Star Noble: Art Advice Columnist for Fine Art Registry®

To Be or Not to Be... In a Gallery

Star responseds to an artist's question of how and when to approach Galleries.

Hello Star Noble,
I was wondering how you can assist an artist in determining when their work is to a point to be placed in a "Gallery". When, where and how to approach galleries by artists that are not well known. Are galleries a be-all and end-all? Your knowledge on this subject would be appreciated.
Thank you,
FAR Registered Artist

Hello FAR Artist,
It used to be that the only way you could make it as an artist was to be represented by a gallery. Those days are over. Although I believe that having your work in a gallery is another way to market your work, it should be just one of multiple avenues to get your work out there.

At what point should you approach a gallery? My answer to that question is simple. You should start approaching galleries whenever you are at a point to handle, or rather, embrace rejection. You have to be confident enough in your work to not let a gallery owner's opinion deter you from continuing your passion. Artwork is way too subjective, and just because a gallery owner doesn't like it, that doesn't mean there isn't an audience/market for your work. It means they're just not that in to you (your work). A gallery is a business and they have every right to determine whether or not they can sell and turn a profit from hanging your work in their establishment. You have to have some pretty thick skin to go down this road. But as the old saying goes - nothing ventured is nothing gained.

That said, try approaching galleries that sell works in the same genre as yours. For example, a Folk Art gallery owner may not be interested in hanging your Pop Art in their gallery. Their clients are more than likely Folk Art collectors and that's who they market to. Be careful of "vanity" galleries that charge you for representation. You should go over that arrangement/contract (and the costs associated) with a fine tooth comb. Make sure the juice is worth the squeeze.

How should you approach a gallery? Start hitting the pavement and walk in with a nice portfolio of your work. Be prepared to leave a copyrighted disk with a sample of your work, a copy of your artist statement and/or resume and a business or gallery card with pertinent contact info. You should be able to discuss your sales history and market segment with the owner if asked.

You can also contact galleries via the internet and submit copyrighted images of your work for consideration. Just remember, if any of your work ends up in a gallery, MAKE SURE IT'S TAGGED AND REGISTERED WITH FINE ART REGISTRY. Protect it!

Lastly, I leave you with this. Having your work in a gallery is NOT the be-all and end-all. Is it an ego stroke? Sure. But don't let it define you as an artist. Look at it as another way to market your work, if you so choose. Your work hanging in a gallery will not determine your success as an artist.

Luckily, in the Internet age, you can take your work directly to the people (a worldwide audience) and let them determine whether or not there is a market for your work.

On a personal note, I've had millionaires buy my paintings time and time again and I've also had gallery owners who were not interested in my work. Just goes to show you...

- Star Noble

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