Franka Zaumseil

I helped hang the first Sydney exhibition I`m part in and in going through all the steps involved I thought I share the things I learned to help others who are doing their first baby steps in that direction like I`m doing right now.

So the exhibition that we hung is on display right now at the TAP Gallery Sydney. More information is here. The opening night is this Wednesday (Sept 2nd) and we were busy setting everything up last weekend. (All credits go by the way to Andrew May who is a busy angel in organising all those wonderful things.)

Whether you’re exhibiting your own artwork or someone else’s, setting up an art exhibition can be a creative, fulfilling endeavor in and of itself. However, it does have its challenges and you’ll need good planning to pull it off:

1. Choose a theme. The theme is what will tie all of the artwork together and determine the title of the exhibition. The exhibition I`m part of right now is called “Inter-Medium” due to the different media that is presented. It`s a very simple title but a very effective one I believe. The planning for this one started well over 6 weeks ago.

2. Select a date. Give yourself plenty of time to pull everything together or else you might end up with a sloppy job and poor sales. It is always best to hold an art exhibition so that it includes a weekend. This will allow those working during weekdays to attend and often families will make an outing of the event.

3. Find artists with work to exhibit. Well, where better to start searching for fellow artist then here? If you have chosen a narrow theme, they might bring along existing artwork or they may have to paint or create new artworks. Consider more than just paintings – sculptures, models, artistic photos and glass works are just some other possible ideas that can be blended well with painted artwork or stand alone. The “Inter-Medium” show consists of paintings, photographs, pottery, sculptures and mixed media. And by the way – it looks great together, don`t you think? Even with some pieces (on the table) not hang yet…

4. Determine the location of your exhibition. You can rent a large hall, but many different kinds of spaces will do (such as a library or even someone’s home for example). Laminated flooring and white or pale walls with no pattern will look the best. Consider how many art pieces will be needed to fill the space and compare that with your estimate of what you will be exhibiting. Pay particular attention to available lighting. Large windows can be good, and track lighting can be especially useful in illuminating the work.

5. Presentation is the key. Think about it: would you buy your work the way you present it? Frame the artwork (if applicable). People are more likely to buy artwork that has been carefully and tastefully framed, rather than just simply mounted. But, framing requires a deeper investment on your part—one that you need to be confident will pay off. For example I have 5 of my best photos in this exhibition, this is a framed 12×8” print of my Inside a shell photo.

6. Set your prices. Consider all of your costs, including the fee for renting the space, the framing, advertising, the artist’s share, your share, and any costs related to hosting the event like wine or snacks. Decide whether an admission fee will be necessary or appropriate.

7. Advertise the art exhibition. Make invitations and posters displaying the same theme as the paintings, sculptures and other artwork. Include the exhibition title, location, date, time, and admission fee. Put a poster up on supermarket bulletin boards. Get in touch with local newspapers and tell them about the upcoming exhibition. Advertise at local art schools and universities. Register your event with local event websites or planers. This is a small thumbnail of the invite that was produced and distributed. Click on it and you will see it larger.

8. Set up the exhibition space. Transport the artwork carefully. Remember that stacking heavy, framed pieces can result in shattered glass. Arrange the artwork in the space using your own judgment. Try to develop a flow, and imagine how a visitor will see the room upon entering. Which piece will they see first? Consider adding descriptions to any or all of the pieces. Always make the prices clearly visible. Ensure that artwork is hanging properly, roped off (if needed) and that signs are provided telling people not to touch (again, if needed). Or conversely, if people are allowed to touch something, let them know! Most important thing is: get friends and fellow exhibitors to help you set it up – otherwise it can be a long night of work. That`s me and Nahomi Yoshizawa – Smile!

9. Entertain with food and drink at the opening night. If you can afford it, offer beverages such as champagne, wine and non-alcoholic choices, along with finger food or a buffet. Provide a pleasant background atmosphere. Play good music (classical or soft electronic) at a low level, especially at the end when people start leaving.

10. And last but not least: Be sales savvy. In addition to selling the artwork, it can also be profitable to print cards with photos of the paintings or other artworks and sell in packs of five or so. If a percentage (or all) of the proceeds go to charity, there’s a better chance people will come and buy the artwork.

That´s pretty much it. Sounds easy-peasy? Get started everyone! Happy exhibiting!