Submitting your artwork to galleries can be an intimidating process, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of getting accepted. Here’s a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the art gallery submission process successfully.
1. Research Potential Galleries
Start by identifying galleries that align with your artistic style and career goals:
Visit Galleries: Spend time visiting galleries, attending exhibitions, and understanding their aesthetic and the type of artists they represent.
Online Research: Explore gallery websites, social media pages, and online art directories to gather information about their submission policies and past exhibitions.
Make a List: Create a list of potential galleries that you feel would be a good fit for your work.
2. Prepare Your Portfolio
Your portfolio is your most important tool for making a strong impression:
Select Your Best Work: Choose 10-20 of your strongest pieces that reflect a consistent style and theme.
High-Quality Images: Ensure your images are high-resolution (at least 300 dpi) and professionally photographed to capture the true colors and details of your work.
Organize Your Portfolio: Arrange your images in a logical sequence, starting and ending with your strongest pieces. Include titles, dimensions, mediums, and brief descriptions for each work.
3. Craft Your Artist Statement
An artist statement provides context and insight into your work:
Introduction: Begin with a brief introduction about yourself and your artistic journey.
Inspiration and Themes: Explain the themes, concepts, and inspirations behind your work.
Creative Process: Describe your creative process and techniques.
Personal Connection: Share what your art means to you and how you hope it resonates with viewers.
4. Create a Professional Artist Resume/CV
Your resume or CV should highlight your artistic accomplishments and experiences:
Personal Information: Include your name, contact information, and website or social media handles.
Education: List any relevant education or training in the arts.
Exhibitions: Include solo and group exhibitions, starting with the most recent.
Awards and Honors: Mention any awards, grants, or recognitions you’ve received.
Publications and Media: Highlight any publications, media coverage, or catalog mentions.
5. Write a Compelling Cover Letter
A personalized cover letter can make a significant impact:
Address the Curator by Name: Find out the name of the curator or gallery director and address them directly.
Introduce Yourself: Provide a brief introduction about yourself and your artistic practice.
Explain Your Interest: Explain why you’re interested in their gallery and how your work aligns with their program.
Highlight Your Achievements: Briefly mention any significant exhibitions, awards, or recognitions.
Express Gratitude: Thank them for considering your submission and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
6. Follow Submission Guidelines
Each gallery has its own submission guidelines. Follow them meticulously to demonstrate your professionalism:
Format Requirements: Ensure your portfolio, artist statement, resume, and cover letter are formatted according to the gallery’s specifications.
Submission Method: Some galleries prefer digital submissions via email or online forms, while others may request physical submissions. Follow their preferred method.
Include All Required Materials: Double-check that you’ve included everything requested, such as a portfolio, artist statement, resume, cover letter, and any additional materials.
7. Submit Your Application
Once you’ve prepared all your materials, it’s time to submit:
Digital Submissions: If submitting digitally, ensure your files are properly named and formatted (e.g., PDF or JPEG). Attach all required documents and include a brief email introducing yourself and referencing your attached materials.
Physical Submissions: If submitting physically, ensure your materials are professionally presented in a portfolio or folder. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want your materials returned.
8. Follow Up Professionally
Following up shows your interest and professionalism:
Wait Patiently: Allow a reasonable amount of time (usually 4-8 weeks) before following up.
Polite Inquiry: Send a polite email or make a phone call to inquire about the status of your submission.
Express Gratitude: Regardless of the outcome, thank the gallery for considering your work.
9. Handle Rejections Gracefully
Rejections are part of the process. Use them as learning experiences:
Stay Positive: Don’t take rejections personally. Understand that galleries receive many submissions and can only accept a few.
Seek Feedback: If possible, ask for feedback on your submission to help improve future applications.
Keep Creating: Continue developing your skills and creating new work. Persistence is key.
10. Celebrate Success
When you receive an acceptance, celebrate your achievement:
Prepare for the Exhibition: Work closely with the gallery to prepare for the exhibition. Follow their guidelines for delivering and installing your work.
Promote the Exhibition: Use your website, social media, and email newsletters to promote the exhibition and attract visitors.
Network and Engage: Attend the opening reception, network with attendees, and engage with viewers to make the most of the opportunity.
Conclusion
Submitting your art to galleries can be a daunting process, but with careful preparation and a professional approach, you can increase your chances of success. Research potential galleries, prepare a compelling portfolio, follow submission guidelines, and handle the process with patience and persistence. Each submission brings you one step closer to achieving your artistic goals.