Understanding the Difference Between Contemporary African Art and African Contemporary Art

As previously stated, the various art galleries serve different institutional goals and needs. Even artist selection is an important component of any art gallery when determining which artists will fit into the existing operational schema. Many people who are unfamiliar with the concept of an art gallery may simply accept it on its face.

Customer Ready?

Most people believe that once they sign up with an art gallery, they will automatically adopt a group of customers eager to purchase their work and make a profit. Nothing could be further from the truth. While most galleries have a sort of regular customer base, it is not guaranteed that the existing client base will purchase the work.

The art gallery must convince the client that the artwork is substantial and appropriate for a specific genre of collection.

Lady admiring artwork in an art gallery

Collaboration is Key

Have you ever thought that all you needed to do was create the art and drop it off at your gallery? Incorrect! When it comes to having your work displayed in an art gallery, collaboration is key. To participate in exhibitions and provide artwork and conceptual information for dissemination, most galleries require ongoing participation from the artist. The art gallery is only a middleman in the process of launching an artist’s career.

Some galleries will enter into an agreement with their preferred artist to specify the terms of the consignment, including what is and is not expected of the artist.

Living Artists Emporium Art Gallery located in Johannesburg

Artist Support

Galleries provide enormous help and support to artists. This support can take many forms, including administrative assistance, publicity, photography, reputation management, shipping, and customer relations. Furthermore, art galleries can assist artists in securing a feature in a major art museum, propelling the artist’s work into a new spotlight and audience.

Art Showcase at Living Artists Emporium, Johannesburg

Funding and Commission

How do art galleries make a living? The answer is simple: funding and commission. Because of the many costs involved in running an art gallery while also helping all artists involved, the split on commission after the sale of an artwork is quite often 50/50. Utilities, rent, transportation, art fair exhibitions, travel costs, gallery maintenance, and a variety of other essential functions require funding.

The risk for the art gallery is quite high; therefore, artist selection is critical.

Art Exhibition at Living Artists Emporium

Living Artists Emporium is an Art Gallery that supports local South African artists and sells contemporary art across South Africa. We are located in New Doornfontein, Johannesburg, visit us today, we are open 7 days a week! Visit our storefront online and let us know if you are in the market for any specific art requirements, Living Artists Emporium will help find you the perfect art piece for your collection!