5 professional tips for getting into a gallery

Photo by Creative Commons 

You know how to get into the gallery. You have a killer portfolio of current work. You've researched and targeted galleries that feature relevant work. You have polished your resume and . Everything is prepared with the utmost care and professionalism. Verify. Verify. Verify.

But sometimes a little extra effort can go a long way in getting the attention and interest of the target gallery. Here are some ways to go the extra mile to give you an extra shot at success.

1. Referrals are king

When you post your portfolio to the gallery, you are just another name in the hat. The owner and director does not know you and is not familiar with your professionalism. This makes you somewhat risky. But, if someone they know and trust—especially another artist they enjoyed working with—sings you praises, you immediately have a leg up. Gallery owners may be hesitant to open their doors to an artist they don't know about, but a call or comment from an artist they trust is taken as an endorsement of your work and your personal brand.

To build the relationships you need to get recommendations, it's important to get involved in the local arts community. Join a local or create a shop in a shared studio space. One of the best ways to get started is to find an artist in your community that you admire and invite him or her over for coffee.

2. Create your own luck

Again, a gallery owner is more likely to pay attention to your portfolio if you have at least some familiarity with it. So how else can you make yourself known? If there is a juried show that will be hosted by one of your target galleries, consider participating in it. Go to exhibitions at the gallery and be sure to find the right time to introduce yourself to the owner. If the gallery has a frame shop, you may be able to use it for your work. Get creative! The goal is to put yourself in the position of meeting the gallery owner and getting a chance to present yourself and your work. Don't sit back and wait. Make things happen!

3. Respect their time

When a deadline approaches, the last thing you want is for a stranger to interrupt you, especially if it's not urgent. If you approach a gallery owner when he is stressed, busy, or overwhelmed, you are not doing yourself any favors. Instead, do your homework and find a time when things seem to slow down. If the gallery seems to be busy all the time, it is recommended to avoid contact with the owner or director during the transition period. When they start or end a show, they have a lot to worry about. Don't add stress!

Some galleries have set times or dates when they will view portfolios. This is great news for you because it is clear when they will be ready and able to check your work. Take advantage of this. Be sure to follow the protocol exactly and use this opportunity to shine.

4. Keep your eyes open

Remember what you are building? Use it to unlock opportunities that others don't know exist. Think outside the box and see any involvement in the art world as a way to support your career. It may mean stepping out of your comfort zone. Volunteer at a gallery or art museum, write reviews, work for an art manager, draft blog posts, go to lectures and exhibitions, help with an art competition. Anything. When you participate in events, keep an eye out for new opportunities. You can learn about a corporate commission, a public art project, or find another fun way to grow your profile and build your business.

5. Learn from failure

In the business of art, you cannot lose. You either win or you learn. They will most likely tell you no. Or you may not get a response at all. All this is normal. The competition for a gallery spot is incredibly high, so chances are you won't get into every gallery you admire. Learn from failure and reflect on the process. Maybe the gallery isn't right for you, or maybe it's because your work needs further development. Maybe it's just not the right time. Either way, don't shrug your shoulders and move on to the next thing. Do your best and use this new knowledge to develop your approach, grow your work, and strengthen your brand.

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