Expert: DJ Murphy - 9/14/2000

Question
I`ve been working as an art dealer for almost two years now, but the economic situation in my country is pretty bad right now (El Salvador, Central America), and for the last 8 months many galleries had to close. I represent 2 very good  
painters and Iīm pretty worried about them because I havenīt been able to sell, i want to get them exhibitions abroad but I donīt know how to start because i have no contact with galleries, could you please give me some advice. These painters are very good and very known here, and i donīt know what to do, I would be extreamely grateful for any kind of help you could give me, Iīm new in the business, I`m 21 and really need help because this is my only passion in life and we are living hard times, thanks.

Answer
Hello Rafael,

First check with your customs people and see if sending art work out of your country poses any problems....and also see if art work is returned by a gallery in the U.S., if there is any problems receiving it back in El Salvador.

There is a magazine published by Art Now of Clinton, NJ which lists gallery's in the U.S.  They also have an International Edition which lists mostly European galleries.   In addition they publish a listing of galleries which have internet sites.  The web address for Art Now is www. galleryguideonline.com  [the name of their publications:  "Gallery Guide"...and the internet guide is called "Internet Art Directory"]

I would suggest you send email to those galleries listed...perhaps with a scanned image of one or two of the art works of the artists you represent.  Also, if any indicate interest they might want slides of the artists works...sent with a bio and artist statement...along with a
stamped, self addressed, envelope [called s.a.s.e. in the U.S.]

If you have photo's of the artists works...and price ranges...you can send them to my gallery: galleryONEmain, P.O.Box One, High Bridge, NJ 08829.

Good luck.

dennis j. murphy