Gallery Representation
I don’t deny it – I would love gallery representation. The right gallery of course. In true lonely hearts column style the list of qualities I look for in a gallery partnership are as follows:
1. A gallery that is pro-active with their artists – pushing them to continue to stretch themselves.
2. A gallery operating outside of market constraints and trends. Not stocking work just “because it sells”
3. A gallery that actively engages and interacts with the contemporary art world.
4. A gallery that explores collaborations with institutes and venues outside of its own gallery walls.
5. A gallery that is progresive and happy to take risks.
Finding this partnership has been a kind of Holy Grail in my mind. I’ve seen it as something that will be the important next step in my career. Talking to Danielle in my first mentoring session has not made me change my mind about the importance of the correct representation but she did make me consider the timing of it. She pointed out that representation can be restricting and that if my practice is currently in an exploratory phase it may be better to stay independent.
I think the idea of gallery representation brings security and a sense of validation however it is interesting to consider benefits of the alternative.
