- Venue
- Private Views
- Location
I often go to Private Views by myself, not because I am particularly unsociable, but because I may be reviewing it for a publication. I like going to see art with people but actually prefer to go by myself, as then I can have a conversation with my own thoughts and figure out for myself what I believe the art to be saying, and I can be more aware of the exhibition and curation choices.
As artists, organisations and advice sessions are always banging on to us about networking, and getting into dialogues with galleries and so on. What better opportunity could there be than bumping into interesting or useful people at a PV. Everyone there is already a like-minded person in some way, involved in the arts industry or an interested viewer.
I have given myself a challenge or game at these things to have a conversation with three new people. This task is sometimes easy, but I actually conclude that artists in general tend to have rather reserved personalities. As grown ups and artists, we can’t afford shyness, or to stick with the person we came in with. It’s easy, and even an awkward opener of “Do you like it” will do.
I’ve made some great contacts and even friends at things like these, but everyone has an insight into their particular take on art and the artworld to share. Not making eye contact could be a lost opportunity when there is a captive audience.
This is a review or reflection overall on PV’s and networking events. What if we all went with the agenda of a three new people rule?
