Fresh Rx.3 with Kesha Bruce

Solutions to Your Creative Dilemmas

The gallery that represents me doesn't show or sell much of my work. Should I look for a new space? 

A sculptor, Montreal

Galleries have a tough job. They generally represent a large group of artists in an already very crowded market place. And in this “new economy,” their work isn’t getting any easier. So, before you jump ship, why not have a sit down with your gallery’s director and discuss the problem? Try to leave emotion out of the equation and figure out a better way to market “the product.” After all, the Artist/Gallery relationship is a business arrangement, pure and simple. Why not find out if there is a way that the two of you could work together to increase your profit? That’s what business partners do.

If, at the end of the day, the gallery doesn’t seem enthusiastic about trying new tactics, or they don’t take your work or your concerns seriously, then by all means consider moving your work to another gallery. Sometimes a gallery’s focus changes, the artist’s work changes, or the gallery’s audience and collector base changes. No one is at fault. It’s just the natural evolution of things. There’s no reason you can’t end a professional relationship with a gallery on good terms and make a positive move to show your work in a new setting.

Note: For a gallerist's view on the subject, consider reading this blog by Ed Winkleman, owner, director of Winkleman Gallery, New York. He offers advice to artists seeking and changing galleries.

Send me your questions. I'm here to help! freshartinternational@gmail.com
Kesha Bruce