Episode 57: Preparing For An Exhibit

Rebecca is preparing for an upcoming exhibit in Atlanta, Georgia. She talks with Ross about her process and shares tips for artists preparing for a first show. www.rebeccacrowell.com www.squeegeepress.com www.facebook.com/messystudiopodcast Podcast notes—exhibit prep Focus for the podcast on a show where you have 8+ pieces; a small group, two person, or solo show Getting a show: Are you ready?? Request from your gallery if not asked Proposal to non-commercial space = find out requirements, write proposal/statement Consider how much time you need to produce the work Exhibit categories: Group show with colleagues at non-commercial space Group/2 person at a gallery --they will probably choose who you show with More and more common to NOT have solo shows Be open minded about who they pair you with STEPS to a show: How much lead up time are you given, varies from over a year to a few months Maybe a theme or just a selection of your work Early on: Find out the expectations for the size and number of pieces; this is usually flexible; if you want to include something you are already working on Ask for a timetable of when the gallery will want certain things: these include list of pieces, prices, artist statement, publicity photos (work and you) put these into your own calendar Ask if you have any $ obligations for the reception/costs/announcements Will there be an artist talk Date of opening reception--Think about whether/if you can attend. Lay some groundwork for travel, clear the dates, etc. Publicity: Usually they will want some advance publicity materials even if you are still working on the paintings—send image you think will be included (anecdote) Always good to have some bio pics on hand/you in studio etc. Send Updated resume and bio—check to see if they are using something out of date; sometimes they don’t ask just take from the web Closer to the show, or according to the timeline: Self-promotion on social media; don’t rely on the venue to do it all Artist statement specific to the work; is there a theme, something that ties it together? Listen to our podcast on the topic, Choose the work or the venue to do that—if you do it, you want cohesive but with some variety; try not to include anything you don’t consider as good as the rest just for the numbers. Price list—consistent with prices elsewhere and within the list itself Double check for accuracy Mention to gallery if you are raising prices from what is in their current inventory Most galleries can adjust numbers/sizes to what you want to send, don’t be afraid to ask Prep the work: Framing works on paper/unless frame is part of the overall aesthetic, keep it simple/neutral Preparing panels and stretched canvas—framing not usually necessary for anything but small work; small work maybe/maybe not, consult with gallery Wood panels—sand and clean up, wood treatment up to you Canvas—touch up stains and splatters, somewhat optional depending on the aesthetic of the work, clean vs. expressionistic, opinions of gallery Wire the back, use good wire and d-rings, no clip type hangers or cup hooks Sign work somewhere, back/front options Title Copyright symbol and date/optional Wrap for transport of shipping/nonstick paper or foam over the front; encase in bubble wrap ---allow plenty of time Can just use blankets if transporting in car but best to wrap in plastic at least. Consider how you would deal with the work if your car broke down or was in an accident. Will you need to bring it into a hotel overnight if travelling in extreme heat or cold? Decide what to wear to the opening! At the reception: do your best to be friendly, chatty Be on time Look nice Don’t be discouraged by lack of sales at opening Ask gallery person to introduce you to people/ they don’t always think of this It’s tempting due to social anxiety, but do not just ang out with your friends or drink too much Do not pass out your own business card After the show is underway: Check in with the gallery once in a while but don’t bug them; sales take time Continue some self-promotion