Expert: DJ Murphy - 5/26/2003

Question
Dear dj murphy,

I have just been invited to exhibit at two galleries in North America.  I wonder, as it'll be my debut this summer at Galeri Gora, Montreal, what I should prepare.  

Do I need to have on hand artist's conditions stating that I should have the right to know who the painting(s) are sold to and also retain certain rights, such as photographing the art or giving permission for buyer to exhibit the art, etc.?

Basically, I wonder if you can tell me what to look for, what are no-no's and what I should ask for.  And lastly, should I get an agent/consultant to represent my art?  What are the costs involved?  Do you recommend this for emerging artists or only established artists?

Thank you very much for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely yours,
Nana Chen
http://www.msnusers.com/NanaChen

Answer
Congratulations on your first exhibit.  You asked a number of questions........which I will attempt to answer in brief!

The gallery should provide you with an "inventory form" which asks the name of the work...the size...media..and price.  If they don't give this to you.... make your own....and have them sign a copy for your records.

You don't need an agent.

Most galleries do a 50/50% split on sales.  This particular gallery should provide you with guidance on pricing your works.  Word of advice..price them to sell....you can always raise prices on other works later...when you have become marketable.

Make sure you get something in writing about when you get paid.  Most galleries pay at the end of each month or at the end of the show [if the show has a reasonable time limit...say two or three months].

You can ask the gallery to provide you with the names and addresses of who bought your works. Once someone purchases art work from a gallery...they can do whatever they want with the works........except reproduce the image.  If you are concerned you can copywrite the works in the U.S. [write the U.S. Copywrite Office [probably on the internet] Also..make sure you have photo's of your works before you give them to the gallery.  Buy a cheap camera...and just shoot regular photo's.  Ask the gallery about insurance for your works...both in transit...and when they are in their possession.  If they don't have insurance...you should know this......NEVER ship any art work without getting insurance.

good luck!

dj murphy