You equine work is good

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GoofBckt

Wow, Angelo, coming from you, this is a HUGE compliment, thank you. Have spent some time in S.Y. shooting, but unfortunately I also work full time. Makes it tough. Thanks again, I really appreciate what you said.

Angelo wrote:

Carrie

I've just looked through parts of your site - you have some nice stuff

You're from a small town and the charm of your work is that you capture much of that "All American" down home goodness. California is an interesting state in that there are some 900 miles of charming small towns that make up the majority of the state.

I think you could do very well promoting your work as the "local" artist in tourist rich communities from the greater Santa Barbara area all the way up to Santa Cruz.

This may mean you have to prepare your art, framed, for the gift shops or stick with the gallery approach as discussed above. You could, with careful planning do both also.

going commercial, selling through a gallery or gift shops, you'll want to get your model and property releases in order.

Good luck


ps: why aren't you spending days in Santa Ynez shooting horses????? You equine work is good

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