Exhibiting Your Artwork
Exhibiting your work can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking prospect, with so many questions running through your head; How do I get my work into an exhibition? Do I have to pay to exhibit my work? Where should I exhibit? This toolkit provides an overview of some considerations to get you thinking about how to approach this aspect of creative practice.
Not sure where to start? View our What’s On and Opportunities page to get an insight into local exhibition spaces and venues. For further guidance, you are welcome to call Guildhouse on (08) 8410 1822.
Depending on an artist’s practice, experience, and the context in which they wish to frame their work, considering the space where one exhibits is crucial. No exhibition spaces are entirely alike, and understanding how your work lends itself to a gallery is important. For example, an Artist Run Initiative (ARI) and a commercial gallery are two different spaces that foster divergent contexts and audiences.
Keep in mind that every gallery has different timelines and modes of operation. Whilst some invite exhibition proposals with yearly callouts, others curate or commission artists directly. Exhibitions are often planned at least a year in advance, so forward thinking is key on the artist’s part.
Artist fees and exhibition fees will also influence whether exhibiting in a particular space is financially viable. Practices can vary greatly; some galleries pay artists to exhibit, others do not, and some require that artists pay to exhibit. Researching or inquiring about fees will ensure you’re making an informed decision when engaging with an exhibition space.
As approaching galleries can often seem daunting or inaccessible, DIY events and exhibitions are a great chance to gain experience and connect with the arts ecology. Collectivising with your creative peers and organising group shows offers a great entry point and provides opportunity to learn and collaborate. The South Australian Living Artists (SALA) Festival offers opportunities to exhibit work and celebrate the state’s creative landscape. As Australia’s largest visual arts festival, diverse artistic practice is showcased, with incredible reach among a variety of venues and spaces. Subscribe to SALA’s mailing list to stay across registration deadlines.
Whilst exhibiting can be exciting, it is important to remain cognisant of artists’ rights and the responsibilities of galleries. NAVA’s Code of Practice provides excellent guidelines on best practice.
For guidance on documenting your work, click here.
Guildhouse Community and Accredited members are eligible for Advice Bank sessions. Discuss a range of topics with Guildhouse’s experienced art professionals, including; grant funding applications, professional documentation, marketing, communications, artist opportunities and more. Contact us for more information.