It’s easy to assume that all you need to get into a gallery is great art, but anyone who’s tried knows it’s much more nuanced. And frustrating, too, since there isn’t a clear path.
Galleries are businesses, too—juggling relationships, logistics, events, sales, and more. And when a gallery is doing it well, it might look effortless from the outside. But behind the scenes? It’s anything but.
That’s why I invited Jason Ostro and Elena Jacobson of Gabba Gallery in Los Angeles to join me for this episode. Together, they offer a grounded, real-world perspective on what their gallery is looking for, what artists need to know, and how the relationship works best when both sides bring their A-game.
They share the unvarnished truth about what it takes to work with Gabba Gallery. You’ll hear about:
- How the artist-gallery relationship is really a collaboration, not a handoff.
- What makes an artist stand out—and what can turn a gallery off.
- How and why the 50/50 commission split is in place.
- The role of their annual affordable art show as a proving ground for new artists.
- Why professionalism and preparation can open more doors than you think.
If you’ve ever wanted to understand the artist-gallery relationship from the inside, this episode will be worth your time.