How do you plan an art gallery grand opening?

Question

I've never attended an art gallery opening. What activities are typically involved? What kinds of food/drinks? Handouts?

Answer 1

Depends on the gallery,but usually wine/cheese -finger foods. That type of thing. Newspaper promo s sent,and email announcements to mailing lists- as well as some type of actual announcement- alot of times on postcards-could be mailed to interested parties,museums,other galleries etc. People usually kind of dress up- its an excuse to- check out other gallery opening info in your local art section of area magazine, museum,happenings sections etc. Meet and greet is the thing- esp the artists involved or those who might be patrons or bring patrons of course- openings are advertising.....handouts if any would be on particular Artists and/or the Gallery and owners etc- short Bios-= see what you can find in other Galleries to get ideas---

Answer 2

Pre show marketing ( at least two weeks in advance) using postcards (make these three to four weeks out) opening postings in newspapers, alternative papers, and any other mediums, word of mouth promotion, refreshments at opening, from simple wine and cheese to anything more elaborate (be careful, food does not equate to sales). A sign in book to get email and post office addresses for necessary followup and future shows (mailing lists of potential buyers are a must), and build and promote a web site (yahoo sites are very inexpensive and easy to build).