Working Together With Kindred Spirits

I'm going out on a limb with my recent actions, but I think the end result will be good one.http://www.throughthislens.com/artvenues.html

My gallery is in the city center and since I've opened several years ago, a good number of new galleries have opened within a short walking distance. I've just changed my company web site to include links to several friendly competitors web sites. Or, are they competitors? Galleries are by nature rare bird businesses. If they work together I believe the end result will be a stronger arts community. The more fully recognized every gallery becomes, the greater number of supporters will be drawn to the entire arts district. If you want to see what I'm talking about here please take a look at:

I'm so excited about this change that I'm publishing the announcement here before anywhere else. Please tell me if you think I'm crazy for including other galleries on my web site - or if you see it as a positive move for one and all.

Artist - Gallery Co-operation

I've recently had a very good experience with an artist and her helper, which in this case, happened to be her husband. Having previously worked with both people, I had quite a lot of trust and respect for both, and therefore felt good about leaving the installation to them. Normally I would have been more comfortable doing the installation, or at least directing it, myself.

After the work was on the walls the artist was very active in promoting the opening event, even to the extend to providing the refreshment for the opening reception. The gallery provided the space and much of the publicity for the exhibition and opening, and staff to attend. The artist was on time - meaning that she was a little early for the reception. I have experienced some exhibiting artists who were not so involved.

There are always reasons why some interested art lovers can't attend a show opening. In this case the artist continued to reach out to friends and other interested parties to set up appointments so they could meet together at the gallery to view the work on display. In some instances, this also required the gallery to keep slightly longer hours, or meet on days when officially closed - but that is part of what both artist and gallery staff should expect, to provide viewing, and possibly sales opportunities.

All this may seem like no-brainer behavior, but it is not nearly so common as one might expect. I very much appreciate the extra effort put into the show by the artist, and feel that similar behavior would benefit every artist and gallery. I consider this team to be ideal in their work and their generosity. Thank you!

Co-op Gallery Opportunity

Co-op galleries can be a wonderful opportunity for working artists. One of the best that I know of
Pleiades Gallery in Durham, NC,  is currently accepting applications to join - they are selective, a good characteristic, limiting their membership to a very small number. I'm on my way to work, so I can't add much more. To find details go to: http://pleiadesartdurham.com/?page_id=954 I can't think of a better opportunity for those in the Triangle. If you are outside this area, read their call for artists, then look for co-op gallery opportunities in your area.

Why galleries?

Back to business after my last sad post. We will explore whether a gallery is a good, or not so good, option - and even though I run one, I'm not always convinced myself.

Can a gallery sell your work? Yes, or at least maybe.
Why? Some of the reasons are:

• Constant availability of your original work for visitors to see and purchase
• Regular hours for drop in art lovers - and sometimes just lost souls who may still buy art
• Helps further an artist's reputation - even today, there is still something "official" about having work shown in a gallery
• Gallery staff can offer insight and detailed information about the artist and their work
• Relieves the artist from some marketing responsibility
• Special events that bring in the public to see original work
• Art on the Internet just is not the same as the real thing. I love the Internet - and along with an educated person on the phone, or on the computer, it can be a fabulous sales tool - but for items above gift and home decor prices the Internet is not so effective alone.
• Given the previous statement, a gallery must have a web presence - with your work displayed and easily found on the site

What does all this come down to (along with all the other facets that I'm forgetting because it is approaching midnight)?

MARKETING

I'm no expert, and I often question the validity of those who claim to be, but I'm sure that marketing in one form or fashion makes the difference. The more facets that work together, the more likely the gem will glitter and grab someone's attention - the first step toward a successful art marketer.

Once again, I ask you, the reader to express your opinions and share your questions.

Enduring Value of Art

I heard late last night that a friend, and artist, Ernest Oliphant has died. Ernest was not a "fine" artist, but he was dedicated to drawing and put his heart into them most of his hours every day. Ernest's work would not have made him a financial success - in fact he mostly gave his drawings away.  Now that he is gone the work that he left behind will be a reminder of his personality. Though his art was displayed in few venues, mostly he went directly to the people, hand in hand, and promoted his art through friendship, or friendship through his art.

We can expect remembrance and connection from what we create, and connections are what art is about in one way or another. When we see other artists pass, it provides a gentle reminder that our art is important, not only to us, but to those that we connect with in person, and through our work. Work on, and put your heart into your creations.

Kind hearted galleries and all the others

When artists visit my gallery hoping to show me their work, it is easy to recognize newcomers. Many times artists just drop in without calling, and ask me to look at their art. Since I respond favorably to anything that takes me away from paperwork,  cleaning or other tasks that really need my attention, I'm happy to spend a few minutes looking at fresh art.

It should be mentioned that in many galleries the artist would be treated as an intruder and given various reasons why the curator or owner could not, would not, and never would see the unannounced visitor. I have one friend who rode along with me to Atlanta so that he could present his work to galleries there. He was rebuffed and told that even five minutes were not available to see what he had to show. I believe that gallery lost out, and that remembrance is part of my reasoning for looking whenever I am able.

Fresh Art? Well, that is the problem. If you've ever been told by a teacher that pet pictures, flower pictures and old barns are off limits for your assignments then you might have an inkling of my dilemma. Any of those subjects can be beautiful and different - just as landscapes and tourist destinations can be - but they are not fresh. Because I love art, I always try to encourage - and try to find a gentle way to say no, or at least not yet, to most would be exhibitors.

But wait -  if you have strong work, then go ahead and try your best to show it to a gallery curator. You might be pleasantly surprised, but at worst you can learn and be better prepared for the next time you ask.

Reality hides around every corner

Looking at my previous post I thought some readers might interpret my perspective as negative. That is not my intent. The possibility of showing your art is very high - but where and when varies greatly. The possibility of making a living at your art is somewhat more remote. Unless you are very lucky, and some people are, making a living at "pure art" probably won't happen. Making a living as an artist, and taking on commissions and projects for others (AKA customers) can happen. The key, beyond luck, comes down to consistent dedicated work. WORK! I keep thinking of an old TV character when that word comes up. Work need not be a defeat - the right work is a rewarding way to live.

The idea of taking on assignments or commissions is off putting to some, but remember that many celebrated artists have worked in that fashion. Most benefactors expect something from their investment. Making a portrait for hire can still be creative, and come from your heart - and it helps pay the bills. Like it or not, we all need that.

What I hear

Often photographers come to me asking: "How can I show my work? How can I become successful?" as if I have valid answers. My internal, unspoken reaction is to say "don't even bother, you will just waste your time" but I don't really say that.  Where the work will go is not obvious to me. When an artist goes to the trouble and expense to make prints, and put them into some sort of portfolio, and then chance to ask "Am I not good enough to be considered part of the art world", aren't those steps toward their goal? Not because I'm asked, but because anyone is asked?

I hope to explore questions and ideas relating to art, little by little. Please check back as I have time to add more to this blog. And please - add your thoughts.

Dear Medici - What is it?

Artists all seem to talk about a few common topics, but one very common one is: "How do I sell my work?" The intention of this blog is to explore that topic, and maybe a few more, related to art and selling art. I welcome all comments, observations and suggestions for discussion topics.