How to Host Art Salons

Algonquin Round Table

Whether you consider them a convergence of great minds, a venue to perform, or a setting in which to do creative work, art salons can invigorate artists and create opportunities for creative discourse and artistic cross-pollination. Forget Dorothy Parker and her vicious circle. You don't need a fabulous New York apartment and a bar full of hard liquor to host a great salon. Good lighting and even better ideas are all you need to create the momentum for the new era of art happenings.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Venue
• List of contacts

The Modern Day Salon

1. Locate a venue for your salon. It may seem easier to host the event in your house, but the aftermath can kill the buzz of any good art energy that was generated. Many cafes are willing to stay open late, reserve a few tables or even set aside a room for artists who promise to buy coffee or wine. If the salon is for getting work done, pay particular attention to lighting issues. If writers have to squint to read from their journals or that life study is becoming more and more abstract, either bring in extra reading lamps or find another spot.

2. Determine the purpose of your salon. If it's a spot for sharing new work, you have to ensure other participants plan on bringing material. If the intent is to perform work for the public, you must meet with artists to determine a roster and then publicize the event. If you prefer a setting in which artists are working on projects, the space must accommodate assorted artists' materials. A salon can be a combination of some or all of these elements, and it can evolve over time.

3. Establish a network of artists. Talk to artist friends, post fliers at cafes, leave your number with artists at their studios, make announcements at art classes, or use Craigslist to gather artists of various disciplines. Once you have a roster of interested parties, it is easiest to maintain communication if you create an email address list or a Yahoo Group.

4. Invite brainstorming. Unless you want the weight of the salon's success wholly on your shoulders, it pays to open up the salon to suggestions and feedback. Some salons are thematic, which compels artists to create a new piece of work for the event. Other salons may emphasize multidisciplinary projects created amongst group members. Conclude every salon with an expression of gratitude and a plan for the next salon.

5. Celebrate success. When the salon has had a chance to flourish, create a catchy name for it and publicize it. Write a newsletter, host an open studio, participate in a group show, or publish a collection of participants' work. Promoting the salon ensures its momentum and, ultimately, its survival. Art can be a lonely business, so use the salon to encourage interaction with one another as well as with audiences and patrons.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose convenient locations for salons.

• Write down important dates and information so you can e-mail it to the group later.