The Ultimate Guide to Opening an Art Gallery

Have you been dreaming of opening an art gallery? You may be wondering if this is the right time to start a business. And make no mistake, art galleries are a business. While you don’t have to go it alone, having a passion for art is only part of the equation! Of course, both a love of art and a creative interest in artists are meaningful to becoming an art gallery owner.

Successful art gallery owners must strike a balance between the creative world and the business world since the purpose of an art gallery is to sell art and stay in business.

As the largest online marketplace for hourly rentals, including stunning art gallery spaces, Peerspace knows all about this subject. We support all our venue hosts, whether they’re opening an art gallery or a restaurant. Our hosts list their spaces on Peerspace for extra income by creating a personal listing, setting the venue’s hourly rate, and taking bookings from interested parties.

We’ve consulted some of our most successful art gallery hosts and came up with this ultimate guide to opening an art gallery. If you’re thinking about opening an art gallery but are unsure where to start, these tips from art gallery owners should set you on the right path.

• Get to know the market landscape
• Become an expert in your field
• Find your mode of business
• Design a space that inspires
• Rent out your space for extra income
• Create a strong online presence
• Create networking opportunities
• Plan an unforgettable opening night
• Embrace virtual galleries
• Get inspired and stay motivated
• Open up your art gallery with support from Peerspace

1. Get to know the market landscape

Before diving into opening your art gallery, it’s crucial to get a solid understanding of the market landscape. Spend some time researching the current art trends, what collectors are looking for, and who your competitors are. Identifying gaps in the market and untapped opportunities will help you carve out a unique niche for your gallery and attract the right audience.

The first step of starting an art gallery is researching the local market. To do so, take a survey of what’s already available in your city. Don’t be afraid to meet with artists or other art community members for assistance in evaluating the market to gain further insight from others. This research will help you determine the size, scope, and vision of your art gallery.

As you familiarize yourself with local galleries, think about the purpose your art gallery will bring to the area. Gauge whether the type of art you’re interested in featuring is already sufficiently represented and will attract clientele. If not, you’ll need to go in another direction in order to stand out and be successful.

You have a stronger chance of attracting customers by creating a niche in your local market — something that truly identifies your art gallery. For instance, maybe you’ll want to feature the works of local artists only. Or maybe your art gallery will be dedicated to French Renaissance artists? Either way, pick a niche and use it for inspiration as you build your art gallery

2. Become an expert in your field

If you’re going to operate an art gallery, you need to become an expert in the art world. Immerse yourself in art history, stay updated with contemporary trends, and get to know the artists whose work you admire. This depth of knowledge will not only build your credibility but also guide you in making informed curation decisions that will set your gallery apart.

Soak in all information about the type of art you will have in your gallery. You want to become an expert so you can talk the talk and walk the walk. Seek similar galleries outside your city and visit them online or in person.

Get a deeper knowledge of the artists creating this specific type of art, both prominent fixtures and emerging talent. Being able to explain each piece of art, its meaning, and its relevance in the genre will make your gallery stand out as one that buyers can trust.

“I started out knowing a lot of people in the art world. I worked with several galleries before launching my own space in 2004,” said Michael Foley, owner of a spacious art gallery in New York City. He also notes, “I had a head start, and that really helped.”

You’re a busy professional. Our 8 ways to earn money from your space (without lifting a finger) can help!

3. Find your mode of business

Before you open an art gallery, you need to decide how your art gallery will conduct business. Create a business plan that formulates how your gallery will operate, market itself, and your overall growth plan. Decide how you’ll get funding and the overall management structure.

How does your art gallery make money? If you plan on profiting from sales commissions, determine what your commission percentage will be. Like any business, art galleries adhere to tax laws. Now is the time to agree to an organizational structure, whether it’s a corporation or a sole proprietorship.

In short, finding a mode of business that aligns with your vision will help you build a sustainable and thriving gallery.

For more information, check out our handy guide on creating an event venue business plan.

4. Design a space that inspires

Now it’s time to consider your art gallery location. The venue should be easy for guests to access. When Michael Foley first opened his gallery, he chose a “gallery building” in Chelsea. A prime location ensured that people visiting other galleries would also come to his. His current gallery resides on a business street in the Lower East Side, which naturally receives good foot traffic.

Also, remember that an accommodating layout is key. Art galleries need to have enough space to hold several collections of art for show as well as in storage if possible. Don’t forget you need to be able to host receptions. That means a space large enough that allows people to socialize and move around.

Keep the interior décor of your art gallery to a minimum. You want to avoid distracting your potential buyers away from the art on display. However, incorporate decor elements that tie to your overall vision, as it further cements your galley’s branding.

The design of your gallery space can make all the difference. Create an inviting and inspiring environment that captivates visitors the moment they walk in. Pay attention to the layout, lighting, and ambiance so the artwork is showcased in the best possible way. A thoughtfully designed space will enhance the visitor experience and leave a lasting impression.

5. Rent out your space for extra income

After you’ve opened your gallery doors, you should think about others ways to make money beyond selling art. One way to do this is by renting your gallery for events, meetings, and even photo or film shoots.

This can be a great way to generate additional revenue and attract a wider audience. Plus, it adds a dynamic element to your gallery, making it a vibrant hub for the community.

And as we mentioned briefly in the introduction, you can list your space right on Peerspace.

Doing so offers you tons of benefits besides the obvious cash flow. For instance, it allows you to set your own schedule and fill your space’s downtime with bookings. You will also get to maximize your space while bringing in potential new art buyers. People may be interested in the type of art you sell, but they have to find your gallery first!

And by listing on Peerspace, you can potentially introduce your space to thousands of new eyes.

Peerspace host Ben Seidl says, “One of our aha moments was when people bought pieces of art while they were at a Peerspace event.” By exposing his gallery and art to new guests, he’s seen an increase in artists’ sales, which allows him to give 100% of commissions back to the artists. It’s a smart way to cover overhead costs while supporting the artists whose work you cherish.

6. Create a strong online presence

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential. Build a professional website that showcases your gallery’s offerings and keep it updated with your latest exhibitions and events. Engage with your audience on social media by sharing artist stories, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive posts. A robust online presence will help you reach a broader audience and build a loyal community of art enthusiasts.

Not only is it crucial to promote your gallery, but online services can also help you manage the space as well. When gallery owner Michael Foley first started his gallery, the most technology he used was for faxing and photocopying.

Times have changed, and so has the technology. “We use an advanced cloud-based inventory system called Gallery Manager which also connects directly to our website,” said Foley. “It’s super easy and efficient”.

If you’re not web-savvy, you can keep it simple with contact information and information on receptions and featured artists. There are various website-creating tools available from expert level to those with little HTML experience.

“Our website is dynamic and allows clients to buy select works directly on the website,” says Foley. Don’t limit yourself to a website only; share your gallery’s vision and art on social media. And remember, listing your space on Peerspace is another way to spread the word about your gallery.

Creating a dedicated community of followers will make promoting openings and new artists easier. Also, consider starting a monthly newsletter where you share updates on artists in your gallery and upcoming events.

7. Create networking opportunities

Connecting with people both in and out of the art world will aid your efforts in art gallery marketing. Network with other art galleries in your neighborhood to promote each other. Organize an art walk night where neighbors can stop by each gallery and peruse the art while enjoying a drink.

Attend art fairs, exhibitions, and industry events to meet artists, collectors, and other gallery owners. Building strong relationships within the art community can open up opportunities for collaborations, partnerships, and growth. The more connected you are, the more you can expand your gallery’s reach and influence.

Another good way to draw people into your art gallery is to list your venue on Peerspace and take event requests. Hosting events in your gallery brings new clientele in that might never have seen your art and provides another source of revenue. Invite community organizations to hold parties in your space.

Again, this introduces your gallery to potential buyers and builds relationships with local leaders to increase the success of opening nights at your gallery.

Hoping to list your art gallery for productions? Then check out our guide on renting your home for film productions next!

8. Plan an unforgettable opening night

This leads us to opening nights, an integral part of running a successful art gallery. Opening night receptions at an art gallery set the momentum for how the community receives your artist’s work. You want to develop a strong, compelling message with the art on exhibit.

Your gallery’s debut is a big moment, so make sure your opening night is unforgettable. Plan a standout exhibition that will draw people in and create a buzz around your gallery. Send out personalized invitations to key people in the art world and promote the event through strategic marketing.

Share the artist’s story and celebrate what makes their art special. And remember to make each visitor feel special. “It’s important to take care of the artist that night and to welcome each and every visitor that comes in,” says Foley. “You just never know who might make the decision to buy that night or who might come back to see the show again. We give everyone a warm greeting.”

He advises new gallery owners to be the perfect host, and show people a fun time. And of course, don’t forget to let visitors know that, yes, the artwork is for sale. Having cocktails and simple foods available for your guests will encourage them to stay and take in the art. An impressive opening night can set the tone for your gallery’s reputation and success.

9. Embrace virtual galleries

Why limit yourself to just physical space? Embrace the digital world by creating a virtual gallery. This allows you to showcase your art to a global audience and offer a unique experience to art lovers who can’t visit in person. Virtual galleries can be an excellent way to expand your reach, increase sales, and stay ahead in the evolving art market.

It’s no surprise then that virtual gallery interest has risen since the start of the pandemic and shows no signs of slowing down! You just need to create an event with hybrid attendance to attract in-person and virtual visitors alike.

Check out this feature by vFairs about how to host an event with virtual attendees and still make a profit. Developing a knack for hybrid events now will serve you amazingly well throughout your career in the art gallery business.

10. Get inspired and stay motivated

Operating an art gallery is a journey filled with challenges and rewards. Stay inspired by continuously exploring new artists, visiting other galleries, and keeping your passion for art alive. Surround yourself with a supportive network and don’t hesitate to seek advice and inspiration from others in the industry. With dedication and enthusiasm, your gallery will become a vibrant cultural hub.

And as we have mentioned, listing your art studio or gallery on Peerspace can be a lucrative and rewarding venture. But as you collect your ideas as you start to plan for opening an art gallery, Peerspace can help there, too.

Check out popular art galleries on our platform and source inspiration for your own space. Since Peerspace art galleries are in cities across the globe, you have an endless source of global inspiration to potentially tap into!

Here are some of our favorites for you to scope out:

• This urban gallery with natural light in San Diego, CA, that markets itself well for both social events and professional productions
• This glossy creative art gallery in Los Angeles, CA, that can serve as both a classic gallery space or a blank slate for renters’ needs
• This hidden gem photo art gallery in Austin, TX, that offers a curated body of work that shows off the city’s eccentric side
• This beautiful art gallery in Philadelphia, PA, that boasts a central location and advertises itself ideal for events, productions, and workshops

All of these amazing art galleries can offer you inspiration in how they decorate their spaces and advertise them to prospective renters. Check out these listings and take special note of their photos, amenities, user reviews, and pricing to see what aspects are most attractive to you and your budding business.

Check out our guide on how to start a venue rental business for more information!  

Open up your art gallery with support from Peerspace

At Peerspace, we have thousands of art galleries on our platform available to rent by the hour. You can even list your own space by including a detailed description, laying down some ground rules, and uploading high-definition photos of the space.

When it’s time to open your art gallery, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Peerspace offers a range of resources and venues that can support your journey. No matter you need a temporary space to get started, or you’re looking for a unique location for an event, Peerspace has got you covered.

Since Peerspace renters come to the platform specifically looking for a gallery space or an exhibit hall, they’ll find your space pretty quickly! Check out other galleries listed on our site, their description, photos, and reviews. This can help you decide what works best for your space, all while staying true to your aesthetic, of course.

The artist’s journey can be a challenging one. As a current or future art gallery owner, you have the opportunity to showcase their work and advance their success. Remind yourself that an artist’s success translates to sales which translates to the success of an art gallery.

Keeping the momentum going between sales can be challenging for most art gallery owners. So be sure to get creative with new ways to bring people into your gallery.

After your art gallery is up and running, help spread the word by listing your space on Peerspace. You can start hosting today.

Find unique art gallery spaces on Peerspace