How to Submit an Exhibition Proposal to a Gallery

Getting your art out there for others to see is essential to selling your work. In most galleries, review committees meet to select exhibition pieces. Here's how to submit your work for consideration.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Visit galleries to view the types of art displayed and to see if yours meets the gallery's guidelines. Find a gallery near you by visiting the Art Gallery Guide website.

2. Ask the gallery representative for a copy of the gallery's proposal submission guidelines.

3. Write a cover letter for your proposal consisting of a one-page summary. Describe your work, and state when you would like to have it displayed.

4. Consider offering a lecture or presentation as a complement to your exhibit, and include a description in your proposal.

5. Create samples or photos of your work. The review board will want to be able to verify the quality of your work.

6. Include a resume detailing your previous exhibitions or other related experience as well as a list of references. Be sure to include all your contact information.

7. Add any other required documentation or other materials as directed in the gallery's guidelines. Follow these guidelines to the letter. Leaving something out could mean your proposal will be rejected.

Tips & Warnings

• Submit your proposal to the gallery by the deadline.
• Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope in your submission packet.
• Many galleries will not supply food and drinks for your reception; however, it is acceptable for you to supply your guests with refreshments.
• Some galleries charge a fee for exhibitions and/or a commission on sales.
• You may need to supply liability insurance.

Resources

• Find a fine art gallery in your area.

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on 4/17/2008 When sending submission packets to commercial galleries in hopes of getting represented don't get overwhelmed. There are tons of galleries out there. So you’ll need to first compile the contact info, then sort it out and choose the galleries you are most interested in submitting to.

Low cost marketing systems and mailing lists like:
Mailingaide.com
are available to save you the time it takes to do the first part.

Sorting out the info and choosing the galleries to target is a very specific – and very individualized process. Mailingaide.com offers some links on its site to other articles and resources to help you do that, too.

Good luck and don’t get discouraged. It takes most people years to get represented. But, once you do you’ll have a dedicated agent showing, promoting, and selling your work – while you focus on making it.