Preparing for an exhibition
TIPS ON PREPARING FOR AN EXHIBITION
Whether you’re having an art show by yourself in a solo exhibition or you’re showing your work as part of a group. Preparing for an exhibition can be daunting, and sometimes a little hectic trying to get everything ready and feel confident taking this next step in your art career.
It’s a huge accomplishment to display your artwork in a gallery or art event, and having your best work on display may help you attract potential buyers and other creative opportunities. Not to mention how valuable it is for networking and meeting new like-minded people who are interested in your work.
#1. Determine the best pieces of work to display
- It is hard to chose which work you should show at Art Exhibitions. Only select artwork that is representative of who you are / what you’re making now. Take a broad look your art portfolio and select pieces that fit into a cohesive theme. Display pieces that have a similar artistic style or colour or medium. The organisers may have already selected some pieces, and this will give you a better idea on others.
#2. Look and discover the rules on hanging. Do you have to use D-rings, does the artwork need to be framed??
-Most organisers and curators won’t frame your artwork for you, so you should be prepared to do this yourself or get a professional to do it.
#3. Label your artwork
If you don’t want to write directly onto the back of your art pieces, secure a paper label or post-it note on the back with the same info as the inventory or image card: Name, title, size, medium. This is an important step. All too often artists forget to label the back of their pieces, this little thing makes it easier and clearer for the curators.
#4. Price you artwork appropriately
When figuring out what to charge, remember to price your art fairly and consider the commissions that will most likely be included. I don't know an artist who has at some point their career got this wrong, it I believe it is part of the journey!
#5. Transportation
Figure out how you’re going to be getting to and from the venue with all your pieces. Make sure you know what time you’re meant to be there and find out if you’re required to stick around throughout the installation. Know where the loading zones are for the venue. If you don’t drive and if your art is too cumbersome for public transportation, ask a friend for a favour or take a cab.
How are you going to transport your artwork and keep it safe - I wrap my canvas' in installation wrapping - I will write a blog/post on -How I do this later.
*All the work above can be see and bought from The Rose Paterson Gallery, Weston Park
