Every year, thousands of artists leave art school or emerge from their studios wondering: How do I get my work into a gallery? It’s one of the most common questions in the art world and one that comes with a lot of misconception, pressure, and mystery.
The truth is that securing gallery representation is not just about talent. It’s about fit, consistency, professionalism, and being strategic about where you aim to build your career.
As a gallery with a deliberately small roster—only around 20 painters, most of whom are regional—our perspective may surprise you. But it might also help you find the right path forward.
I'll add a little disclaimer here that this formula is not for everyone, it's just what seems to work for us and our artists. If you're a big gallery that is thriving and your artists are, then no judgement from me.
Why Gallery Roster Size Matters More Than You Think
At our gallery, we keep a small stable of artists on purpose. With only about 20 painters, we can:
-
Give artists regular exhibition opportunities—ideally a solo show every other year
-
Help them grow a loyal collector base
-
Ensure artists aren’t competing with each other in the same space or with the same clientele
Many artists don’t realize this, but being one of 100+ artists in a gallery’s roster often means your work won’t get the attention, marketing, or collector support you deserve. A long roster looks glamorous, but it often leaves artists starving for attention within their own gallery. We have a huge gallery, about 6,000 sq feet and luckily we get to have at least a painting from each one of our artists on the wall at all times.
Big vs. Smaller Art Markets: Two Very Different Realities
Many artists dream of being represented by a New York or Miami gallery—and yes, that world can be exciting. But here's the reality:
In major cities:
-
Galleries bring in fresh faces constantly—especially after art school graduation season. I (who eat and breath art) sometimes can't keep up with my favorite galleries because they have too many new painters, most of who are great artist
-
They already have their “heavy hitters” who pay the bills, so right off the bat you are not their favorite
-
New artists may get a show or two, but many become a flash in the pan
-
Turnover is high, and careers can burn out quickly
Meanwhile, in small, to mid-sized art markets, like ours—you’ll find something different: sustainability.
In smaller cities:
-
Galleries invest deeply in a small number of artists
-
You can build a career, not a moment
-
Collectors become part of your story long-term
-
Your exhibitions aren’t overshadowed by 50 others opening the same night
If your goal is longevity, connection, and a real collector base, smaller markets are often where artists truly thrive. However, and I hate talking about money, but smaller markets often won't lead to million dollar art sales and the money that goes with art fame (sorry). I’d gladly trade higher income for a true sense of community and purpose, though I understand that’s not what everyone is seeking.
Tips for Getting Your Work Into a Gallery (The Realistic Way)
Here’s what we—and most galleries—are truly looking for:
1. Build a Cohesive Body of Work
A gallery needs to understand your artistic voice. Show consistency—not repetition—but a recognizable language. I often describe an artist's "handwriting" as their most important quality. It's less about what you paint but about how you paint.
2. Develop a Local Presence First
Before you aim for a gallery two time zones away, show that you’re invested in your region. Local press, community shows, or studio visits help establish credibility. Just show up and be part of things.
3. Be Professional and Prepared
Have the fundamentals ready and don't walk in on a busy day but instead email:
-
A well-curated website
-
Clear and realistic pricing
-
Strong photography of your work
-
A short, thoughtful artist bio is VERY important. Galleries care less about a fifty page CV and much more about learning WHY you paint what you paint. I immediately think of Nathan Durfee as I say this. He has both the how and what. If you were to put a 100 pop surrealist works in front of me I would immediately know which was his.
Being easy to work with is one of the most underrated keys to getting represented. We often say and I think I have been quoted a million times that "we pick-up artists based on character first and artwork second." This is true.
4. Research Galleries That Truly Fit You
Don’t shotgun-email every gallery in the country. Look for ones whose vibe, medium focus, and collector base align with your work.
5. Understand That It’s a Relationship
Representation is a partnership.
We’re not just selling work—we’re building a career with the artist. Compatibility, trust, and shared vision matter.
The Bottom Line: Seek a Gallery That Will Grow With You
The right gallery isn’t always the most famous one—it’s the one committed to your long-term success. If you are just starting out maybe find a gallery that just opened it's doors as well. A gallery that keeps its roster small, lets an artist explore their craft, really supports artists, and lets them shine individually is worth a lot. At least I think so.
Look for a gallery that wants you to have a 20-year career—not a one-season headline.
