Galleries and artists have a symbiotic relationship, with each providing something of value to the other. Galleries offer a space for artists to showcase their art, while artists provide art to galleries. Most galleries take a commission of around 50% on any pieces sold, although some may take 40%. I have exhibited my photographs in many galleries across the United States, but I have never been asked to pay for the privilege. Recently, The Art Newspaper published a contract from a renowned Mayfair gallery that asked artists to contribute more than 4,000 pounds in order to participate in a group exhibition in London.
This practice has been widely criticized as taking advantage of the insecurity of artists in an increasingly difficult profession. It can be difficult for galleries to present the work of an artist who has the same price as a renowned artist but does not have the same career. Every agreement between artist and gallery is different, but it is highly unusual for a commercial art gallery to ask an artist for money in exchange for exhibiting their work. As galleries and art companies struggle to make money, charging artists to exhibit at group shows, art fairs, or awards is becoming more common. In addition, artists must pay a commission on any sales and bear the shipping costs to and from the gallery.
I was pleased when I was selected by one gallery; however, my old self would have been more excited if I had not had to pay. In general, galleries that require an artist to pay for things like participating in art fairs, printing promotional materials, or renting wall space are not looking out for the best interests of the artist.
