how do you get artwork, photos & paintings into an art gallery/?

Question

Trying to help a friend with fantastic photos and paintings be noticed (and paid). Thanks for all of your help

Answer 1

Know someone or have really god luck

Answer 2

A lot of local galleries are always more than happy to display the works of someone local. That's what they are all about.

Call ahead of time and ask to speak to the person who makes the decisions about what does and doesn't get placed in the gallery. If it's a smaller gallery, it's usually the owner... if it's a larger gallery, there is usually someone specific for this role.

Speak to this person and make an appointment to show him (or her) the works you think should be hung on a wall. The images should be quite large (at least 16x20 - though a 20x30 is much nicer), cleaned up, color corrected (if digital), retouched, pretty much in perfect condition. I'd suggest if you are going that large, make sure the images are printed on matte paper and mounted onto a sturdy mountboard. Make sure you have a case to hold these images in so you don't walk in carrying a bunch of images under your arms (doesn't look professional).

Some business don't mind having smaller prints, such as an 8x10, so walk in with just a few of these in a portfolio style presentation.

The most important rule here is be professional in your appearance and presentation.

The next most important rule is don't call for your friend. Have him (or her) make the phone call otherwise there is a good chance you'll just be laughed at if you call in and say, "I have a friend who does really good work, can I show you his image?"

Answer 3

If the artwork is fantastic as you think, you can approach anyone managing the gallery otherwise you have to look for someone like an agent who can "sell" your painting to these managers. Managers need to be convinced though that they can sell it or else it will just take space. You can make a good deal with him if that helps.

Answer 4

first you have to find the gallery that you want to display your art work in, then converse with the owner/ manager about displaying your work. show a couple sample pieces, and see what happens!