We’re absolutely delighted to have had the pleasure of hosting so many new faces at the gallery lately! In our commitment to making everyone’s visit as enjoyable as possible, we’ve put together some friendly tips on how to make the most of your gallery experience.
Art galleries are not only spaces for appreciating creativity but also environments that demand a certain level of decorum and respect. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a novice exploring the realm of creativity, understanding the etiquette surrounding gallery openings is crucial. Just as art itself demands respect, so too do the spaces that showcase it.Here, we present a little guide outlining the dos and don’ts of art gallery etiquette.
The Dos:
- Enjoy & Engage with the Artwork: Take the time to immerse yourself in the artwork on display. Let each piece evoke thought and emotion, but remember never to touch the art. Appreciate the artist’s skill and vision from a respectful distance.
- Dress Appropriately: Ensure you’re dressed tastefully for the occasion. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as many galleries may lack seating, requiring you to be on your feet for extended periods.
- Share the Event on Social Media: Spread the word about the gallery opening, but be mindful of the institution’s photography rules. Flash photography is generally discouraged as it can damage artwork. Respect the artist’s work and the gallery’s guidelines when sharing your experience online.
- Talk to the Artist About Their Work: Engage with the artists present at the event in a positive manner. Compliment their work, inquire about their inspiration, discuss their creative process, and express genuine curiosity about their techniques and insights on the art industry.
- Talk to Gallery Owners/Employees: Feel free to engage with gallery owners and employees, but avoid monopolizing their time. While it’s acceptable to discuss the artwork and the event, refrain from negatively criticizing the art or space. Remember that the primary purpose of the opening is for artists and gallery owners to conduct business and sell art.
- Do engage and connect with fellow members of the art community during gallery events, this helps foster a vibrant and supportive environment. These gatherings provide invaluable opportunities to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and forge meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. By actively participating in conversations and networking with fellow patrons, you not only enrich your own experience but also contribute to the collective growth and vitality of the art community. Embrace the camaraderie and diversity within the art world, and celebrate the shared passion for creativity and expression that unites us all.
- Have Fun Appropriately: Enjoy the event responsibly. If refreshments are offered, drink responsibly and avoid treating food offerings as a personal buffet. Maintain decorum and respect the space and its purpose throughout the evening.
The Don’ts: These guidelines should be self-evident.
- Refrain from vaping or smoking within the gallery premises or restrooms.
- Avoid wearing backpacks that extend at least 12 inches out from your back.
- Ensure your children are supervised and refrain from allowing them to run loose until requested to stop by gallery staff or fellow patrons.
- Avoid complaining about the quality or brand of complimentary beer, wine, or liquor being served.
- Do not lean on or touch the artwork on display.
- Refrain from taking photographs with flash or video recording every piece of art in the gallery.
- Dispose of empty glasses appropriately instead of leaving them scattered, especially near artwork.
The Never Evers:
- Do Not Leave Promotional Materials Discreetly: Avoid leaving business cards, brochures, or show announcements around the gallery without permission. Likewise, avoid posting an announcement for your upcoming show in the comments sections of invitations to other artists’ shows. Such actions are considered intrusive and disrespectful to both the gallery and the exhibiting artists.
- Avoid Soliciting Gallery Space from Artists, Curators, or Employees: It’s imperative to refrain from approaching artists, curators, or gallery employees with requests for gallery space. This includes asking artists to secure a show for you at the gallery, requesting introductions to gallery owners, or seeking endorsements from artists to present your work to the gallery. Additionally, introducing yourself to the gallery owner under false pretenses, such as claiming to be a friend of the artist, and then soliciting them for a show is highly inappropriate. Similarly, cornering the gallery owner to express your urgent need for a show demonstrates a lack of professionalism and respect for the gallery’s protocol. Lastly, avoid seeking insider tips or advice on approaching the gallery owner for a show from artists or gallery staff during the event. Such actions undermine the purpose of the event and disregard the efforts of the artists and organizers.
- Avoid Approaching Artists to Exhibit in Your Gallery/Space: It’s essential to refrain from approaching artists with the intention of enticing them to exhibit in your gallery, space, or event. This practice, commonly referred to as “poaching,” places the artist in an uncomfortable position. While it’s understandable to seek future opportunities or connections, doing so during an art event is inappropriate. Proper channels, such as contacting the artist’s agent or representative, should be utilized for such inquiries. Furthermore, soliciting artists directly undermines the efforts of the gallery and curator hosting the current exhibition. These individuals invest considerable time and effort in securing artists and curating exhibitions. Approaching artists during an exhibition demonstrates a lack of respect for their work and disregards the dedication involved in organizing the event. Respecting the established protocols and channels ensures a harmonious relationship between artists, galleries, and curators, fostering a positive environment within the art community.
- Do Not Attempt to negotiate a discount directly with the artist during an art gallery event. It is not only inappropriate but also undermines the value of their work. Artists invest significant time, effort, and creativity into their pieces, and requesting a discount undermines their livelihood and the integrity of their art. It’s important to respect the artist’s pricing and support their craft by engaging in fair transactions. Making backdoor deals not only disrespects the artist but also tarnishes the professionalism of the event and the reputation of the art community as a whole.
- Do Not Interrupt Conversations for Self-Promotion: Avoid interrupting conversations to promote yourself or your art. Respect the conversations happening around you and focus on engaging with the artwork and other attendees.
- Do Not Criticize Other Artists or Their Work: Resist the temptation to badmouth other artists or their work. Such behavior is divisive and disrespectful to the creative community as a whole.
- Do Not Engage in Self-Centered Conversations: Refrain from dominating conversations with discussions solely about yourself and your art. Show interest in others and foster meaningful exchanges that enrich the gallery experience for all attendees.
- Do Not Engage in Inappropriate Behavior: Avoid behaviors such as arriving/ becoming intoxicated, or making derogatory comments. Maintain respect for the space, the artwork, and your fellow attendees throughout the event.
By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to a positive and respectful environment where creativity can flourish. Remember, art gallery openings are not only opportunities to admire artwork but also occasions to engage with artists, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and celebrate the beauty of human expression. Let’s uphold the integrity of these spaces and ensure that everyone can enjoy the art in a welcoming and respectful atmosphere.