top tips to connect with your local art community anywhere
Photo: Luna Wang lunawangjl
Some years ago, I moved to a new city and decided to get more involved with art locally. I decided to dive in the local art scene once the summer arrived. It turns out I had no idea what to do or where to begin, especially not having any previous event experience.
Let’s discuss a few areas in which you can get involved.
Art shows and festivals
Fees: usually low unless it’s a bigger show. Usually, it’s under $50 for a vendor booth. Larger festivals are often juried to participate and charge higher booth fee (few hundred $).
Be mindful - smaller shows, craft shows, or pop-up events gather a crowd that is not shopping for fine art or expensive pieces, so be prepared to have a few small works that still are representing of what you do but on a smaller scale. I advise on having examples of larger pieces, so that attendees can see first hand what you are capable of. The same goes for events that are food and music driven, most likely they won’t bring many serious collectors, but you still may benefit by showing up and letting people know what you do, just make sure you weigh pros and cons.
Note: some events accept applications months in advance, so don’t be discouraged if you missed the deadline, most likely the new application deadline for the next season will be approaching shortly. I even write on my monthly calendar to check on any events happening as I hear of them.
Arts councils and other art organizations
Fees: $0-50/year
Nearly every town has an organization that devotes their time to working with local artists. That can be either a non-profit or a gallery that often posts calls for art. You can sign up to become a member for a low yearly fee ($20-$50), so that you can take advantage of the resources they have to offer. They will notify you about any upcoming development or show opportunities. As usual, attending those and showing support for your local fellow artists is great for networking!
Local small businesses
Fees: free or low % of earnings
While showcasing your art at a coffee shop or a restaurant might not be your main end goal, this can be a great practice, especially if you have never exhibited your art before. You get to work with a venue and practice setting up/ taking down your exhibit (which is a whole beast on its own). Most of the time, the venues are not opposed to you having an opening night, where you can invite friends and patrons to view your art and ask you any questions.
Most local business allow you to set up a show for free, as it drives a positive image for them (and customers!) as well. If the venue has an art exhibit set up system and organizers in place (a lot of times they are volunteers), they might charge a small fee, a low percentage of your earnings. That way, you don’t need to pay if nothing sells.
Facebook and other social media
Fees: $0 or entry fee for an event
I know, I hate it too, but Facebook offers a calendar of your local events, and this is exactly how you can discover any new happenings around you. When you meet or see artists whose work you enjoy - give them a follow, show support, and stay in touch; they can be your window into your local art scene. But remember - don’t stay in touch for hopes in opportunities and if there is not a genuine connection - it will be taxing on your mental health.
Volunteer
A lot of people get to know others by volunteering at an organization of personal interest, which is also a great way to get to know other like-minded people.
Teach a workshop
If you have a skill to share, you can partner with a local art organization or a small business to host a workshop. You can discuss the terms that fit you both, and in the process you end up meeting people that are interested in the work you do.
Benefits:
NETWORKING! Introvert? Welcome to the club, but when you keep seeing same people at the places you visit - you become more acquainted and your circle expands. Attending or participating in any of the events listed above is a great way to promote yourself, and even if no one buys anything immediately, there is a good chance they will reach out eventually. Also, being locally involved is a great way to meet other artists and expand your clientele by showing local residents that you exist and presenting what you have to offer. All of those can be great practice for engaging with collectors and working with venues. I was able to make great friends and fill up a whole page of my artist resume in the past year.
If you have any questions on applying to galleries and prepping your CV letter or artist statement, refer to many other articles from our blog. We are here to help!
Wishing you tremendous success, however you define it.
Svitlana M