One of the questions that I think all artists ask themselves and anyone who will listen is “How do I get my work out in the world?”  I have not the answer my friends, but I have tried some things over the years. 

The why I want my work to be seen is an easy answer: I need it. I can say all day long that I get great joy and satisfaction from the making of my work, and I do. But I need more, I think we all do. I need the validation that comes from other people seeing what I make, even better if I hear from them, that is a bonus. So when I think about ways to get the work out, I consider: who will see it, will I get to talk with them, and sometimes, will someone collect the work. 

I have a short list of what has worked for me. I would love to hear from y’all what you think about showing work: do you need it? What works? Do you need the feedback and validation?

• The Hand Magazine - My current favorite. Published quarterly by Adam Finkelston, Owner, Publisher, Co-Editor & James Meara Co-Editor, Lead Designer.  By subscribing to the magazine, you are entitled to submit 5 images of your work for each edition. Subscribing does not mean your work will be published, but it will be considered. I am always thrilled to see the wide range of work in each issue. It is honest, fresh, and sometimes funky work, I love it.  On the occasion that I turn the page and see my work, I feel good.  Really good, it is the kind of validation I need knowing so many other people will see my work. I recommend you all subscribe and submit. You will not regret it, I promise.
• Gallery calls for work - There is no shortage of this kind of opportunity. I am sure you all know of it. It is a kind of pay-to-play solution many galleries use to create exhibitions.  I have done these many times over the years, less so these days. I stopped mostly because of the cost and effort.  You pay to submit. If selected, you: frame and ship or deliver the work. If it sells, you get part of the money. If not, you pay to ship it home. There are variations to this theme, and yes, your work is seen in the group show, and going to the opening feels very good. 
• Indoor/outdoor art shows - These can be lots of work but a wonderful way for folks to see your work and to have conversations with them. I recently participated in a very well-organized event like this here in Portland.  It is once a year and is called The Gathering of the Guilds.  Over 3 days, 13,000 art-loving people came through, and collectively, the artists sold $ 970,000 worth of art. It was truly amazing. I recommend choosing well-organized events and keeping in mind the display needs required. 
• Host a gathering of local artists to share work - This is something I have done in my home for the last 15 or more years. It feels good and it works well for having meaningful conversations about our work and lives as artists. Artists have been having these salons forever. Consider hosting one for people in your community. 
• Social media - I think you know the complications. It can work well and does sometimes.  For me, I usually end up feeling worse about myself and my work rather than better. 

Please join the conversation, I would love to hear from you.

Be well,

Ray