How to Exhibit Artwork Online

Set photos showing capture of image tiles for Arlene Mead painting for 30-foot print for elevator installation.

The world has changed for just about everyone. In the past, artists would exhibit their work in galleries and museums, providing a visual treat for all those people who would jam together in one space to experience the work. However, that may not be possible for the foreseeable future.

To continue exhibiting artworks, we are all much more dependent on quality photography of the objects so that the work can be enjoyed in virtual exhibitions. We are seeing a strong emergence of virtual galleries; online artist’s showcases; museum online outreach; and a host of other new hosting opportunities.

The potential for exhibiting one’s art has expanded since individual artists and art groups can set up an exhibition with no space rental costs, utilities or staff expenses. It is actually less expensive and far more accessible to create an online exhibition.

Step One: Gather a group or series of 3-12 artworks

Marketing can be a full-time job, but it makes sense to break your marketing campaigns into quarters based on 12 months of the year. Be mindful of the audience you think your work will resonate with and group your image needs for that group.

Step Two: Get your work professionally photographed

You will end up with color-accurate, sharp, detailed high-resolution images of your artwork. At The Scientific Photographer, we always capture high-resolution photographs for print reproduction and also provide web-optimized JPEG files for online use (they load much faster on the web). You may use these images for any purpose so store them in an easily accessible digital file.

Step Three: Post content that will draw in viewers

People are hungry for enjoyable content online. So, quench their appetite by serving up art that they can view from wherever they may be. Yes, you will be showcasing your own artwork, but are there ways to widen your outreach and connect with new audiences?

Here are some ideas to get up and running:

  • Most galleries and individual artists already have a website. Just add a gallery page for a “featured exhibition” and load up the photos of the works.
  • Are you part of an arts group? Chat with a few others in the group and spearhead a member’s online exhibition. Send out a call for digital entries, collect the images and post them on the group’s website.
  • Have you wanted to collaborate with another artist or two on a group show? Discuss your collaborative ideas and create an online exhibition. Choose a theme that pulls together the work and launch a professional virtual exhibition.
  • Geography is no longer an issue, so you can collaborate with others even if they are far away. You could even enlist a curator if you wish. By collaborating with other artists, curators and arts groups, you will leverage all of those communities – all of those mailing lists – to expand your exposure to new audiences.

Be sure to promote your show by promoting it through emails and social media. Engage with your art communities to spread the word and create an engaged audience.

It all starts with having a library of photographs that really show off the artwork in the best light. That takes planning, so take inventory of your work and make a plan to have it photographed. We can advise you along the way and will be ready to photograph your dimensional or flat art in the studio.

For more about our No-touch Photography Service –

July & August 2020: Watch for upcoming “Bring-in Days!”

Projects involving 20 objects or more are eligible for additional discounts – ask for a custom quote.

Yes, you may combine your work with someone else’s collection in order to qualify for discounts.

For more details and pricing, check the Photography Services page.

I would be happy to discuss your needs with you and provide a written quote for any project. Please give me a call at 805-689-8748 – I am always happy to chat about your imaging needs.

Email Scott

Call/Text 805-689-8748

Studio Location & Directions
1996 Eastman Ave, Studio 111
Ventura, CA 93003

Northeast corner of Eastman Ave and Market Street. We are in the Livingston Memorial building, about 2/3 of the way along the building away from Eastman Ave., facing Market St. Always call to set up a visit to the studio so that we can be there to welcome you.