Tips for Emerging Artists

There are a lot of people who consider themselves artistic, but don't really know how to go about selling their art or displaying it in galleries. I recently had the opportunity to show my art in several group shows and learned a few things along the way. Here is the path I took, and a few warning signs to watch out for.

First, if you aren't well acquainted with a lot of other artists, you're probably missing out on a lot of opportunities. The art world is a very well-connected place, and everyone knows everyone else. In order to get your foot in the door, it's helpful to first step in. Visit the shows, do the gallery walks, and participate in your local city arts council. The more people you meet, the more your name will come up at just the right time.

Second, just because you landed in a gallery or show doesn't mean you will make a sale. And that's okay. You don't want to seem desperate for the money to pour in. Instead, use that time to talk about your art with people. Don't approach them as if it's a sale. Just carry on a conversation with them. Trust me- the sales happen when you least expect it.

Third, watch out for predators. I recently sent some photos to a gallery that was "judging" artists for inclusion in their gallery. They were more than happy to show my pieces, if only I would pay a thousand dollar fee for the privilege of displaying with them. I never bothered writing them back because it was a scam. See, real galleries don't need you to pay to show your art. They have customers that do that.

Fourth, don't be afraid to get in touch with galleries where you think your art would work. But even here, there is a caveat. Don't waste the time of gallery owners by approaching them if your work obviously does not fit. For example, if you create paintings, don't approach a gallery that specializes in sculpture. You look like you aren't familiar with their gallery, are wasting their time, and don't have very good observational skills. And even if they choose to represent you, don't expect to sell anything. They don't specialize in your type of art and have no idea how to market it.