Selling Editions at Shows

[the2lees]

This should probably go in a "Business of Sculpture" Forum, which would be nice to have. Since there isn't such a chat, I hope this will be appropriate here. From my recent posts, you may know I'm just turning pro, so I have some questions as I await the return of my first pieces at the foundry.

I just went to the Toronto International Art Show (there were only a handful of figurative sculptors featured) and saw galleries selling sculpture editions by red-dotting them and holding the gallery piece for the whole weekend.

My question is how do you guys sell editions at shows. Do you encounter people who want to bring home the piece on display? Presumably buyers of second or third pieces will have to wait a month or longer to get their art. Do they mind? What kind of a (non-refundable? refundable?) deposit do you take?

Candice Lee

[fritchie]

Candace - Practices probably vary all over the map. We have had questions on this subject from time to time, but I can't give you a specific location.

In my experience fixed galleries, which generally run shows on a month-long basis, do want pieces to stay for the full show, though they may make exceptions if extra work is available to occupy the space. People who have described these temporary shows, I believe, say material may be taken immediately at some and may be required to stay the full time at others.

I expect you will get answers from people more knowledgeable with this than I am.

[sculptor]

candylee

If I have to incur expense (time, work, $) I charge a non refundable deposit to cover the out of pocket.
If the gallery wants to keep the showpiece, and I'm just making a replacement copy, I'll allow most of the deposit to be refundable.

I usually let the galleries deal with the business part and just give them whatever they think'll sell.
If I need the piece back (remolding, other customer, etc), I let 'em know and go pick it up.

Gallery representation means a lot to me, so I'm very liberal where they're concerned.

If you have a gallery place a piece in a show, and they're liable, ignore it, and let them work. If they sell multiples, again I'll request a deposit before making more---non-refundable deposits seem to guarantee a sale.

It's a balancing act between what keeps you comfortable and what works best for the gallery. Ask for whatever it is that makes you comfortable, and compromise as apropos.

good luck

rod
sculptor