From Open Call to Opening Night: Getting Your Work into a Gallery
Two of my prints are currently on display at Found:Re Contemporary as part of the WTFolk exhibit, and I wanted to share a bit about how I got my work into the show; partly to demystify the process and partly to encourage other photographers who think galleries aren’t for them.
Mardi Gras Indian In Blue at Found:Re Contemporary’s WTFolk exhibit.
Finding the call
I found the open call for WTFolk through Artlink Phoenix, a fantastic resource that aggregates open calls and opportunities. I like using sites like that because they let you browse shows by theme, in this case, contemporary takes on folk art. As soon as I read the brief I realized I had work that fit: my Mardi Gras Indian series and a set of quinceañera party photos.
If you’re looking for gallery shows, start by following local and regional open-call aggregators, sign up for their newsletters, and check community arts calendars regularly.
Myself and the young woman who’s dancing in the photo! At the gallery opening I got to hear a lot of great stories from her mother about the traditional shoes featured in the picture, making this an awesome experience.
Submitting and acceptance
I applied and a few weeks later I got the email: my work had been accepted. That email is always a thrill, and also a reminder to follow through on the practical stuff you promised in your submission. For me that meant ordering metal prints of the selected images. Once the prints arrived I dropped them off at Found:Re the week before the opening. Tip: give yourself extra time for printing and framing; unexpected delays happen.
What the gallery handles
Many small galleries work on consignment and handle sales for a commission. That’s the case with WTFolk, which will be up for six months. They’ll take care of sales and buyer communication, and will issue you payment according to whatever consignment terms you agree on. If you’re new to galleries, make sure you understand the commission rate, payment schedule, insurance while the work is on-site, and any reproduction or marketing rights they might request.
Opening night and community
The opening was a blast. I brought a bunch of coworkers and we met afterward for drinks at Match Market and Bar. Found:Re Phoenix is a cool, hotel, gallery, bar and restaurant combo in a very cool part of town. The vibe of the bar and the show worked so well together. Part of the value of showing work in a gallery is that it creates an event around your photos: people see the work in a different context, you meet fellow artists and collectors, and it’s a chance to celebrate the work with friends.
Quick practical tips
Use open-call listings (like Artlink Phoenix) and local arts calendars.
Read submission guidelines carefully and tailor your entry.
Allow extra lead time for printing and presentation.
Confirm consignment terms (commission, payment schedule, insurance).
Attend the opening — it’s networking, exposure, and fun.
Keep records: filenames, print sizes, edition numbers, and delivery receipts.
