Selecting a Gallery to Exhibit your Art.

Every artist at some point in their career must decide if, how and where to exhibit their work. The best advice I was ever given from another artist about selecting a gallery was to visit the gallery you are interested in to determine first hand if you would like to show there.
First, look at the work that is exhibited there; is your work of the same genre? If your work is portraits and the gallery features pastorals it is not likely to be a good match for you. However, be sure to talk to the gallery owner or the docent and ask about other shows. Perhaps, they show a diverse genre.
Second, what is the overall appearance of the gallery, is it adequate to exhibit your art? If the gallery is small and your work is monumental keep looking. Also, if you work in miniature and the gallery is the size of a gymnasium it would only be lost in this venue.
Finally and most importantly: Does the gallery meet your standards? Only you can make that determination. What is the mission of the gallery - to sell work; produce exhibits for the community; provide a place for artists and patrons to meet, share their work, and experiences. Always remember that refusal into a gallery does not mean that your art is not good, if simply may not match the gallery’s objective.
When you have made the decision to approach a gallery owner about showing your work, first, set up an appointment then be prepared. Have quality photographs of your work or a small portfolio on hand, along with a resume and an artist statement. You should also have all this information on a CD that you can leave at the gallery. When your work is accepted by the gallery the CD will make publicity easier and more accurate. If information for a press release does not have to be retyped there are fewer chances for mistakes. A gallery’s contract should make clear what input is expected from the artist and what services the gallery offers. Contracts are not usually negotiated, but be sure to ask questions especially if you have misgivings about showing there.
REMEMBER -The galley owner is there to do the best possible job to exhibit your ART.