Gallery Talks: Connect Public and Artists

What is a gallery talk?  Basically it is an opportunity to hear from the artist at the gallery where there work is on exhibit. Perhaps see a demonstration, hear about their process and inspiration, and meet them and ask questions.  Gallery talks provide the public access to the artist in a very intimate way that is casual educational and fun. 

Participating in the Colorado Art Open artists’ talks at Foothills Art Center today was very enjoyable for a variety of reasons.  As an artist, talking with folks about my work who enjoy art is very energizing as well as educational.  How do they respond to the piece?  What do they like or not like about it?  Why did they come to the exhibit or festival? Connecting with my audience directly rather than merely visually at a distance is extremely rewarding for me.  I love to anticipate their questions as well as hear new ones. Interacting with my audience, sharing my inspiration for the piece, the history and research behind it, as well as the materials and process used to create it all are part of the story. Art is really about sharing a story and connecting with others.