Why are art openings so awkward?
Some ideas on how to attend solo
I hate going to art openings solo. Despite knowing a good number of people in the art world in multiple cities, I still dread attending events where a) I don't know anyone and stand alone, or b) I know people but don't know what to say.
I also believe that openings are an important aspect of the art world. It’s important to go to show your support for an artist and a gallery program. In doing so, you cultivate community. For artists seeking gallery representation, attending gallery events is a simple way to establish meaningful connections in the art world.
Tip: Art openings are free and open to the public. You don’t need permission to attend.
Artists are often advised not to cold email galleries with their portfolio because it’s rarely, if ever, effective. So here’s a silly analogy: An artist goes up to a gallery director while they’re riding the train and thrusts their portfolio into their hands and runs away. Or: You live next to a gallerist and chat a couple of times a month. When they’re on vacation, you offer to water their plants. You swap advice on the best restaurants in town. After a year of knowing each other, you invite the gallery owner over to your studio to see your art.
Of course, the second scenario is much more effective. Going to openings and supporting a gallery in the work they’re doing—sharing exhibitions on Instagram, bringing friends into the gallery, attending openings, etc—is how you become the neighbour in this situation.
Previously on Artist Relations:
If you’re going to cold email a gallery, make it effective:
While you’re at it, make sure you have an updated CV:
Which leads us to the real question: How to go to an opening without feeling awkward?
If you’re there to meet new people in the art world, it might actually be easier to implement some of these tips if you go solo (or, if you go with a friend, you don’t stick together the entire time). It’s a bit easier to approach people when you’re alone.