What To Do at an Art Opening

I want to start off by saying an art openings are a great way to find new art for your home… but they can seem intimidating if you haven’t attended them before. “What do I wear? What am I expected to do? What do I say?” might be some of the questions you have. All art openings are different, but there are a few nearly universal answers to allay your concerns:

What do I wear to an art opening?

Business casual is always a good bet when it comes to most art openings. Can you dress up more, or be more laid back? Sure. The venue should be a good clue - if it’s at a shop or brewery, dress that way you normally would to go there. Unless it specifically says that it’s a black tie event (which is pretty rare these days I think), you’re probably good as long as you don't come in your pajamas or holey/dirty clothes. Be comfortable, and be YOU!

What do I do when I first arrive?

• Identify the artist - Ask the greeter if there is one who the artist is. Sometimes they have a name tag indicating that they are the artist, and sometimes they don’t, so it’s not always clear who it is. Listening to conversations around you can also help you figure out who’s who. You don’t necessarily need to know who they are, but you can learn a lot more about the art if you ask them questions! 

• Look for an artist statement and bio displayed near the work, or sometimes on a pedestal or table so you can learn more about the art and artist. 

• Find the food If you prefer to get your bearings before talking to anyone, there are often refreshments available, so when in doubt, head there first. (Avoid onions if you plan to talk to people...)

How do I look at the art?

This might seem like a strange question, but if you are new to art shows, creating a process for yourself can be helpful:

• View the work from directly in front, and read the tag if there is one. 

• Ask yourself questions about it Is there a title? Is it obvious why it is titled this way? Can you tell what materials or technique the artist used? Have you seen anything like this before? Do this for each piece as you move around the room. If you answer no to any of these questions on any of the pieces, then you have some great questions to ask the artist! 

• Determine which is your favorite piece and come up with a reason or two that you like it (subject, colors, textures, size, etc) to share with the artist. They will appreciate hearing what you have to say. It is a very vulnerable experience to show one’s art (soul?!) to the public, so positive feedback is always welcome!

​What questions should I ask the artist? 

In addition to questions like “Why/how did you choose this title?”, “What materials/process did you use?”, “How did you come up with this idea?”, here are a few others to ask the artist:

• Which piece was the easiest (or most difficult) for you to make?

• Was there a piece in this collection that started the series?

• How long does it take you to make a piece?

• How has your art evolved over time?

• What is something you’d like to try with your art in the future?

What do I do afterwards?

• If you like the art, make sure to get connected with the artist by joining their email list or following them on social media. Ask them if they have any other shows coming up. Buy one of their works if it feels right, or if you would like them to create a custom piece, ask if they do commissions. If it’s not for you, that’s fine too! Artists know that their work won’t be for everyone, but they appreciate you coming to see it no matter what. 

Artists spend so much time holed up in their studios creating, and show openings are meant to celebrate the fruits of their labors. They are also a great opportunity for “newbies” to get acquainted with the local art scene and begin collecting. Small local art is often very reasonably priced, so it is a win-win: Artists get income to keep creating, and you get an original, unique piece of art to admire in your very own space.