Curating and Managing your own Projects, from where to start?
As simple as something might be or as challenging a task may seem, without the proper tools, you will find yourself inevitably going back and forth, and around in circles. Emerging artists and those established are aware of this familiar endeavor; that associated with the mission to effectively manage their artistic projects. This article’s purpose is to re-assure you that what may seem like a stump in your artistic growth, is nothing more but a common feeling, one that all artists have experienced and moreover surmounted. We will provide you with an appropriate list of tips to get you started on handling your projects better!
Image taken from Spazzju Kreattiv Facebook Page.
The Curator in you, explore it
When managing your own exhibition or project, it is important to comprehend a curator’s role. Nowadays, curators adopt a range of skills to efficiently and professionally promote their artists and their exhibitions. Curators are usually responsible for advocating themes, selecting artists to take part, installing or de-stalling their works and in some cases; curators are in charge of press releases/coverage, catalogs or introductory essays. All are duties that an artist should take on board, if initiating their own exhibition. These essential points encourage a contextual dialogue between artist and the public. Once the artist is conscious of these roles, it is then time to put the points into action!
Plan and Do Your Homework
Before becoming duty bound, you should ask yourself if you are willing to manage your time well. Is it possible for you to organize an exhibition? and simultaneously deliver the works needed to make it successful? Time is pivotal. Make sure to update yourself with the peak season of the holding of artistic events. In such case, you could open doors and involve your exhibition with for example; that of an art fair or art festival. You might wish to include additional affairs that are going to target your audience. Closing events, artist talks or workshops are ideas to consider. Another critical point to reflect upon is funding. Will the exhibition be self-funded? or can you get the funds from specific organizers? Your theme might be a hot topic in your local community and thus may be considered investable. If you are going to self-fund, consider a budget. Examples of general costs are materials, technical support, promotion and equipment.
Writing Your Proposal
If you choose to exhibit your works at a gallery, residency, or some sort of socially-involved project, it is likely that a proposal will be asked of you. Don’t panic! Make it concise and short. Remember that more is less. You may find yourself in a discussion in regards to your intentions of exhibiting and the works you wish to exhibit. Costs in relation to production purposes might also be a point of discussion. Make sure that your proposal stands out and emphasize on the significance of your works. Take into consideration why they should exhibit your works in their venue. Don’t forget to add details to your requirements, for example; production, list of artists taking part, the space needed, plans on advertisement, the dates you wish to exhibit and budget. Artist’s statements and biographies of those participating are also a must.
No one said that getting yourself out there would be a walk in the park but than again, no pain no gain! Make a list, plan and get yourself organized. This way, you will be one step closer to fulfilling your artistic journey!
Responses