After a bittersweet five days in Maine, including grief contrasted by laughs, great food, and artistry, I selected the safest day to travel back home to Connecticut. There were alternating days of heavy snow and then bright sunny days, so luckily Friday was free and clear so I could attend the opening receptions for three different shows. I’ve never attended three shows in an 18-hour timespan!
Each venue has its own personality, style, size, shape, and energy. When I was reviewing with my sister after attending all three, we started talking about what facets help to make a great opening reception experience. Here are some of the key elements:
Dynamic and interested interaction with all of the attendees
Feedback from the artists regarding their motivation and the source of their creation shared with the attendees
Incorporating spoken word into a visual art setting
Welcoming, complimentary, dynamic, and encouraging feedback
Celebrating various perspectives and talents
Soft music sets a background tone instead of boisterous tones that distract from the absorption of the attendees’ experience
A balance of having a cohesive show with diversity
Artistic styles that are compelling, unique, and conversation starters
A gallery representative that facilitates the sharing of artistic perspectives
Talent in hanging a show with a particular focus on placement, lighting, and visually appealing placement and precision. Nicely styled artwork tags are definitely a plus!
Effective social media promotion and engagement
Pleasant and appealing refreshments placed optimally
An environment that is conducive to both artists and potential art buyers
Ease of use and logistics for purchasing art
Respect for artists of all ages and experiences
Celebrating awards and incredible talent and goals
The philosophy that everyone has a story and is facilitated to share it safely and respectfully
The show season is already in full swing, and excited to share some exciting news as we go! In the meantime, I’m looking forward to getting excited for my next rounds of artistic creation and participation in upcoming shows.