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How to Approach a Gallery – Tips for Artists

One of the questions we get asked very often is, “How do you select the art you hang in your gallery?” Other artists who would like us to hang theirs most often ask this.

Generally speaking, to hang on our walls or to be featured on our website, the artist needs to be a known entity people are searching for over the Internet.  Most major galleries featuring national and international artists like The Art Shop have a  major on-line presence and rely on the reputation and demand for these artists’ works to bring traffic to their websites.

That is not to say we don’t look at or take an interest in local talent.  We would love to discover the next best-selling artist, so we are always on the lookout for great talent. If you are that person or you think you know someone who is, here is a list of do’s & don’ts to consider before calling or coming by.  Our gallery director, Andy McAfee, put these together:

DO:

  • Call ahead for an appointment
  • Dress professionally
  • Bring a portfolio of your work
  • Be ready to explain how the gallery will benefit from carrying your work
  • Respect paying customers
  • Find the decision maker
  • Research the gallery to make sure your work is a good fit

DON’T:

  • Pretend you are interested in purchasing art
  • Try to describe your work without having examples
  • Argue with the gallery director
  • Bring family members or children
  • Expect lower prices to be a selling point
  • Submit copies of top selling artists

Andy has a degree in Art Marketing and he is happy to provide struggling artists with his opinions and advice.  Call him at 336-855-8500 or email him at [email protected].

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