How I Exhibited in Red Dot Miami During Art Basel
I have exhibited in local galleries but never anything on a grand scale close to Art Week Miami. Essentially, it’s multiple art expos happening at different locations across the span of one week. Artists from all over the country display their art to people in various industries- from interior designers and decorators, to hospitality, to art collectors.
How did I get into the show?
There’s two ways- the first way is participate on your own if you have your own gallery. Renting a booth as a gallery within the exhibit can begin at $1,895 and varies depending on the fair and booth size. Other cost considerations include insurace, transporting show pieces, and travel and lodging if coming from out of town.
If you don’t have your own gallery start prepping to be in local shows (this will give you experience, plus networking opportunities to meet gallery owners who participate in events and are looking to add artists to their portfolio). Look for open art contests and enter submissions, some may have a fee to apply while others may be free. Research the gallery and learn about the artists they represent. Does your work mesh with the other artists? A lot of galleries attending major art fairs offer the option of renting wall space within their booth. This is an option if want to attend but don’t own your own affiliated gallery. Budget for fees accordingly. It can still be expensive to rent wall space. I rented wall space to hang a 22”x24” framed piece for $800. The benefit of showing through a gallery is someone will be at the expo the entire time representing you.
You’re accepted, now what?
You’ve done all the prep work and you’ve been selected to exhibit at Red Dot. I’m a photographer and I display my photographs on metal. There’s an extra step of including printing times. If you’re a painter or sculptor, plan time to have your pieces finished in time. The prints are produced and shipped from a printer in California, I’m in New York and the show was in Florida. Coordinate schedules and deadlines with the printer. It’s important to be precise with location and dates. There are many moving parts to this process and your piece(s) is one of thousands being shipped to the expo’s location. Last year’s event began the week immediately following Black Friday. Be aware of print delays, production times, and shipping policies. You might find it beneficial to ship priority to ensure packages arrive on time. Add reminders to track packages if you plan on shipping your pieces. If you plan on attending the event in person it might be easier to bring the pieces in yourself. Coordinate available times and drop-off locations. If you are flying make sure your piece, if checked, is safely packaged and clearly labeled fragile.
Market yourself at the show.
How do you plan to market yourself? If permitted, write an artist bio and statement and have them printed as flyers. Detail what the piece is and how you selected to exhibit the subject. Can you have business cards or flyers visible at the booth? How big is the flyer? Review proofs for spelling and grammar mistakes. Does your retail price include the gallery percentage and total cost of goods? Again, make sure everything everything is printed and shipped in time for opening day.
Attending the Show
If you can, I recommend attending the expo. If you are from out of town, book hotel and flights early. Usually hotels in the area will have deals with Redwood for attendees. Don’t forget about your pass for entry into the show! Sometimes galleries will receive a certain amount of free passes which can be distributed to their artists. Network, walk around the show, connect with other artists and galleries. Stand at the booth you are showing, it’s real time feedback to listen to what potential buyers are saying about your artwork. Also, you can take potential clients’ contact information and follow up after the show. Lastly, enjoy the moment! You made it- whether or not your piece sells- it’s still quite a feat to be at Art Miami and you should be proud!
My piece, Perched, showcased last year at Red Dot Art Miami via NYC4PA.
