Artist Guide: How to Properly Submit Your Artwork to a Gallery
Artist Guide: How to Properly Submit Your Artwork to a Gallery
Research the Gallery
Knowing and making sure your art style and aesthetic goes along with a gallery is crucial, when trying to submit your work. Doing research on a specific gallery is crucial, because it helps you determinethe art preference of the gallery, which increases your chances of a successful submission. You must explore the gallery’s past and most recent exhibitions, and the past artist they have worked with. This will help you determine if you and your art would be a good fit for this specific gallery. When Researching, consider these points below:
What type of art does the gallery usually showcase?
While Researching a specific gallery, look for themes and styles typically displayed in the past and most recent exhibitions. This will help you determine if your work goes along with what the gallery is looking for, leading to a successful submission.
Who are the artists they represent?
It is important to look into who the gallery has worked with in the past, because this will help you better understand the gallery’s background,level of experience, and artistic approach they are looking for. This will also give you understanding if the gallery is more interested in up and coming artists, mid-career professional, or more established artists.
Does your work follow the gallery's aesthetic?
Although your art doesn't need to be identical to what the gallery usually displays, it should fit the gallery’s overall aesthetic. For example, If the gallery typically displays abstract works, it may not be the best fit if your art consists of hyperrealistic portraits.
Prepare a Strong Portfolio
In order to make a strong impression of a gallery, having a well-organized portfolio is essential. A portfolio should be a curated collection of your best work, that shows your creative vision, skill, and artist voice. Galleries look for artists with a clear and consistent aesthetic and direction. Your portfolio should present a cohesive body of work that remains consistent. You should avoid, and stay away from submitting a mix of unrelated pieces. To create a strong and effective portfolio, include the following:
High-quality images of your artwork
Clear, well-lit, and professionally photographed images are crucial. Strong image quality will make you seem more professional, and ensure that you make more of an impact on the gallery you are sharing your work with. Make sure that your photos effectively capture the details and colors.
Titles, dimensions, and medium of each piece
When creating your portfolio, for each artwork, list its title, materials used, and size of the piece. This will allow the galleries to determine how your work fits in their space, and it will help them understand the nature of your work and scale.
Write a Compelling Artist Statement & Bio
An artist statement is essential because it provides context for your work, while your biography shows and highlights your achievements and background. In your Artist statement and Bio, these key points should be included:
Artist Bio: Provide your previous exhibitions, education, and experience.
Artist Statement: Explain your themes throughout your work, inspirations, and artistic philosophy.
Craft a Professional Cover Letter
Writing a formal and professional letter allows you to introduce yourself, and gives you an opportunity to explain your artwork style and why it would be a good fit for this specific gallery. To keep your letter professional but also personalized, include the following:
The letter should be addressed to the gallery’s curator or director.
Show genuine interest in the specific gallery.
Introduce yourself, along with the style of your artwork.
Mention your most recent exhibitions, or achievements
Thank them for their time and consideration
Submit High-Quality Images
When submitting your artwork, your presentation is key. Make sure the images of your artwork match the requirements of the specific gallery. For a clear and organized presentation include the points below:
Proper lighting and a neutral background
Get rid or crop out any unnecessary elements in your photos
Name the files, of the image of your work correctly and professionally
Keep Networking
To continue to establish and build professional relationships with gallery owners and other artists, attend art fairs, gallery openings, and networking events. Building connections like this can and will increase an opportunity for future acceptance. If you follow these guidelines provided above, you will improve getting the opportunity of having a successful submission, and your art being showcased in a gallery. Being professional and persistence are key skills you need in the art world.