Attending an art gallery is a fun way to spend a morning or afternoon. You get to slowly wander around, taking in the range of art and learning about the artist. It’s calming, engaging, and provides education.
To truly make the most of the experience, you should put more thought and effort into the trip. Rather than rushing through the gallery, you should stop, take time, and learn as much as possible. Read on to learn how to do just that.
1: Research First
Before you step into the gallery, you should know a little about the artists or the theme. For example, if an exhibit is happening, learn what it is and why it’s important. That way, you’ll have a keener interest in attending.
2: Visit Galleries that Interest You
Don’t just find the nearest art gallery and go to that one. Instead, consider what type of art you like. For example, if you’re a fan of street art, you will likely enjoy the work of Richard Hambleton. You can find his work at Woodbury House Art in London, where you can take in his unique depictions of solitary figures and other artworks. For someone interested in street art, you’ll find a trip there far more enticing than an art gallery with themes or styles you know nothing about.
3: Speak with the Attendant
While you will likely want to spend a portion of your trip in silence while taking in the artwork, don’t hesitate to ask questions when you need to. That’s what the art gallery attendant is there for. You may want to know more about the artist. Or, perhaps you’re interested in purchasing a print. The attendant will help you with whatever you need, making the experience more fulfilling.
4: Put Your Phone Away
Nowadays, it is tempting to take pictures wherever you go – especially when seeing something interesting! Try to keep your phone out of your hand for most of the visit, though. That way, you can take in the art without being distracted by notifications or taking the perfect picture.
As a side note, you should also find out whether the art gallery allows visitors to take photographs, as some are strictly against it. Look out for signage providing information on this.
5: Bring a Friend
Taking in art alone is one thing, but it can be just as enjoyable – if not more so – when you have a friend attending with you. So, if you want to get more out of your experience, take a friend who loves art with you on the visit. Not only will they appreciate the invite, but they might also know some snippets of knowledge that you don’t that they can share with you!
6: Read As Well As Looking
When you think about viewing a painting or a sculpture, you assume all you have to do is look. Reading the caption underneath or to the side is a big part of the experience, though. The description will often tell fascinating facts about the artwork, such as when it was created, what tools were used, and why it’s so important. You will get far more out of your art gallery experience if you read the descriptions of all the artwork that captures your eye.
7: Go During an Exhibit
If you are interested in art and love going to art galleries, the chances are you have already been to all your local ones. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit again, though – go when there is an exhibit! By doing so, you’ll see new artwork you’ve never seen before. You might even discover a new favourite artist in the process.
8: Take Your Time
Art galleries should not be rushed. Don’t dash through each room, only looking at one or two paintings. Instead, take your time, noticing the small details in each piece of work. If you see an image you don’t understand, stop and examine it for a while and try to piece it together. Fall in love with a piece? Stop and admire everything you like about it, taking note of the reasons why. Doing these things will elevate the experience and give you a better appreciation for the art itself.
Making the most of an art gallery trip requires more than just a few glances. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, you must take your time and absorb what is in front of you. Do this at every gallery you visit, and your love for art will only grow over time.
