Art Exhibitions: Your Practical Guide to Getting In, Organising, and Selling
If you’ve ever wondered how artists actually get a show, who pulls the strings behind the scenes, or how to sell a piece while you’re on the floor, you’re in the right place. This page pulls the most useful advice from our top articles and turns it into a quick‑read roadmap. No fluff, just real steps you can try today.
How Artists Land Exhibitions
First off, getting a spot isn’t about luck; it’s about showing up in the right way. Start by making a strong, focused portfolio. Pick 10‑12 pieces that represent your voice and keep the images high‑quality. When you reach out to a gallery, attach a brief intro that explains why your work fits their program. Keep the email under 150 words and link to an online version of your portfolio.
Next, build genuine relationships. Attend opening nights, talk to curators, and ask thoughtful questions about their current shows. People remember a face that shows interest, not just a cold email. If you can’t get into a big gallery, look for community centres, pop‑up spaces, or coworking venues that host art nights. Those smaller shows often become a stepping stone.
Don’t ignore the digital side. Share process videos and behind‑the‑scenes photos on Instagram or TikTok. Tag the gallery you’d like to work with and use hashtags like #artexhibition or #gallerycall. A well‑timed post can catch a curator scrolling through their feed.
Lastly, be ready to adapt. Some exhibitions need a theme, others want a specific medium. Read the brief carefully and match your submission to those requirements. If a gallery asks for a statement, keep it short—two to three sentences that explain the idea behind the pieces.
Selling Your Work at Shows
Seeing your art on a wall is exciting, but turning that into sales takes a few extra moves. First, price your work realistically. Look at recent sales from similar artists and set a price that reflects your experience and the size of the piece. Write the price clearly on a small tag; hidden numbers make buyers uneasy.
Second, tell a story. When a visitor asks about a piece, share the inspiration in one or two sentences. A personal anecdote makes the artwork feel more valuable and helps the buyer connect.
Third, make your booth inviting. Use simple lighting, keep the layout tidy, and have a few business cards ready. If you can, offer a small hand‑out with a QR code that links to your online shop. That way, people can buy after they leave the venue.
Finally, follow up. Send a short thank‑you email to anyone who asked a question or gave you a card. Mention the piece they liked and include a link to purchase. A quick follow‑up can turn a curious visitor into a buyer.
Putting these steps into practice will boost your chances of getting into shows, making connections, and selling art. Start with one exhibition, apply the tips, and watch the results grow. The art world rewards those who keep moving forward, so keep creating, keep reaching out, and keep sharing your story.
