Vernissage and Opportunities

One of the things I love about art is how it brings people together.  As an artist, you also meet lots of interesting people, namely other artists, especially when you are the one showing. A vernissage is a great opportunity. I met great individuals at my last show, many of them, emerging artists, like me.

Because it was part of our building’s open door event, we had to organize the vernissage and the show. The fun thing about this is you can then use this opportunity to your best advantage on all levels, which might not be the case in a gallery.

My studiomate is an expert of vernissages. She has got it down to an art. Here is her kit: a printed portfolio, business cards, a golden book, blank receipts, a smile and a quick little discussion about your artist statement.

The portfolio will show potential buyers the works of art which are not part of the show you are having a vernissage for. You will then have a chance, if they are willing, to set a later date to show them a particular piece if you don’t have it at hand. This is where the business cards comme in handy; instead of running around for a pen, you slip a card in their hand ( of course, you may hand them out to anyone who wants one also). If you do have the piece nearby, take it out. It might end up in a sale... and don’t be shy; timidity never sold a painting.

The golden book has a double purpose. First,  visitors can write down their impressions. Needless to say visitors who don’t like your work won’t bother. You are assured of having that little encouragement you sometimes need from strangers when you get doubtful, because it inevitably happens. Also, you may invite visitors to leave their email adresses for future newsletters. Politely asked, most people won’t be offended, and will politely decline if they are not interested. This is a crucial part of your network development; you absolutely need to get out of your circle to find potencial buyers, because your family and friends won’t be buying your art forever.  Only send emails to individuals who have given you permission. Make sure you mention in every newsletter you send that the recepient may unsuscribe from your sending list. Not only will you be better considered, it is also part of what internet users call ‘netiquette’ ( You will find many posts and references on the internet concerning this topic. I encourage you to read about this if you’re thinking about using the internet as a part of your marketing strategy) . If anyone asks to be removed from your list, please do so as promptly as possible.

Blank receipts have to be in your studio at all times. You never know when you will sell a piece, and you need to be able to produce a receipt, especially for larger pieces. Some buyers are investors; the receipt, as their proof of purchase, is very valuable to them.  Also have whatever legal papers you think you need: contracts, authenticity certificates... It really is up to you, but the more written material you have, th better it usually is, even though the receipt is really the only absolute necessity.

The list of works will help you keep track of what you sold, the dimensions, for how much, and when. This is basic data you really want to keep.

Your smile will say a lot about you to visitors. Potencial buyers like nice people, it’s no surprise. With your smile, you will get visitors interested in your artist statement when you start to describe what you do. In other words, you will be sharing your passion. I think this is the best part of all.

Oh, yeah, the new dress I got for the vernissage was a lot of fun too!