Your First International Exhibition: How to Prepare and Succeed
Why International Exhibitions Matter for Emerging Artists
Exhibiting your work internationally is more than just showing art in a new city – it’s about expanding your audience, connecting with collectors, and building a global reputation.
The Holy Art has organized exhibitions in more than 20 cities worldwide, from London to Tokyo, offering artists the opportunity to place their work in front of curators, buyers, and press who may never have discovered them otherwise.
Preparing Your Application and Portfolio
The journey begins with a strong submission:
Curate your portfolio: Only include your best, most relevant works.
Follow submission guidelines: Carefully read the open call instructions.
Write a clear artist statement: Communicate your concept in simple, powerful language.
A polished application increases your chances of being selected and sets the tone for professionalism.
Logistics 101: Shipping, Framing, and Travel Planning
International exhibitions involve moving artwork across borders, which requires careful preparation:
Shipping: Use trusted couriers that specialize in fine art.
Insurance: Protect your work in case of damage or delays.
Framing and presentation: Prepare your works to be gallery-ready.
Travel: If you’re attending, plan your flights and accommodation early to maximize networking opportunities.
Promoting Your Work Before the Exhibition
Don’t wait until opening night to generate buzz:
Share teasers on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Send a short press release to your local news or art blogs.
Tag the gallery and other participating artists to cross-promote.
The more you promote before the event, the bigger your audience on the day.
Making the Most of the Exhibition: Networking and Engagement
During the show:
Introduce yourself to visitors and collectors – share your story.
Network with fellow artists – collaborations often begin here.
Capture content (photos, short videos) to use later on social media.
Remember, people buy into the artist as much as the artwork. Building relationships is as important as displaying your work.
After the Show: Following Up and Leveraging the Experience
Once the exhibition ends, your work is not over:
Thank the gallery and curators publicly.
Follow up with collectors or leads you met.
Update your website and CV with the exhibition listing.
Share a post-event recap on social media with photos and testimonials.
These steps extend the life of your exhibition and cement your reputation as an international artist.
Conclusion: A Stepping Stone for Your Career
Your first international exhibition can feel overwhelming, but with preparation, it can also be career-defining. By focusing on applications, logistics, promotion, and networking, artists can transform one exhibition into a gateway to global opportunities.
The Holy Art is proud to provide a platform where emerging artists can take that leap and shine on the international stage.
