When I first applied to Charlie Cummings' "Cup: The Intimate Object XX" show, I had no idea they'd reach out and ask if I would be interested in doing a featured artist show! But they did, and my show opens in mid-May 2025!
In an effort to create some transparency around all facets of being an artist full time, I thought I would break down the show, and my reasoning for doing it, a bit.
First: the terms. Unsurprisingly, Charlie Cummings had some pretty serious terms for the show. The show has been booked since December of 2024, and I'm quite positive that's a touch late for a mid-May show. All of the work is actually due to the gallery 4 full weeks before the show even opens! Furthermore, I was required to agree to send a collection of at least 45 pieces with as few duplicates as possible. They specifically requested more than mugs (unless I only made mugs but) and a variety of price points and sizes (though nothing under 2inches or more than 18).
Additionally, Charlie Cummings required me to agree to maintain my pricing with them, even with their commission. Pieces can not have major price increases for them, while being available online for significantly less. In all honesty, I really appreciated this. Being an almost entirely online gallery gives buyers a chance in many instances to think about their purchase, and research it. Knowing that the standard has been set felt reassuring.
My reasons for wanting to do the show are mixed. Am I thrilled about putting in a lot of work- both in making and marketing- to hand over a large percentage of my sales? Not really. HOWEVER- I think it's an important stepping stone for me and for my business. While I am absolutely marketing this the way that I would a normal drop on my own website, Charlie Cummings is too! They have their own website, their own social media, and their own email list. Having access as an artist to that absolutely feels worth the price tag.
I'm also gaining a valuable experience on my CV as an artist. As an educator my resume was overflowing with experience. As an artist, my CV is a little... light. In combination with the added eyes I'll get on my work, signing up to do this show was a real no-brainer for me. And unlike other shows that feature multiple artists, this one is truly just me, which feels so surreal.
Charlie Cummings has also been absolutely WONDERFUL to work with. Truly. They've answered every question, helped me figure out exactly what to send and why, and they've done it all so kindly. I wouldn't have taken into consideration sending a variety of heights and widths for a great group shot without their expertise.
I know some of my regulars may have some feels about shopping my work with someone else, but it's truly a choice I made carefully and with so much consideration. I hope that no matter where my work is, as long as I put it there, you'll shop it!
With loads of excitement and lots of gratitude,
Amanda