Garage Galleries Forest Park

Artists

Details

Artists in fine art are accepted in all mediums. Preference is given to artists from Forest Park and adjoining communities, but other Chicagoland artists may apply.

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Artist Responsibilities:

  • The artist will be responsible for the setup and breakdown of the display. Work with your garage host on setup and logistics.
  • Artists are encouraged to display art at a variety of price points and to have artwork on display for the entire duration of the event.
  • Artists are asked to provide photos of their artwork and a brief bio and description of their work, which will be posted on the Garage Galleries website and Facebook page, with links to artists’ websites or social media.
  • Promote the event! Send out information (we’ll provide!) on the event and promote it on your social media.
  • Interact with attendees! This event is designed to showcase art and artists in a fun, casual setting.

Accepted Artist Tips
(Pre-Show Preparation)

While you are getting ready for Garage Galleries, here are some tips!

  • Start planning Your Gallery
    • Plan how you will accept payment, create QR codes for virtual payments, if you plan to accept cash, make a plan for how you will give them change
    • Plan your display using tables? Need tablecloths? Need new display cases? Make sure you have a plan for any hanging art, as your host may not allow you to hang canvas on the walls. 
  • When you are assigned to our host garage, send a message to start planning your setup. Some garages may allow you to set up the day before, or may not allow you to until the morning of. 
  • Social Media: Ensure you promote your art and Garage Galleries across your social media channels.
    • Ideas for social media include:
      • Share Garage Galleries posts
      • Share “getting ready” for Garage Galleries posts
      • Returning artist? Share pictures you took from previous years
      • Share images of the art you will be bringing (make sure to label them as available at the gallery!)

Day Of Event Tips

  • Ask the host how they prefer to communicate about the setup. The assignments are sent over email, but some hosts may prefer different ways to contact. 
  • Decide early how you will accept payments, and create QR codes for any virtual payments (such as Zelle or Cash App). If you use social media, include what you accept when you set up. If you accept cash, make sure to have change. 
  • The images people see on the website you submitted in the application are often the art they will be looking for. Make sure to include images of the art you will have at the event. People will ask about them! (Same for images you share promoting the event on social media!)  
  • If you are selling smaller to medium pieces, people may ask for a bag or something to carry it in. Think and plan for how people who purchase your work may carry it home. 
  • If you are selling larger pieces, plan how people who purchase them will bring them home. 
  • Pack snacks and drinks! Stay fueled and hydrated! 
  • Use social media and tag the Garage Galleries in your posts. The more you post and interact, the more people will be able to find you. 
  • Plan your display. While you may have to make a day of adjustments, buying new items to display your work on the day of isn’t ideal. Make sure you have tablecloths, tables, and any necessary containers/display stands. Additionally, hosts may not allow you to hang items on their walls (such as a canvas). Make sure to bring what you need that will not cause damage to the garage.
  • Make and bring business cards if you want to share these with people to find your social media/buy custom work/stay connected! 
  • If you have any issues, email Garage Galleries!