How do artists get their work recognised?

Question

I've started to dabble in painting with oils. I'm not great but would like others to see my work to pass opinion, not neccesarily to buy but that would be an added bonus! What's a good way?

Answer 1

My mom is an artist. She puts her art wherever they will take it. She always has a small info label about the piece that she puts along with it in case anyone is interested in purchasing.

Coffee shops and restaurants usually have showings or will be willing to display your artwork, if it is pleasing to them. Seek out galleries that are accepting. Most galleries where I'm from are glad to receive local art, even if it is just one or two pieces. Of course they want a commission on it if it sells.

We also have an artist's guild where we live. You may have one near you. They all get together and paint and talk about who is hosting juried shows and where there are showings. In my experience, the artist's are just like you. Dabblers who want to try to make a go of things, but mainly, show off their talent.

I've been trying to talk my mom into setting up a website to show off her work to the world. There's another idea for you.
Have fun with it.

Answer 2

While there are many ways to go about it, the process when starting out, no matter how good one is can be painfully slow. I'm a self-taught artist who's been doing oil painting for about two and half years now. I spent the first year learning to paint before i was finally good enough and able to put together a portfolio of my work. I then set out to let anyone and everyone i came in contact with know, that i was an artist. I would manage to bring this up durring the course of a conversation, so as not to come across as bragging. Posting artwork on line, business cards, membership in an art gallery, friends and family can be important first steps in getting the word and your artwork out there. Although i've never sold a piece i've created, i do get hired to do work for people who request particular paintings like portraits, landscapes, still lifes, etc. and i owe this to having put together a well rounded and diverse portfolio of work. I have a regular job, so this is something i can take my time on and have fun with. It was scary at first, talking to people, making the deal, and getting my first commission, but it's all part of the learning process and it does get easier. My art can be checked out at hellosanantonio.com in local artists under my artist name ''Guerro''. Have fun, do the work, and hope to see your work posted on a site someday soon.

Answer 3

if you just want opinions you could take a class. Then you will get your teacher's and your class mates opinion.
Some places/towns also have art clubs which do have critiques for members. This means a bunch of people show up with some of their art work and everybody exchanges opinions. If there isn't anything where you live, maybe you could start something like this.
If you want the potential of selling you have to participate in art shows. There are usually some local websites and/or ads in the classified section of the newspaper with a call for artists. Look at those for upcoming exhibitions. You can also look at websites of art centers and galleries. Usually they also post artist calls there.

Answer 4

Local art groups around my way, often hold exhibitions (in Church Halls, etc) The paintings are framed and a purchase price put on them - if yours sold, it would certainly give you a positive opinion.
Ask at your local library for Art Groups in your area - libraries normally hold lists of all local Societies; fellow amateur artists would be able to give you some pointers.
I've just had a go at my first water colour and I shall definitely frame that (cheapie from Woolworths) - it's not up to much but I enjoyed doing it. Colin Kent, move over!

Answer 5

go to your local community centre and ask if you can put up a display of your work

Answer 6

Normally after they pass away....................