2/22/07 New Gallery
I delivered my canvas work this week in Kalamazoo to Amy Zane's Housewear, www.shophousewear.com. They took 3 canvas pieces, (12" X 22") pieces and a framed, hand colored, black and white infrared photograph.
I observed that Amy and her gallery manager, Dianadra preferred the unusual shaped canvas, both horizontal and vertical. I can't blame them as I have been working in this format ever since I discovered them. This shape sings!
This gallery, located on the downtown Kalamazoo Mall, is one of two galleries owned by artist/entrepreneaur Amy Zane. (Amy is a jeweler who once had her work in my gallery!) Amy seems to be a rising star in the downtown retail community AND she definitely knows how to get publicity!
Best of all is her great downtown location (a streetside shop with large windows), a website, she advertises frequently in the local papers, distributes 4-color postcards and makes a recognizable style of jewlery (that I see on the Channel three news women.) These are the main reasons why I selected her gallery over other Kalamazoo consignment choices out there.
My goal for this experience is 1) Continued Kalamazoo exposure 2) Continues sales (hopefully from contacts who knew me from my old life.)
I must admit that I am surprised that she only accepts work for a four month period though. Intellectually, I realize this is to keep fresh work continually in the gallery. Having owned a gallery, I also know that it often takes longer than that to make a sale for a high end, 2 dimensional wall piece. Well, we shall see.
Next I need to forward jpegs and info. to be included on her website. My next task for today!
Recommended Strategies for Contacting a Gallery About Consignment:
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Visit the galleries web site initially
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Visit the gallery in person to see if the fit of your art is right for the venue
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Call the gallery owner (or e-mail) to set an appointment
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Create an inventory sheet of your artwork
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Create a biography and an "Artist Statement" and offer to send jpegs of your artwork for the galleries website
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Follow-up on a monthy basis
