How to Show Art Work when the Gallery Says No Thanks

There are places in the town where you live where you can show your artwork when the big gallery you solicited said, "No, thanks."

Other artists may need to find venues other than galleries to show their artworks as well. Visual artists living in art-rich communities where there is a lot of local competition will need to get creative about display opportunities.

Or on the other hand, in towns without large art venues, it is important for artists to find smaller and less obvious places to show your art.

How to Show Art Work When The Gallery Says No Thanks

1. Show Where You Go

The most successful approach to finding a place in your town to display your artwork is to solicit a place that you go to frequently. Make a list of all the places you go to each day, each week, and each month.

Make a special trip, or the next time you visit note if the establishment currently exhibits any art work, if it is local, and if it is for sale.

Also note if they have available wall space where artworks could be shown.

2. Meet and Network

When you go into your favorite local places in town, you probably already know someone who works there. Have a friendly conversation about the artwork on wall. Find out if they ever change it, and who is in charge.

If you're not already acquainted with the staff, get friendly, friendly not fake, and chat someone up.

Once you've established a rapport with the owner, manager or even an employee, inquire about exhibiting there.

3. Always Be Prepared

You should always have something with you that establishes you as a professional and serious visual artist. It could be as simple as a business card. It could be a book-size portfolio. You may even have a portfolio of originals in your vehicle.

When the opportunity arises in a conversation about your art, or where people can see your art, speak up and say you are always looking for new venues to show your art.

That person may not be able to help you show your artwork, but they might know someone who does.

4. Know Your Audience