Do's and Don'ts for Attending Gallery Shows

As our community puts on dozens of exhibitions this May as part of our Taking Up Space Initiative, we hope you are getting out and attending any of the shows in your area! Generally, we hope you make it a part of your art practice to plug in to your local community and support the artists in your city or state. Here in Episode #37 of the Thriving Artist Podcast, Do’s and Don’ts for Attending Gallery Shows, we are sharing some quick tips in the form of things to DO when you go to an art show and things NOT TO DO.   Jamie and Kaylan’s Do’s and Don’ts for Attending Gallery Shows are:   Sign In: Make your presence known and provide documentation that you were there to the artist and the gallerist. Sign the artist’s book with a thoughtful comment and sign up for the gallery newsletter. Help Promote the Show: Share promotional Instagram posts about the show you are attending and post about being there. The gallery and the artist will really appreciate it if you spread the word. Attend the Artist Talk: If the exhibition or gallery is hosting an artist talk, definitely go to this!! You’ll be inspired and you are making your presence known again.  Ask the Artist or Gallery a Thoughtful Question: Ask a thoughtful question at any artist talks or at the opening. Everyone appreciates when someone wants to engage with the work more deeply.  Don’t ask for your own show: This is not a good way to form an authentic connection and build a relationship. Don’t ask the artist to help you get a show at their opening and definitely don’t directly ask the gallery owner for a show there.  Don’t go to the show expecting an outcome for yourself: Attending shows is about relationship building, making yourself known, and establishing yourself as a reliable member of your local art community over time. Be patient and build some trust and authentic connection with the gallerists and artists instead of just expecting a hand out or immediate result for yourself. Don’t forget to follow up: Send a note, email, or even an Instagram message to the artist and gallerist and just tell them how much you loved the show. A little support can go a long way! We hope this is helpful on your journey to becoming a confident and considerate member of your local art community. As always, we are here for you, we are cheering you on, and we believe in the work you are doing as thriving artists.