Expert: DJ Murphy - 10/5/2006

Question
Drawing is one of my main ambitions in life and I would like to take it further but I don not know how. Where do you start? Do you try and get a sponsor or take your art work to a gallery? If you can give me some advise I would be very grateful Amber  

Answer
Hello Amber,

Not knowing your background or your location....makes it somewhat more difficult to advise you.....but here goes.

Most art galleries do not like to take artists that don't have experience in "selling" their art work.  Galleries are in the business of making money....those that don't either close or have a benefactor that makes money in another venue.

Drawing is more akin to illustrating.  If you have had formal training in "drawing" then you might pursue the illustrator direction.  If you are drawing specific subjects [still life, nudes, portraits, etc] then you might want to put together a portfolio of your work [copies that can be put in an 8x11 plastic sheet binder] and try and make appointments with art galleries in your area.  Best to drop them a note...enclose a few copies of your work....and ask for an appointment.  I know I said galleries don't like to exhibit works of artists that haven't sold works....but some like to "find" emerging artists....like you.

Not sure what else to tell you....but it takes a lot of hard work and luck to become an artist that is successful [makes money to pay bills!].  Also check out websites artcalendar.com and galleryguide.com for other possibilities.

Good luck in your search and career.
dj murphy