hosting a solo show, part 3
this is the final section in a series of three
. you can check the previous two
posts to read other aspects of hosting a showing of your work.
paperwork...
create a numbered inventory list for each show
listing the title, media, price with a photo of the work so the person
taking the money can easily recognize the painting. one list is kept
at the check out. i also print out wall tags to be put along side
of the painting with this same information (your have seen this in galleries),
including the number of the painting so it can be matched with the list.
mistakes to be avoided....
have all your work ready to go well in advance of the show. this
includes signatures, final finishes, arrangement for hanging
and photographs. i have created unnecessary stress for myself
by deciding i wanted to paint fresh new paintings at the last minute.
there is enough work to be done before a show without this. i have done it
both ways. you will enjoy your show much more if you are relaxed
and not adding backings, etc. at the last minute. something always goes
wrong and then you are in a bind.
invite people, tell folks what you are up to. art is a great equalizer,
people of all ages and backgrounds can appreciate it.
it is fun, beautiful, colorful and people like to see it in a relaxed
environment. for my first two shows i did not send out my own
mailers until the very last minute. i didn't want to 'bother' people or
make them feel obligated. this is not the case. people want to know
and want to support you and want to see your latest work but
they won't know about it unless you tell them. think of all the
people who have asked you about your art. include them.
i have met many new people and have heard first hand responses
to my art. it is encouraging and exciting beyond what i have ever imagined.
pricing...
its personal. people tell me i should charge more. my answer is that i will
when i am ready. i have had people want to give be a business lesson so that
i will make more from my art.
i love that people can afford and enjoy my art. close to one hundred of my paintings
are in homes throughout the world. that makes me feel very good.
i am prolific, i paint daily. i don't want my paintings stored forever.
i want them out and hanging. each artists needs to make their own decision on this.
there are no rights or wrongs, no comparing, it does not make your art
better because the price tag is higher. i talked to a young gentleman who
bought two of my piece yesterday. he was mentored by an art
collector. while some art was out of his price dance,
he was grateful he could afford to have my art in his home.
putting your art out in the world...
i cannot believe that i am writing this. although i have been painting for
less than four years, it has taken a lifetime for me
to feel comfortable putting myself and now my art out into the world.
i have discovered that while it is difficult, it has many rewards.
i have met many new people some of whom have started to collect
my work. i have heard personal stories through art, have been
surprised at what my art has meant personally to people. i don't think
is is personal to me. i believe if you put your heartfelt work,
whatever it may be out, the response will surprise and delight you.
(in my opinion)
do not second guess yourself or what other people might like.
i could have sold the painting that my least favorite five
times over. it surprised me. i would have left it home but
i decided at the last minute to take it. you never know
what touches another. another example is a set of three
sketches i took to my last show in august. the person hosting
the show did not like it so it took it home. sunday, i sold
the set and took orders for several duplicates.
i hope you are encouraged to try this means of showing
your beautiful art. i would love to hear about it if you do.
happy paint party friday to all. thank you,
kristin and ava for hosting this creative group.
