At what point does
an artist begin to pursue shows and/or galleries? How does one start?
I will relate MY experiences and successes and hopefully inspire others
to find the method that works for them.
After taking workshops and classes, and then
putting into practice the things I had learned, I realised I wanted to
sell a few of the things I had done.
My first decision was to join a
local art group
My first decision was to join a local art group.
The Olympia Art League was active in the community. Twice a year
they put on a show in the local mall.
With a table, a bench, two chairs and a folding
screen, I set up a booth and waited for the public to appreciate me and
throw money in my direction. I DID sell one very small painting (for
a very small amount). I immediately turned around and
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purchased another artist's painting. (For
the very same small amount!)
I did "mall shows" regularly for the next several years. I taught
lessons to earn extra money to help support my chosen career.
It took courage as well as careful
planning to talk to gallery owners
The time came when I did my first limited edition
print. I then had something reasonably priced and in greater quantity
to present to galleries. It took courage and careful planning to
talk to gallery owners and/or managers. I had learned sales techniques
on how to overcome the objections I knew (too well) that would be coming.
One at a time and slowly and surely, more galleries said yes to carrying
my work on consignment. I soon had over one hundred and twenty gift
shops and galleries from coast to coast and border to border carrying my
prints. And the rest, as they say, is history.
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