Artists are always looking for ways to share their work with the world. Whether it be online, at art shows, or in a gallery, there’s opportunity everywhere. Perhaps, you came across a gallery and began fantasizing about seeing your work displayed on their walls and shelves. Now, you’re on the move and hunting down the right place for your work. As you begin looking at galleries, you’ll notice some are private while others are considered co-op. In order to decide which one you should choose, first, you must learn the difference between a co-op art gallery and a private gallery.
What’s A Co-Op Gallery?
A co-op gallery is also known as an “artist-run initiative”. Groups of artists come together to share their work, promote themselves and the gallery, and teach workshops and art classes. Some are lucky enough to have studio space for artists to create onsite. Joining a co-op gallery entails paying a membership fee, commission fee upon sale, and working in the gallery part-time. Working in the gallery gives the artists the opportunity to promote and sell their work face-to-face with collectors and other buyers.
What’s A Private Gallery?
A private gallery is usually run by an artist looking to display their work. They’re free to sell space to other artists to help cover the costs and run the business according to their own agenda. Depending on the gallery, you may wind up paying a monthly rate for space along with high commissions upon sale than a co-op would charge. This can be a great opportunity for an artist who’s created a name for themselves and needs a place to sell and show.
The biggest difference between a co-op and a private gallery is the way it’s run. Co-ops give artists the opportunity to work in the gallery and interact with buyers face-to-face. Private galleries are run by the individual artist or a board of members. Another thing to keep in mind is that private galleries tend to take higher commission rates upon artwork sales. Click here to learn more about joining our co-op gallery, Arrowhead Gallery ETC.