The Gallery Diaries – Top Tips for Submitting Artwork to Galleries

I’ve had the honor of exhibiting my work in a variety of group art shows over the years. It’s always helped me move forward as an artist, whether the theme got me to think differently about my creative process or I made new connections by getting my name out there through the show. 

Now, as the Gallery Director of ALG Fine Art, I get to provide a platform for other artists, curating immersive art experiences that highlight their talent, encourage them to grow creatively, and open the door to connecting with collectors and industry professionals.

We currently have an open call for artists to submit their artwork for our Visiting Artists Show “Poetic License – Art to Navigate a Beautiful, Messy World.” There are four acts to this show inspired by four poems in J.K. Kennedy’s Clumsy Beauty“Creativity,” “Experiments,” “The Destination,” and “From the Thoughts Pile.”

With my dual perspective of artist and curator, here’s what I’d say to any artist thinking about submitting to the show.

Do it!

I know all too well how imposter syndrome can take over and suddenly you’ve convinced yourself that you’re not ready. Don’t let self-doubt stop you from taking opportunities that you’re excited about. You never know what could come from putting yourself out there, displaying your artwork in a gallery, and reaching a whole new audience through the show. What if it does work out? Go for it and find out. 

 

Celebrate you

I love exploring other artists and art movements for inspiration. My love for impressionist art is what inspired my solo show. But don’t forget that the most powerful part of your art is the pieces of yourself that you put in it. Let your artwork celebrate your style, your narrative, and your representation of the poems we have chosen as inspiration. Your unique perspective is what we are looking for. 

Tell a story

For the Visiting Artists Show, I choose the artwork we are going to display through a blind selection process. Only afterwards do I get to read the stories behind the submissions. Consistently, the pieces that I am drawn to in the blind selection process have an inspiring story behind them. They explore the nuances of the human experience in a way that touches and moves the viewer, even when they don’t know the artist’s intentions. Storytelling resonates. 

Throughout my artistic journey, I can pinpoint the opportunities I took to be part of group art shows as turning points. They provided an environment where I could grow in my creative process and expand my connections and profile. I’m so excited to share an opportunity like this with you. Take the opportunity and use it to share your unique perspective and powerful story. 

You can find all the details of the ALG Fine Art Visiting Artists Show 2025 here. Take your time filling out the application form. Sharing all these details helps us promote your artwork during the show so it connects with art enthusiasts and collectors. I can’t wait to see the incredible art you create. Application closes on Wednesday, August 13th!