Over the past few years I have had the pleasure of working in a number of galleries (including here at Moosewalk Studios and Gallery) and have come to realize that a great number of people harbor fears of visiting a gallery. Gallery owners and their employees do not bite!
Let me dispel a few myths about galleries:
- “I don’t intend to buy anything”: While gallery owners always appreciate a sale, one does not have to make a purchase to visit a gallery. The gallery is there to show art and your visit is always welcome.
- “I don’t understand art or know what is good”: OK, you don’ have to. You also don’t have to like everything you see. That is why galleries generally show a variety of work. As for not understanding – just ask (see the following).
- “I am afraid of asking a stupid question”: When you don’t know something there are no stupid questions. Attendants working in galleries love to talk about the art they are showing. The more questions you ask the more you are appreciated.
- “I may not like anything or only a few pieces of work”: Politely, let the gallery know. You don’t have to worry about hurting the feelings of the gallery attendants or owners by telling them your reaction to the work on display. Your comments help the gallery determine what is popular and what type of work people respond to. This helps with the decision on what to show in the gallery.
What I am trying to do is to encourage you to visit as many galleries as you can. You might surprise yourself with the amount of pleasure it can bring you. And don’t forget to thank the gallery people when you leave!
Special hours for Moosewalk: Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13 – noon to 5:00 PM. Closed Sunday, July 14.
Don’t miss the 8th Annal Green Mountain Watercolor Exhibition here in the Mad River Valley. 96 outstanding paintings from across the United States. Thursday through Sunday – noon to 9:00 PM. Route 100 in Waitsfield.
SOFT SUMMER DAY – 10″ x 14″ – watercolor by Gary
