Nothing’s overly simple about showing work in exhibitions for an artist, unless an artist is in a position to donate the work. And then there's not much in the way of tax credit. For example, the feds currently accept only cost of materials.
But back to the process: First an artist has to investigate to find suitable shows for their work. One such venue is to study Art Opportunities Monthly, a vetted listing of hundreds/thousands of opportunities. Each show typically has a theme the curators want to highlight.
Then an artist has to apply, sometimes paying a fee (usually around $35), submit digital images (usually), wait (usually 3-6 weeks) to hear whether the work is acceptable for that particular theme, then, if accepted, get any 2D piece(s) framed ($$). Many shows then take a percentage of the sale price if the work is sold.
Plus there are mandates that differ from show to show, quite outrageously one may think. For example, a recent show sent a checklist of 18 items that participating artists need to address; another has 6 full pages of instructions to follow. And those are local shows. It’s a wonder.
But back to the process: First an artist has to investigate to find suitable shows for their work. One such venue is to study Art Opportunities Monthly, a vetted listing of hundreds/thousands of opportunities. Each show typically has a theme the curators want to highlight.
Then an artist has to apply, sometimes paying a fee (usually around $35), submit digital images (usually), wait (usually 3-6 weeks) to hear whether the work is acceptable for that particular theme, then, if accepted, get any 2D piece(s) framed ($$). Many shows then take a percentage of the sale price if the work is sold.
Plus there are mandates that differ from show to show, quite outrageously one may think. For example, a recent show sent a checklist of 18 items that participating artists need to address; another has 6 full pages of instructions to follow. And those are local shows. It’s a wonder.