If you are just new to collecting artworks, the whole process may be confusing to you. Someone might recommend that you visit galleries or go to an art reception. But how do you proceed with that without making a spectacle of yourself?
Listed here are some helpful tips that will make your presence on visits to opening receptions of an art gallery appropriate to the occasion.
Dress the part
No, you do not have to come dressed in a suit or a gown. However, do avoid wearing something far from your usual get-up. This will allow you to feel comfortable and confident as you mingle with other art lovers and artists.
Introduce yourself to others
If the artist is around, muster some courage and introduce yourself. Do not be afraid if you do not know about technical art matters or that you will fumble with the conversation. Remember, artists are people, too, and have lives outside of their craft. Furthermore, engaging in conversations with the artists will provide you with a deeper insight about their works.
After introducing yourself to the artist, introduce yourself and mingle with the curator, staff and other guests. Most likely, you will encounter people who share your interests and these other art lovers can give you invaluable advice when it comes to collecting.
However, do remember to keep your conversations with the artist and the curators short as they may be other people who want to talk to them.
Purchase works that appeal to you
Move around the gallery and enjoy the artworks on display. Make sure that you do not linger for too long at one artwork. Remember that there are other people who wish to look at the works on being presented.
Although it is not mandatory for guests to buy pieces on exhibit, if you do find artworks that appeal to you and are within your budget, consider buying these.
Enjoy the refreshments
During the opening refreshments, guests will be served wine and hors d'oeuvres. Do not be shy and sample the fare for the night. But on the other end of the extreme, do not think of these refreshments as a buffet or free-for-all. Practise moderation, especially in consuming alcoholic drinks.
Enjoy the art and the people
Sure, attending an opening art reception can be a learning opportunity for new art collectors. That, however, does not mean that you should act and feel uptight. At the end of the day, the event is a celebration of the artist and his works and you should partake in that.