Getting into a gallery is every ambitious artist’s dream. Showing and selling your work, gaining recognition and visibility through solo and group shows, access to support and promotion… The opportunities for artists are endless. What’s the catch? It won’t be easy at first. How does one know the right way to approach a gallery? There are no written rules about the exact way to proceed, as the situation entirely depends on the artist and gallery in question and what they’re looking to achieve through this collaboration.
Be that as it may, there are still some useful tips out there to help you get started and kickstart your career. Asking yourself the right questions as an artist can lead to the most fruitful outcome. Put all the chances on your side to secure a meeting with your dream gallery by following these general steps.
Research the gallery
You’ll want to find a gallery that corresponds to who you are as an artist. It is important that you should research different galleries and find the ones that showcase artworks similar to yours. Research the gallery’s reputation in the arts community and make note of how the gallery presents itself by looking at their website, the quality of images and text, their newsletter, press releases… Read up on the artists represented at the gallery, their background, styles and mediums and determine whether you would be a good fit with the culture of the gallery.
As an artist, you might wish to consider applying to online galleries as well as traditional galleries. One of the biggest advantages of online galleries is that they are always open and accessible to anyone in the world. Clients have more opportunities to study the artwork, take their time and familiarize themselves with the artist’s work before making a purchase. Gain increased exposure as an emerging artist and reach a wider global audience by selling art online.
The more you acquire information, the better informed you will be on the different galleries that you are interested in submitting an application to, and the more confident you will feel about your choices.
Prepare your portfolio
Create a selection of your finest artworks which you are planning on showing to galleries. Prepare an artist statement, a CV, and high-quality images of your artworks. The better your portfolio, the more chances you will have of standing out from the crowd and making a first strong impression. Ask yourself whether your work is as good as it possibly can be and is aligned with the gallery’s vision.
Don’t show up unannounced
Avoid making the faux-pas of dropping by the gallery on the off chance that you will be welcomed with open arms by the gallery owner. If no one is expecting you that day, the gallery staff will most likely be busy with their work and you will risk disturbing them. So don’t start off on the wrong foot, and make sure you have had some kind of prior exchange with the gallery before paying them a visit.
Familiarize yourself with the gallery
As opposed to simply appearing out of the blue, like a stranger with high hopes, increase your chances of getting noticed by regularly attending the gallery’s openings and exhibitions. Strike up a conversation with the gallery owner and/or assistant(s). Introduce yourself and get to know the team who’s running the gallery.
Networking is always a good idea, especially in the art world. Knowing the right people can lead to a fortunate chance, such as getting a referral. Connect with other artists and build your network, making important connections which might come in handy one day.
Submitting artworks online
Some galleries will have an ongoing section dedicated to artworks submission, or will have open calls for artists. Prepare your submission carefully, making sure you have all the information you need at hand before submitting your application (artist bio, contact information, artwork descriptions, high-quality images of your artworks). Check you follow the gallery’s submission guidelines, making necessary adjustments if needed and double-checking for any mistakes.
At SINGULART, the application process for artists is easier than ever. After submitting their application, artists are offered personal support by the gallery where they are guided step by step, from creating a profile, building an online portfolio to expanding a collector base and finally, selling and gaining international visibility!
Build your online presence
In today’s digital world, artists are expected to have an established online presence, whether that be on social media, having their own website, an e-shop or an online portfolio that showcases their work. Curate your online presence by posting art-related content and avoid posting anything that could undermine your reputation as an artist.
Define your brand and devise a plan of action, with a clear objective for each marketing action that you take. Think about the ways you wish to be perceived by the general public and how you can contribute to your online success.
Don’t get discouraged
Putting yourself out there as an artist is nerve-wrecking. You have to come to terms with the fact that you might get rejected by galleries, which can in turn lead to feeling demoralized. Keep in mind that it is an extremely competitive industry, and galleries are approached by talented artists everyday. Ask yourself if your art is more unique and innovative than works by others. Are the materials that you use eye-catching? Do you truly believe that someone would like to display your art in their home?
Perseverance and self-confidence are key to keeping your eyes on the prize. Early success is rare for emerging artists, but doesn’t mean that you won’t gain recognition later on in your career. Don’t give up after the first rejection and work even harder to get what you want.
