Finding the right gallery can be a daunting task for many artists. If left unchecked, self doubt and the fear of rejection can make gallery shopping an unpleasant experience. Recently, I found myself in need of a new gallery. At a time when many galleries are struggling to keep their doors open, I chose keep a positive attitude and view this as an opportunity – because, good galleries are always in need of good artists and vice versa.

After a referral from a fellow artist and a quick telephone conversation with the gallery owner, I was honored to be accepted into the prestigious Mountain Trails Gallery of Park City, Utah. Adam Warner, the owner made the decision to give me a try and represent my art after seeing my website. However, he explained that he was heavily represented with landscape art and was only interested in my still life paintings at this time. Adam then kindly asked me to paint specific still life work for his gallery genre which is primarily Western. Thrilled, I happily agreed.

Grateful for the opportunity, I got busy creating 5 new Westerned themed paintings for this gallery. But, I have to admit that I was slightly disappointed not to have full creative license. Was I being a people pleaser???

Yes, for the time being. It was time for me to prove myself and I know from personal experience that happy galleries make for happy sales! My plan was to paint-to-please and then win the gallery’s confidence in my skill and artistic voice. It worked! This is why…

• After calling ahead, I grabbed a friend, jumped in my truck and made the 5 hour road trip down to hand deliver the 5 paintings – instead of shipping the newly finished art.
• Nothing beats meeting the gallery owner in person! 
• Prior to walking in the gallery, I made a few final touches to my painting. (I always carry my pochade box with me!)
• I took a few deep breaths of mountain fresh air before walking in the doors…
• I really enjoyed meeting Adam – what a nice man! He made me feel welcomed.
• Adam was pleased with all 5 paintings.
• I snuck in a few extra non-Western still life paintings and a few of my landscapes for him to see.
• Adam liked my other work and was willing to show them as well.
• It was worth the effort!
• And…it even gets better…

At the end of our meeting, Adam offered to also represent my art in his Jackson Hole, Wyoming gallery!  In fact, he suggested that we drive on up to Jackson and we did just that!

After another 5 hour drive, I was excited visit the top drawer gallery and meet the gracious staff in Jackson. To my surprise, I even knew the gallery director, Pam. She had been the director of Trailside Galleries where I had previously shown my work years ago!  After a nice visit, Pam even kept the paintings I had left in my truck!

As we drove away, we were awed by the majestic surrounding scenery of Park City and Jackson Hole which is keenly reflected in the ambiance of Mountain Trails Galleries and the artists they represent.

So, three states in 28 hours proved to be a worthwhile trip! Now I better get back to my easel and paint my best work. Thank you, Adam and Pam for this great opportunity!

 Lori