How do you know when a juried exhibition is worth your time and effort? There are no guarantees, but you have to ask a lot of questions without allowing yourself to be intimidated by the circumstances. Realize that sometimes exhibitions are organized just to fill empty space. The best juried exhibitions are win-win situations for the organizer, the venue (if different from the organizer), the artists, and the public. Empower yourself by assessing the merits of a juried exhibition before you enter.

Noah Overby, Gather. Acrylic and collage on canvas, 36 x 48 inches.  (c) The Artist. http://www.noahoverby.com

ASK YOURSELF

What do I expect to gain from being accepted into this exhibit? What is the best possible outcome? What is acceptable? And what is the worst possible outcome?

Is there a hole in my resume that might be filled by this exhibit? Do I have friends or family in the area that I could invite?

How much of my time will it take to enter? How much of my time will it take if my work is accepted? What are the costs? Can I afford the costs (entry fees, shipping, framing, travel, etc.)? Is it in my budget?

Would my time and money be better spent if I devoted them to another opportunity, even if I have to make it up for myself?

Does my work fit in with the curator’s or juror’s aesthetic or with the guidelines for the show?

[And one of my favorites...] Have I outgrown this exhibit? Am I better established than most of the other artists who will enter?

ASK OTHERS

What is the reputation of the organizer? Who is the juror? Are there awards and prize money? What is the average attendance for this exhibit or for the venue throughout the year? Is it an easy place for people to find, walk to, or park near?

What promotions are planned? Is the organizer buying advertisements? Will they put out news releases and send announcements or invitations? Is there evidence of media attention that has been generated from this exhibit in the past? Will the exhibit be documented with a catalogue or brochure?

Does the venue have regular hours? Is there someone always at the venue to facilitate sales? Are there trained sales people? Or would it be difficult for a potential buyer to purchase? Are prices posted or at least easily available?

How much money has come from sales in the past? What is the percentage of accepted entries?

Is there adequate security? Does the venue insure your works while in transit and on view? Who will unpack and pack the artwork? Are personnel trained to handle art?

I realize you may not be able to get answers to all of these questions and, indeed, you might be considered an nuisance if you ask every one of them. Pick the questions that you are most concerned about, come up with some of your own, and ask away!

What have I forgotten? I’m blogging about this subject all week on the Art Biz Blog, http://www.artbizblog.com.