exhibitions & venues

Christie Marks oil and acrylic painting of a large pink and white lotus flower with dramatic, dripping rich colors like magenta, turquoise, and yellow in the water’s reflection

Use the attraction method for art venues before you make the ask (265)

So many artists reach out to venues too soon — before the relationship exists and before the venue has any reason to say yes.

Introducing the attraction method for building visibility with a space manager/director/curator long before you make an ask. It removes the awkwardness and allows you time to ensure a good fit. When the time comes to ask for a show, you’re not a stranger.

Use the attraction method for art venues before you make the ask (265) Read

Abstract acrylic painting by Gail Salzman of a combination of large geometric blocks and curved, organic elements in earth tones of olive green and ochre contrasted with softer tones of peaches and tans.

The artists who don’t wait to be chosen (264)

Waiting for gallery representation or other opportunities to cross your path is a common theme I see among artists, but it’s not a good strategy.

In this episode, I make the case for taking control of where and how your work is seen, with real examples of artists who showed up in unexpected places and made it work. If you’ve been cycling through juried shows or hoping a gallery will find you, this one is worth your time.

The artists who don’t wait to be chosen (264) Read

Jason Ostro and Elena Jacobson

What galleries want: preparing yourself and your art (226)

This episode offers a candid look at how LA’s Gabba Gallery operates and what artists should know before submitting their work. Learn what signals professionalism, how first impressions are formed, and why clear communication matters.

You’ll hear about the inner workings of artist selection, the importance of preparation, and what strengthens long-term relationships between artists and galleries—shared from the perspective of those managing shows, reviewing submissions, and running the business every day.

What galleries want: preparing yourself and your art (226) Read

View of a rolling wood sculpture installation on the floor inside a white gallery space

Putting artists first in curatorial projects with Melissa Messina (136)

Melissa shares how she became an independent curator after starting out as an artist. She reveals how to find independent curators, what she looks for in a studio visit, and the mistakes she sees artists making. Above all, she emphasizes the importance of your network.

We discussed the types of institutions she works with, how projects are funded, and the rhythm of their realization.

Putting artists first in curatorial projects with Melissa Messina (136) Read

Metro State Gallery - Denver

What to include in an art exhibition proposal

Not every idea you have for an exhibition warrants a full-blown proposal. There are some, especially alternative, venues where you could book a show with an email or brief conversation.

Similarly, exhibition proposals are inappropriate for commercial galleries and many spaces with curators. Still, you need to know how to write one when the goal is to get your art in front of more people. Here’s an easy outline for you to follow.

What to include in an art exhibition proposal Read

Who’s who in the art museum

If it’s on your bucket list to schedule a museum exhibition, volunteer or work at a museum, or see your art in a museum collection, you will benefit if you understand how a museum administration is structured.

While I haven’t been part of the museum world since 2001, I am confident that what I share below can still be helpful to you. Keep in mind, however, that not all museums operate the same way,

Who’s who in the art museum Read

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