Why Every Artist Should Consider Entering Art Shows
- Denise Cerro
- Feb 8
- 4 min read
When I first started creating art, I wasn't even thinking of entering art shows...I was just having fun and discovering a new way to be creative. Though over time, I found that participating in art shows actually transformed my art and my confidence as an artist. If you're an artist or art student wondering whether to show your art in public exhibitions, I hope this post will explain why entering art shows is one of the best decisions you can make.
As you may know...I teach a mixed media class on Sundays. I am SUPER excited that these
emerging artist are all excited about entering shows...once they got over the initial scare! I'm happy to report that several of my students have entered and been accepted in four different regional shows so far...and they're just getting started. A bonus to this is it also keeps them excited about creating new art and building their skills...and portfolios!
Building Connections with Collectors and Peers
One of the biggest and best benefits of entering art shows (besides selling your art) is the opportunity to meet collectors and other artists in person. Art shows bring together people who appreciate art and want to invest in it. When you show your art in these settings, you create a chance for collectors to discover your work in person. These one on one connections often lead to sales, commissions, or invitations to future exhibitions...and best of all...people who appreciate the art you're creating!
Beyond collectors...art shows allow you to connect with other artists. These connections can lead to collaborations, shared studio spaces, or simply valuable advice...relationships that are hard to build by way of online.
Gaining Real Feedback and Improving Your Craft
Showing your art publicly means exposing it to honest feedback...kinda scary for sure...but this feedback is crucial for growth. When I first displayed my paintings, I received comments that really made me think differently about composition, color and presentation. Some feedback came from collectors, others from gallery owners or visitors. Each perspective helped me improve.
Art shows also teach you how to present your work professionally. You learn how to write artist statements, price your pieces, and arrange your art for maximum impact. Skills that are essential if you want to build an art career.
Increasing Visibility and Building Your Reputation
Participating in art shows raises your profile in the art community. When your work appears in exhibitions, it signals that you are serious about your craft. Galleries and collectors notice artists who consistently show their art. This visibility can lead to invitations to juried shows, gallery representation, or even media coverage.
As an example...I had a piece in the San Diego Watercolor Society's 45th International Show this year. That recognition opened the door to a larger exhibition of my art as part of the Artist Spotlight at The Studio Door gallery in San Diego. The momentum from one show can certainly create lasting opportunities!
Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence
Many of us artist types hesitate to enter art shows because we fear rejection or criticism...
believe me, I felt that same way. Putting your art out there is putting a piece of you out there for all to view! But showing your art publicly is the most powerful way to overcome those fears. Each show you enter builds your confidence and resilience...and before you know it you are wanting to enter every show you find out about!!!
When you see people appreciating your work, it encourages you to keep creating. Even if your art doesn’t sell immediately, the experience of sharing your vision is rewarding. Over time, you learn to separate your self-worth from sales and focus on growth.
Practical Tips for Entering Art Shows
If you decide to enter art shows, here are some practical steps to get started:
Research local and regional art shows: Look for events that match your style and level of experience. Cafe is a good start: https://www.callforentry.org
Prepare your portfolio: Select your best pieces and make sure they are photographed well, along with preparing your art to hang on a gallery wall.
Write a clear artist statement: Explain your work in a way that connects with viewers.
Price your art thoughtfully: Consider your experience level and the local art market
Engage with visitors: Be ready to talk about your work and listen to feedback.
Follow up with contacts: Keep in touch with collectors and other artists you meet, create your email list from these contacts...you own that email list!
To the point...I currently have pieces in five shows!
The work I entered into each show goes along with the theme that they asked for in their "Calls To Art." If you have a chance to see any of these shows, please stop by...keep your eyes open for the above paintings to be hanging with all the wonderful art juried into each show!
The Studio Door San Diego / Artist Spotlight / Jan 2 - Feb 13
San Diego Watercolor Society/ Touching Your Heart / Feb 1 - Feb 28
Escondido Arts Partnership/ Expression Gallery / Dames On Grand / Feb 19-March 20
Covet Gallery Oceanside / Chef's Kiss / Feb 21 - March 21
The Studio Door/ Crow Show / Opens Feb 20th for six weeks
So there you have it.
If you're an artist...hone your skill...create your art...enter that show...share it with the world!
And if you are an appreciator of the arts...art doesn’t exist without people who notice it, sit with it, and choose to live with it....so thank you. Supporting the arts isn’t just about owning a piece...it’s about valuing the time, risk, and heart behind it. When you purchase original art, you’re saying this matters...you’re keeping creativity alive, visible, and human.
Thank you for being someone who sees art not as decor, but as presence.
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