An Art Gallery Visit

On Friday, I visited a local art gallery (Benfield Art Gallery) to learn what it would take to be represented there, and it was an interesting experience. A few things I learned:
- As expected, the art market is rather saturated, even in fine arts. Considering how few people actually buy fine art for their homes, this market situation is not surprising.
- Art galleries in bigger cities (Baltimore, Annapolis, etc.) have greater reach and more customers, but also tend to cater to better known artists, with even more competition to be represented there.
- Representation can happen if you catch people's eyes during open shows, which happen once, maybe twice, a year. Still, you need a resume of sorts regarding artistic achievements and such to be considered by art galleries. (This illustrates the importance of an internet presence, where there are fewer barriers to entry.)
- Pricing for framed watercolors on paper that are comparable to my works typically range from $200 to $450. Lesser known artists charge prices at the lower end, of course.

So, while they liked my work, there is still a process involved to even be considered for representation, but the visit was still worthwhile. I recommend that any artist who's looking to sell their work visit a local gallery since it is a good way to learn more about the art market. Pricing examples in particular are worth the visit since there's almost no good information on the internet about that topic.

Autumn Impressions

A colorful, impressionist look at autumn leaves on the trees above as the late afternoon sun lights them afire in color.

Acrylic painting: 14" x 17"

Daylilies and Drizzle

On a cloudy, drizzling day in late June, orange daylilies bloom by the side of a rural road, adding a spark of color in place of a hidden sun.

Acrylic painting: 14" x 17"

Waterrock Knob - Sunset Stormscape

About a decade ago, my brother and I went on a roadtrip through the Smoky Mountains. We saw the sunset amid storms near the top of Waterrock Knob. While I painted this scene once before soon after the trip, I decided to approach it again, using what I've learned since then. The end result better captures the infinite hills and rolling, illuminated clouds, though nothing compares to actually having been there.

Acrylic painting: 14" x 17"

Getting out of Town

The Independence Day holiday approaches, and what better time to get out of town and go for a long drive through farmland with a setting summer sun?

Acrylic painting: 14" x 17"

Evening Lakeside Storms

Low evening sunlight stretches across a vast lake, catching the shores and tree tops in a warm glow. Miles away, storm clouds are illuminated in the waning light of day.

Acrylic painting: 14" x 17"

Lazy River Driftwood

A lazy, clear spring river meanders along under the shade of tangled trees. Here and there, driftwood lies in the water, the only reminder of a harsh winter.

Acrylic painting: 14" x 17" (SOLD)