The art of networking: building connections in the art world

In the art world, opportunities often come from who you know as much as what you create. Whether you are an emerging artist preparing for your first exhibition or an established professional looking to expand your influence, building authentic connections can lead to collaborations, exhibitions and collectors. Networking is about forming relationships that actively support your artistic journey.

Prepare your story

Before stepping into a gallery opening, art fair or workshop, be ready to introduce yourself clearly. Prepare a short statement about yourself and your artwork in everyday language that explains what drives your work. Share the themes you explore, the inspiration behind your projects, or the materials you love to work with. This helps others quickly understand your practice and invites curiosity.

Practical tip: Create both a 30-second and a two-minute version of your introduction. The shorter one works well in quick conversations, while the longer version offers more depth when someone shows interest. Practise both with a friend to build confidence.

Show up where the art community gathers

Connections often start in person. Attend exhibition openings at spaces such as the Contemporary Art Gallery, Or Gallery or Centre A. Participate in Art Talks hosted by the Vancouver Visual Art Foundation. Art fairs like Art Vancouver are also designed for conversation and meeting new people.

Workshops, residency programs and open studios are also excellent for networking. Spaces like grunt gallery, Western Front and Artspeak often host events that bring together artists, curators and collectors.

Practical tip: Arrive early to events. Smaller crowds make it easier to start conversations before the room gets busy.

Listen and engage

Strong connections grow from genuine conversations. Ask open-ended questions about someone’s work, process or current projects. Respond thoughtfully and share relevant experiences from your own practice. This makes the exchange memorable and positions you as someone open to collaboration.

Practical tip: Prepare three conversation starters before an event. For example: “What drew you to this exhibition?” or “What projects are you working on right now?” Having these ready reduces pressure and helps keep conversations flowing.

Use digital spaces to continue the conversation

Networking continues online. Platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn and Artsy help you showcase your work and stay connected. After meeting someone, send a quick message, follow their account or comment on their latest post. Online engagement shows ongoing interest and makes it easier to stay top of mind.

Practical tip: Set aside 10 minutes a week to engage with posts from your network. Consistent, thoughtful interaction builds stronger connections over time.

Be prepared with materials

Make it easy for people to learn more about you. Carry business cards with a QR code linking to your website or Instagram. Collectors and curators often want to see your work immediately, so ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and accessible. Platforms like Canva can help you design professional cards, while Wix or Squarespace provide simple website templates.

Practical tip: Create a one-page digital 'lookbook' or PDF of your key works and keep it saved on your phone. Sending it directly during a conversation adds professionalism and leaves a strong impression.

Follow up and nurture relationships

Connections deepen through follow-up. Send a short thank-you message after meeting someone, share details about your next exhibition or invite them to upcoming events. Tag contacts in relevant posts or share opportunities you think may interest them. Small gestures of thoughtfulness demonstrate value and respect.

Practical tip: Keep a contact log—this could be a simple spreadsheet or notes app where you record who you met, when and what you discussed. Review it monthly to remind yourself to reconnect.

Stay authentic

People respond to sincerity. Share your enthusiasm for art, respect others’ practices and express genuine curiosity. By staying authentic, you build trust, which is the foundation of long-term professional relationships.

Practical tip: Be selective with your time. Focus on building fewer, stronger relationships rather than trying to meet everyone. Quality connections often matter more than quantity.

Networking as a career tool

Networking is not only about expanding your circle; it is about creating opportunities for your career. Many artists secure gallery representation after curators see their work at events. Collectors often prefer to purchase art from someone they have met and spoken with directly. Residencies and grants frequently ask for references, and those connections often grow out of relationships built through networking.

Practical tip: When setting networking goals, tie them to career outcomes. For example, aim to meet curators who organize group shows, collectors who support emerging artists or peers who may want to collaborate on an application for a residency or grant.

Building connections in the art world takes practice and patience, but every conversation plants a seed. With preparation, follow-through and authenticity, networking becomes a pathway to both creative growth and professional success.

by Preety Komal