Prescott Art Galleries

A limited amount of my art is currently only available through Mountain Artists Guild. I am unlikely to get very involved with galleries for the following reasons: 

1. Private galleries typically mark up work 100%. That means if my production costs are $500 and I want to make $500 to cover my travel, equipment, software, travel and time expenses, the individual piece will sell for $2000 at the gallery. Considering the expenses, there is very little if anything in profit.

2. Cooperative galleries typically take 25% of the sales cost plus the artist must be present at the gallery a significant amount of time. While I might not mind this on occasion, I just would rather be productive with my time in the field or at my computer.

3. The markups mean the artist must make choices that I currently do not have to make. One of these choices is to use less costly services (you might interpret this as lower quality) to maintain a reasonable profit. Another choice is that the artist might decide to sell his or her works at what I would consider a loss. That is, the artist might treat it as a hobby and just have ego satisfaction from making a sale. An alternative to this is that work would be priced much higher than other similar but not equal works. Shoppers are not normally "connoisseurs" of art, but buy on first impressions. I do not want anyone regretting a purchase of my art, so I insist on keeping quality at as high a level as possible. 

4. Local galleries are most successful in selling local prints. My portfolio has some great local prints, but I do not presently want to concentrate on just the local area. I am not doing this just to sell prints, but to get out-of-doors, find hidden gems and stay fit.

5.  Private sales have certain advantages over gallery purchases. Among these are (1) a wider choice of works available from the artist, (2) customization of sizes to fit a particular need or wall, (3) a wide choice of presentation media...that is fine art archival prints, canvas prints, metal prints, acrylic face mounted prints, etc. By offering quality photographic wall decor and collector's prints in this manner I avoid the excessive costs of printing and storing dozens of large images. I can provide lower prices and/or higher quality for what might be seen as a similar print in a store front gallery. I also have a wide network of the best landscape photographers in the world. If I do not have what you want, I can get it from one of my colleagues at great savings to you.

There are two other choices. One of those is to participate in art fairs. I am currently participating in local art fairs only! This does mean considerable upfront expense with booth equipment and the preparation and storage of the necessary inventory prior to and after each show. It is also a ton of work out of the field and in the "shop". If you love to meet people and have them tell you what a good eye you have, then this might be something for you to do. The second option is operating one's own gallery. This is almost attractive, because it could offer tons of wall space and the ability to set myself apart. I have some good friends who have done this. Two of them are nationally known photographers yet went broke, which one of the possibilities when you go "all in". A full commitment is necessary to make it, but also gives you the opportunity to lose more. I would only suggest this route for a photographer who can continue for several decades. 

If you are a photographer, consider these things in how you might sell your art. Keep at it and you will find a way.

If you are considering fine art landscape photo prints or decor for your business or home, I would be delighted to discuss your specific desires. Obviously, there is no charge for a consultation and no obligation to buy. Use the contact form or give me a call to arrange an appointment!