|
One of the most effective and, indeed, most traditional
ways that a gallery can promote an artist is to provide a one-person exhibition
of the artist’s recent works.
If you have been exhibiting in a particular gallery for any
length of time, you have probably already been approached regarding a solo
showing of your artwork. The
publicity generated by a special exhibition, coupled with a festive opening
night gala, can do much to enhance sales of your work – both immediately and
in the long run.
For those artists who have had little or no experience with
one-person exhibitions, the entire process can seem a bit daunting and
intimidating. However, by knowing
what to expect and what is expected of you, you will most likely breeze through
with few permanent injuries. And,
with a few shows under your belt, you’ll no doubt come to realize that it is
really quiet the way to go.
But getting back to the basics – if you and your gallery
have decided that the time has come for you to have a one-person exhibition,
then it is time for you to review a few guidelines.
First, keep in mind the fact, that any aspect of the
gallery – artist relationship is symbiotic.
That is, your gallery has the right to expect certain things from you,
and you, in turn, have the right to expect certain things from your gallery.
If you do not already have an understanding
with your gallery, it would be a good idea to determine early on who will
pay for the opening reception, the advertising, and other related expenses.
There is no set rule: some galleries cover all costs while others share
the expenses with the artist who is having the exhibition. If
your gallery does not pick up the tab, you must decide how much you are willing
to spend.
The gallery director or owner should make it very clear to
the artist how many works of art are expected for the reception and show and
exactly when these works are due. Most
galleries will give an artist at least a year’s notice of an upcoming show.
The gallery has a right to expect all works of art to be
delivered on time, properly framed, properly priced, and ready to hang.
It is generally considered quite unprofessional for an artist to fall
short in this area and, in doing so, an artist runs the risk of not being asked
to have a second show. If you wish
to succeed as an artist, in terms of making a living, I would strongly advise
you to conduct yourself in a thoroughly professional manner at all times.
Your gallery will most likely expect you to attend the
opening reception. This is an
opportunity for you to meet buyers and perspective buyers.
People who buy art love to meet the artist, so be prepared to “do your
part” in selling your own work. It’s
the professional thing to do, regardless of how you might personally feel about
“mixing and mingling”.
As you may have guessed by now, the one-person exhibition,
with all its accompanying festivities, is simply a matter of common sense.
Make sure you understand what your responsibilities are and what your
gallery’s responsibilities are. If
need be, get it in writing.
The solo exhibition can be very beneficial for
all concerned, and, if each party lives up to its responsibilities, the long
term rewards can be quiet substantial. |
ART
FACTS
LINKS
