Your creative tendencies and love for art got you started as a gallery owner in the first place. But administrative tasks seem to be taking over, and you keep wondering why. Is this what you started for? From supporting artists to being an integral part of cultural dynamism, gallerists deal with much more than solely selling works of art. We herewith share our insider knowledge on overcoming common challenges in running a gallery and help you maximize the time to focus on what you love the most.
Assistants come, and assistants go…
One challenge known to almost every gallerist is the turnover of gallery assistants. The change of hands often results in the loss of valuable information and a general lack of efficiency and accuracy in communication. Keeping a track record of all gallery-related matters in one centralized system keeps all relevant details with you. In other words, data does not leave with your employees!
2. Building a stress-free show
We know that putting up a show involves an assortment of challenges. Rely on amy to take on the organizational and administrative tasks and focus on your artists. Does printing a price list minutes before the opening cause you stress? Select your final selection of artworks and print elegant price lists in a minute.
3. For sale, or not for sale?
Knowing which artworks are available for sale and which are not at any given moment is essential. This information is especially relevant during art fairs when a collector inquires about the availability of an artwork. Being able to quickly check this information is vital. Take for example a collector inquiring about a specific edition. Being able to instantly check whether the specific edition is available and assigned to your gallery will save you a tremendous amount of time and effort, and could be the difference between a sale or a fail.
4. Art fairs
Art fair preparations are dynamic and eventful but can turn hectic if not planned properly. By ensuring you can easily and quickly create transport lists, documents containing artwork information, and keep track of proposals and the following-up, you can stay on top of your art fair activities and turn them into a smooth experience. Amy streamlines your workflow before, during, and after the art fair, enabling you to seize every opportunity that comes your way.
5. Managing your storage
How is an artwork packed? What is the size of the package? How much does it weigh? Where is it? Is it in storage, or is it on loan? Is it packed in one or several boxes? How much time have you spent trying to answer these questions… Imagine a scenario in which you remember that an artwork is packed, but your registrar is unaware that it comes with its own pedestal. If your transporter leaves without it, it will cost you. In addition, your collector who has been looking forward to installing their new artwork will be disappointed. Information about artwork location and packaging considerably increases your professionality, and efficiency, while making your life as a gallery owner easier.
6. Supporting your artists
We know that as a gallerist there is much more than meets the eye in terms of supporting your artists. We know it requires you to go above and beyond. By keeping track of all the agreements you made in your centralized system, such as who paid for what in production costs, a track record of exhibitions, artwork damages, inventory lists, and much more, your artists will always be in the know and aware they are in good hands.
7. Supporting collectors
Keeping artists happy is one thing, making sure that collectors are taken care of is another. Collectors are not only interested in the physical aspect of an artwork, but also its accompanying intangible value. The story behind an artwork spans from the exhibitions the artwork was a part of to questions about whether the artwork can fit in one’s living room, to specific handling instructions. By having this information at your fingertips, you will always have an answer to all the collectors’ questions. They will feel supported, enabling you to build sustainable and long-term relationships.
Using a system created by art world professionals who have in mind the unique position of gallery owners and their wide array of responsibilities will streamline your workflow in the best way possible. This enables you to optimize your organization and focus on what matters most: art, artists, and clients.