Putting on your own show.

Like most artists, I am always looking for a place to show my work.  I have been fortunate to be a member of the Essex Art League and the Northern Vermont Artist Association, and they have several group shows a year.  But nothing is quite like a solo show of your own work.

A few years ago, I received a copy of "Taking the Leap", Building a Career as a visual artist by Cay Lang.  This book was a fantastic read, but the chapter on putting on your own exhibitions was the most helpful.

Since 2009, I have put on one solo show a year by securing the Northgate Community Hall for a one day show, held on a Sunday.  I print up postcards, invite all my friends, have each of them bring someone, and hang 25-30 pieces of my art for a one day show with appetizers.  Each show introduces my work to new people, and each show I have averaged 9-12 paintings sold.

This years show was even better with 16 sold!

So if you are an artist looking to show your work, don't sit around waiting to be discovered, take matters into your own hands, rent a venue and put on a show!  It is worth the effort.