This week I had two shows and it got me thinking about all that I do to prep for a show as well as what I do to follow up after.
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Over the years I’ve developed the ways that I prepare for a show so that I can maximize the opportunities created by having a show. You may find out about a show a year ahead of time or just a month away but either way as soon as you do it’s time to start preparing!
- Piece Selection: You’ll want to curate your pieces for the show carefully. Choose 8 to 15 works that are united in theme and style. While many artists are multidisciplinary, it’s crucial to find a connecting thread that ties your work together.
- Building Your Mailing List: Maintain an active mailing list. Include friends, family, coworkers, art contacts, galleries, and more. For art fairs and alternative spaces, consider having a guest book so you can collect email addresses there. Send regular art updates, at least monthly, and increase communication as the show approaches.
- Show Promotion: Two weeks before, one week before, and three days before the opening, send out reminders to your mailing list. Don’t forget to post about the show on your social media platforms as well.
- Top Mailing List: Create a top mailing list with detailed mailing addresses. Add galleries you want to connect with and top collectors, organized by city. Send them greeting cards to nurture the relationship.
- Artist Talk: Often, prepare an artist talk about your work. It’s a great way to engage with your audience and share the deeper meaning behind your pieces.
- Post-Show Etiquette: During the show, focus on saying thank you to visitors. Don’t corner people and start explaining your art to then unless they ask for it.
- Capture the Moment: Take lots photos, including shots with people, shots of your work, the gallery installation, and vertical reels for your social media.
- Day After: After the show, it’s not the time to relax. Send thank-you cards, emails, and post photos from the event on your social media. Make sure to create reels to keep the buzz going.
- Hanging Art: When setting up your artwork, make sure the center of your paintings is hung at 63″ in height. This is a standard eye-level height for most viewers.
- Art Fair Essentials: If you’re participating in an art fair or selling the work yourself, don’t forget to bring red dots for indicating sold pieces and a receipt book for sales transactions.
To get notified when registration for my next Visionary Artist Master Program (VAMP) opens in 2024 CLICK HERE!
Leave a comment below and share how you prepare for art shows!
Have a great week!
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