Ever been curious about going to an art show? Maybe you’re wondering if you have to buy something, or if it’s okay just to wander and soak it all in. (Spoiler: It absolutely is!)
I’ve had the best time heading across the country for art shows, and we have an epic one coming up very soon in Wellington - so, I thought, what better time to chat through all things art show, and give you a little insight into what happens in a giant room full of artists?
Here’s what you need to know before you head to your first show - and a few insider tips for finding your perfect piece.
What happens at an art show?
Art shows usually run for 2–3 days, and they’re like an art supermarket - but better. Art shows bring a crazy amount of artists together under one roof with a selection of their creations, and you get to wander around, check out their creations, and get amongst the vibe!
A typical visit to an art show involves:
Browsing a huge range of work from an incredible variety of artists
Meeting the artists behind the pieces
Asking questions and picking their brain
Buy if you want - but there’s zero pressure
There’s a super welcoming, creative energy that you just don’t get anywhere else. I absolutely love it!
Behind the scenes: How I prepare
An art show isn’t just a weekend event - it’s months of preparation. To give you an idea of the timeline and work that goes into prepping for an art show:
Here’s how it usually goes:
10-8 months out: Apply to be part of a show (fingers and toes crossed).
Once accepted: Start planning what to take - usually a mix of existing pieces and new creations I’m dreaming up.
6-8 weeks out: Order frames, lock in final designs, and prep for printing.
2-4 weeks out: Print and prep! Every detail counts.
Last 2-3 weeks: The final stretch- gilding, adding ceramic elements, and framing.
It’s a full-on creative sprint, and I’m usually fuelled by coffee, podcasts, and a lot of late-night glitter clean-ups. But seeing it all come together on the walls at a show? Worth every minute.
How to choose art at a show
With so many pieces on display - how could you possibly choose!
If you’re coming to the art show looking for an art piece - or you just want to shop around - here are a few tips on choosing which pieces to take home with you:
1. Trust your gut
If you find yourself drawn back to a piece again and again, that’s your piece!
2. Ask questions:
Artists love to chat about their process, their inspiration, and the materials they use. Don’t be shy! Sometimes finding out more about how a piece was created can really make you feel a connection with it.
3. Visualise:
Picture where the piece could live in your home or workspace. Does the size work? What about the colours in the artwork?
4. You don’t have to buy straight away
It’s totally fine to take a card and think about it later! Art shows are about experiencing the work and discovering new artists too.
The next art show I’ll be at is my local! The NZ Art Show will be taking place at TSB Arena and Shed 6 on Kings Birthday Weekend (May 30 - June 1). 250 artists and more than 4000 original pieces under one roof - come along, soak up the creativity, and maybe - just maybe - find something you’ll love for life!
