Art Exhibitions: Your Quick Guide to Selling, Pricing and Picking the Best Shows

Feeling overwhelmed by the world of art shows? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a seasoned painter, the right exhibition can boost sales, grow your network and sharpen your brand. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice on the kinds of exhibitions out there, how to price your pieces, and what steps actually move a buyer from ‘nice picture’ to ‘I’m buying’.

Types of Exhibitions – Solo, Group and Two‑Artist Shows

First, know what you’re signing up for. A solo show puts all eyes on you – great for deep storytelling, but you carry the whole promotional load. Group exhibitions share the spotlight; they attract a broader audience and lower costs, but you compete for attention. The two‑artist format blends both worlds: it creates a dialogue between two styles, draws media interest and often doubles foot traffic without doubling effort.

How to Turn an Exhibition into Sales

Step one is selection. Pick shows that match your style and price range – a high‑end gallery won’t be the right fit for budget prints. Step two is preparation: print clear price tags, offer easy payment options, and have a short artist statement ready. Step three is interaction – greet visitors, answer questions, and ask for feedback. A genuine conversation can turn a curious passerby into a buyer.

Pricing is the next hurdle. Start by adding your material costs, studio time and a modest profit margin. Then research comparable works in the same venue; galleries usually take a 40‑50% commission, so factor that in. If you’re unsure, test a low‑risk price in a group show first. You’ll see how the market reacts without risking a big loss.

Don’t forget the follow‑up. Collect email addresses (with permission) and send a thank‑you note after the show. Offer a small discount for a future purchase or invite them to your next online showcase. A quick follow‑up often seals the deal that didn’t close on the opening night.

Online visibility works hand‑in‑hand with physical shows. Post high‑resolution images of your booth, tag the venue, and use hashtags like #ArtExhibition and #GalleryShow. Most galleries share artists’ posts on their own feeds, extending your reach to their followers. A strong digital footprint can turn a local visitor into an international collector.

If you’re new to the gallery scene, aim for emerging‑artist programs. These often have lower entry fees and are looking for fresh talent. Build a solid portfolio – include only your strongest pieces, a concise bio, and a clear statement of what you want to achieve. A well‑curated portfolio is more persuasive than a long list of works.

Finally, know where to exhibit. Traditional galleries, art fairs, pop‑up spaces and virtual exhibitions each have pros and cons. Galleries bring credibility, fairs offer volume traffic, pop‑ups give flexibility, and virtual shows cut travel costs. Map out a mix that fits your budget and goals, then rotate through them over the year.

Remember, the best exhibition strategy isn’t about chasing every opportunity. It’s about choosing shows that align with your art, pricing wisely, and engaging visitors authentically. Follow these steps, and you’ll see more sales, stronger relationships, and a clearer path to a thriving art career.