So you’ve never been to a Gallery Opening before?
In the lead up to my solo show opening in Edmonton, I had a bunch of people ask me about the artistic cultural tradition of art gallery openings, and what would be expected of them as an attendee. I understand that art spaces can be intimidating. I think it comes from mutual exclusion… that artists, typically having little financial capital, have over-leveraged cultural capital, to that point that lots of people don’t feel welcome. As an artist, I’ve observed that galleries are one of the few places you can go, where you are not expected to spend any money (also, famously: libraries). Hopefully this guide will help you feel more comfortable popping into a gallery near you, either during an opening or regular hours. Art is for everyone.
Plan your visit:
What to wear:
You want to first and foremost dress as yourself. People will wear very fancy dresses, and others will sport ratty jeans and a worn t-shirt. If you go as yourself, you should never feel over- or under-dressed. That said, if you have an item of clothing that you’ve been trying to wear but you feel like you never have the right occasion for… this is it! Be a little daring. Also, it’s almost always a standing event, often on concrete floors, so wear shoes that will get you through that.
When to arrive:
If you’re a person who feels overwhelmed in a crowd, your best bet is to come the minute the show opens and stay for half an hour. OR, visit the show on a different day, not the opening.
If being the first person to arrive gives you social anxiety, aim for half an hour after the start time.
If you’re having a good time, stay til you get kicked out.
If you’re feeling awkward, give it half an hour and feel free to go! There is no social faux pas in leaving early.
Who to bring with you:
Someone you think will enjoy it!
You can definitely go alone; it all depends on your social comfort.
When you arrive:
Grab a drink or a snack.
Most openings have free snacks, think: cheese, crackers, fruit, cookies, that kind of thing. Some have free beverages, and some have a cash bar (everyone accepts tap these days). I try to have one at a time. Finger foods are hard to eat off a little plate while you’re also holding a glass.
Have a look at the art.
How does it make you feel?
If you like it, why?
If you hate it, why? You’re allowed to not like it! Art is personal, and it shouldn’t resonate with everybody. Try to keep your negative opinions for the drive/walk home. You never know when you’re standing next to the artist’s mom.
A game you can play with a friend: Guess which artwork (in the whole show, or in a group on the wall) is their favourite, and have them guess yours. How well do you know their visual taste?
You can usually take photos in an art show, but be respectful of everyone else’s experience. Flash off.
If you know the artist…
Say hi! Make sure to tell them what a good job they did, and what your favourite part is. If you don’t have a favourite part, congratulate them on their hard work and on having a show (it’s a big deal). Keep in mind that this is their night, and they’re kind of like the bride at a wedding; they’re trying to connect with everybody.
If you don’t know the artist…
…and you have a genuine compliment for them, please give it! Artists thrive on compliments. If you know the artist but kind of tangentially, remind them who you are and how you know them. They’re 100% overwhelmed.
Before you leave:
Check for a sign-in book and leave a note! If you want updates from the artist or gallery, you can also leave your email.
All photos taken by Dana Martin during the Romantic Tensions Opening at dhARTworld.
