A 3rd Friday FAQ

Q. How Do I Show My Art in Millville?

A. We get at least one request a week from someone that would like to exhibit in Millville. Hopefully this will get you on your way...

First of all, showing in Millville is no different than showing in any other city or arts district. You are obviously an artist to be inquiring. Here are some recommendations.

Take the time to visit Millville's galleries. Look at the work they exhibit. Then contact the galleries that exhibit work that would compliment your style and media. For instance, don't bring abstract work to a gallery that exhibits seascapes. Don't bring a seascape to a gallery that shows photographs.

Okay, you've identified galleries that might show your work. Mail, or hand deliver a package that contains your resume, biography, and at least 10 samples of your work. What, you don't have ten? Well, get to work. If all you have under your belt is 2 or 3 paintings, then you need to concentrate on developing a body of work before you think about showing.

Also, DO NOT walk into a gallery on 3rd Friday and expect to be greeted warmly as you attempt to hawk your art. The gallery Director/Owner/Manager has their hands full already. They do not need someone coming in taking up their time on the busiest day of the month. If you decide to visit for business purposes, do it on a slow day.

Still having no luck? Your best bet, then, might be to join one of the larger galleries. The RRCA, for instance, has slots open for Associate Artists. Your work is submitted to a jury, and if it meets professional criteria, then you will be invited to become an Associate Artist Member. I believe the cost is $100 a year, tax deductible since you are a professional artist.

What? You are not a professional artist? Then your best bet to to work your way up the ranks. The RRCA as well as many other galleries have open-juried shows. For a fee usually around $10 or $20, you submit 2 or 3 works around a specific theme. If selected, your work will hang in a group exhibit.

This is the way every other artist has worked their way up the ranks. Most galleries have several of these sorts of shows a year. And many galleries will waive or reduce the jury fee if you are a supporting member in good standing.

And finally, don't balk when a gallery tells you they take 30% or 40% commission from a sale. We hear a lot of complaints about commissions from newbie artists. If you think 40% is a lot of money to take as a commission from the sale of 'your work', then we suggest you rent the space, pay the utilities and salaries for a gallery that is open every day. After you calculate those costs, 40% is not a lot. In New York City - some galleries take 60%.

Hop this helps.