So you've finally got gallery representation? Congratulations! That's a big milestone in your career as a visual artist. Now you need to make sure that you get off on the right foot with your gallery. Too often, artists are so pleased to be accepted into a space, they forget to get the details.
Don't wait to be shocked and end up feeling burned. Ask yourself, "Am I taking responsibility for my part of the deal? Have I done the homework/research necessary to satisfy myself on all of the issues before getting involved?"
Even if you're friends with the gallery owner (especially if you're friends), have a frank talk about all the terms and conditions of your business relationship. This will make sure that both parties understand any implied or actual terms of agreement. Knowing the pertinent information, artists can set their prices accordingly, or strike a dealt to spilt costs upfront.
It may seem like overkill, but get everything in writing. This applies to everything from who pays for refreshments for openings, to who hangs the show, to what expenses are deducted from sales. This will make sure that both parties understand any implied or actual terms of agreement.
The point is, none of us like surprises. With clarity comes success and the time to take care of other needs like public relations and contacting those who have purchased or show interest in your work in the past; these people are your biggest warm market.
I love the expression "The way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time." Taking this important next step in your art career can be daunting, but being rewarded with sales will make it all worthwhile.
Don't wait to be shocked and end up feeling burned. Ask yourself, "Am I taking responsibility for my part of the deal? Have I done the homework/research necessary to satisfy myself on all of the issues before getting involved?"
Even if you're friends with the gallery owner (especially if you're friends), have a frank talk about all the terms and conditions of your business relationship. This will make sure that both parties understand any implied or actual terms of agreement. Knowing the pertinent information, artists can set their prices accordingly, or strike a dealt to spilt costs upfront.
It may seem like overkill, but get everything in writing. This applies to everything from who pays for refreshments for openings, to who hangs the show, to what expenses are deducted from sales. This will make sure that both parties understand any implied or actual terms of agreement.
The point is, none of us like surprises. With clarity comes success and the time to take care of other needs like public relations and contacting those who have purchased or show interest in your work in the past; these people are your biggest warm market.
I love the expression "The way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time." Taking this important next step in your art career can be daunting, but being rewarded with sales will make it all worthwhile.
About the Author:
It may seem like an impossibly complicated task to figure out how to sell your art, but treating your art career as a business will help you successfully sell your artat galleries and online.
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