Alternate Spaces is a committee that arranges small non-juried shows in the community where members can display and sell their paintings. Listed below are the things this committee does for you:
- Arrange locations for shows
- Announces date/times at meetings and in newsletters
- Keeps records of artist/paintings at each show
- Makes labels, hangs and takes down shows
- Arranges procedures for sale of art work
Now, all you have to do is paint and frame your paintings. It’s a great way to get your art work out to the public and maybe make some money as well.
How to submit
The first thing you need to do is watch for show dates. You will hear about them at the meetings or in the Brushstrokes newsletter. E-mail (in your order of preference) the titles and prices of the paintings you wish to exhibit.
Please include your phone number and e-mail address. Send your entries to one of the committee members. Entries must be received one week prior to load in date. The number of paintings you may exhibit is determined by the wall space of the location. “Load in” and “load out” dates and hours will be published in Brushstrokes and announced at our monthly meetings. It is important that you have your paintings at the location on time and picked on time as committee members do not store paintings. While every effort will be made to protect your art, the committee, the venue and NMWS can not be responsible for lost, damaged or stolen art. Now all you do is paint and frame! All paintings need to be “ready to hang” so read ahead to make sure you are prepared.
Framing Requirements (and some good ideas!)
When framing your painting do it with a professional finish. It does not have to be expensive but please avoid cheap thin frames that are sold at Wal-Mart and Hobby Lobby. Metal sectional frames that you put together yourself are very nice and inexpensive if done well. To help you the committee has put together some guide lines to assist you in your framing endeavors:
- Make sure metal sectional frames have no gaps in the corners
- Backing paper on wood frames should be clean and tight without tears. Metal sectionals should have foam core not cardboard backings
- Mats should be clean and well cut. Careful of lint, pet hairs and fingerprints
- No plastic frames or frames in disrepair.
- No scratched or smudged glass or acrylic
- Paintings over 16x20 should be in acrylic and not glass for safety reasons in public locations
- All frames must have hanging wire (coated is best). No saw tooth hangers, string, baling wire or fishing line will be accepted
- Place a label on the back with your name, painting title, price and phone number
- Keep framing simple and professional to show off your painting. Remember, your name is on it!
If you have any questions about framing or non-traditional framing contact a committee member
What about fees?
There are no entry fees but some locations charge a rental fee that is split evenly among all the artists who enter the show. There is also a small fee if a reception is held. You will be told about fees at the time we announce the show dates.
Show me the money!
Some locations charge a commission when a painting is sold. Commission percentages will be announced when we announce the show dates, that way you can price your painting accordingly.
What is acceptable?
Paintings can be removed from the show if the location feels the content is not appropriate. The final say is at the discretion of the location.
Who to contact to get hung!
If you have any questions about Alternate Spaces or upcoming shows please contact any of the members below. We are always looking for new venues so if you know of any we would love to hear from you!
Committee Chair:
Committee Members:
