Top Tips for artists seeking gallery representation by Nick Bentley
Having led a varied career including air traffic control, event management, catering and sales, in recent years Nick has concentrated on promoting up-and-coming artists along with those more established.
His years of experience prior have helped him navigate the pitfalls of the art world and the successes are building!
Nick launched his gallery Bils & Rye in 2013, a spur-of-the-moment decision that has led to a booming gallery business that has expanded and moved several times over the years, finally settling in Harrogate.
Nick shares is insights with us, giving his top tips for artists seeking gallery representation - in no particular order…
Price your work correctly from day 1 and value your time
Seek out a gallery that is a good fit for your artwork. One that shows similar work but not the same.
Visit as a ‘customer’ in the first instance, to get a feel for how the gallery operates. How they interact with clients and how they “sell” the art.
When you have settled on the right gallery fit for you - make your approach personal. Find out who to approach and if you can establish a persons name use it - either in an email or on the telephone
Remain humble. Never think you are better than anyone else.
Be gallery ready. Ensure you have a body of work - at least 5 pieces - ready to show
Ensure the body of work you show to the gallery is coherent and bares your fingerprint - your unique style - throughout.
Know your value and be open to discussions around money and pricing.
Don’t take the No’s personally.
If you would like to learn more about Nick please visit his Linkedin
If you would like to talk to nick please email him at nick@bilsandrye.com
