I’ve had some really fun success getting my work accepted into exhibitions. I realized that there were a few things that I assess and consider before submitting my work. It makes all the difference in the world if you consider these points as guidelines before submitting your work.
- LOCATION
Where is the exhibit? Is it located in a booming metropolitan city? or in the boondocks of Connecticut? Location also counts too as a higher chance of potential art buyers/collectors.
- ENTRY FEE?
Sometimes as another way to make money exhibitions require an entry fee. Really consider the exhibition and what its’ worth is. Is it really worth it to submit 3 images at an entry fee of $40 to an exhibition located in the boondocks of Connecticut? Probably not. $15 dollars for 1 image for an entry fee for an exhibition in the boondocks of Connecticut is reasonable. $20+ for an image to have your artwork displayed digitally (minimal effort on the curator and gallery) to have your artwork displayed in a metropolitan city isn’t worth it. But say, a no entry fee is the best way to go – obviously.
- THE VISION OF THE EXHIBITION
The title is a GREAT hint on what the curators’ vision of the exhibition is. If, for example, you find a call for submissions for an exhibit of My Little Pony fanart, you don’t want to submit a beautiful detailed drawing of your mother’s sister’s cat. Your work has to be relevant and connected to the curator’s vision. My work, thankfully, is earth centered, so that means it has a wide variety of opportunities. It also has a spiritual side to it as well.
- PRESENTATION
Like anything in the art field, presentation is key. The way you present your artwork is crucial too. So generally speaking what I include in the body of the email; is my name, year of artwork made, materials/medium, concept, size, etc. Provide all the information they need at first hand. It makes an impression and says you really care about what you do.
I hope these pointers were helpful for you for getting your artwork into an exhibition. Sometimes a little luck helps as well. You won’t know if your work is successful unless you try.
Kristi Beisecker is a graphic designer, photographer, printmaker and alternative scientist whose interested in making images through two contrasting elements. She is also a blogger in lifestyle, travel, wellness and health, art and design, beauty and fashion.
