I realize this is a forum for ADs to give advice to illustrators, but maybe you might know the answer to this question: How do artists get portfolio advice for the gallery world/fine art world? Currently I work as an illustrator, but I've always wanted to be a fine artist, and I'm trying to evolve my style in that direction. Especially, how does one do this if they don't live in a major city? Thank you!
Great question, as the advice for approaching galleries and curators is much the same as approaching ADs:
—Make a wish list of clients (in this case galleries), remembering to research what smaller clients are the stepping stones to getting there. In other words, look at the artists that show at your dream galleries, go to their sites, see where they started out, add those galleries to your list
—Follow that list on social media and sign up for their newsletters, so you don’t miss any group shows or open calls (Cafe Call for Entries is also a great resource) - a gallery is not going to offer you your own show right off the bat, they are going to let you in a group show first and see how you perform
—If the gallery is local then go to all their openings/events. If they are not local, consider planning an annual trip to the area and email in advance and see if the gallery owner or curator will meet you when you go. If they can’t, then bring a physical promo piece/small pack of postcards or something to leave for them
—All areas have galleries, no matter how small. If you are truly starting from scratch then find the teeny galleries in your area and work on going to those openings, meeting folks, getting in group shows, and maybe having your own shows locally — it’s all good practice, and you can put it on your fine art CV.
—Once you have 5+ pieces of fine art, make a new section on your portfolio website. If you don’t have a direct-to-fan newsletter then start one now.
—As far as getting feedback, that’s tough just like it is with art directors: we’re busy folks and you’re asking us to work for free to give you help. Many of us are happy to do it when we can, but there’s only so much time in the day to do that and still do our jobs. The best advice for ADs still applies to galleries: follow us on social media, see where we’re going to physically be, introduce yourself, have a conversation. Sometimes we’ll do reviews online, but it’s sporadic. If you’re visiting our town then email a a month ahead and see if we can meet you for a few minutes.
—Agent KillFee
