So, You Own An Art Gallery?

Not a physical one. TheMWGallery.com started years ago when I began to think about web space as gallery space, an online gallery being open 24 hours a day to display work and share some of what happens during acts of production.

Otherwise, wouldn’t work just sit in a flat file, rack, or on a wall at home?

Spaces such as this became widely referred to as “artist sites” or “portfolios.” An “artist site” sounds awfully bland however, and a “portfolio” sounds too academic. A “gallery” on the other hand is a term that isn’t too loaded for those not living and breathing the peculiarities of the contemporary art world on a daily basis.

Since starting TheMWGallery.com, a lot has changed online and in the art world. Social media now gives artists more channels to stream images of work, thoughts on process, and news. For some, this dilutes the artist persona and image. For others, it provides the audience with more substance to engage. Sites like Saatchi Art have grown larger, connecting artists and art enthusiasts around the world by providing a digital venue for showing work.

Nothing will ever fully replace a physical space, but a strong virtual presence is becoming an absolute must. And as a multimedia artist, it’s hard to imagine a creative life without a strong virtual presence that works in tandem with an offline existence.

I routinely receive questions on this topic, and here are some of the remaining, more frequently asked questions:

Do you use sites like Saatchi Art?

Yes, I have posted one series of work exclusively on Saatchi Art. Other works may also be made available there by series as well.

So, wait, are you represented by a “gallery?”

No. Not right now. I’m certainly not opposed to it.

So, you sell your work directly?

Yes. I can, and I do.

What about shows in the physical world?

I do solo pop-up shows, group shows, and I donate to non-profit auction invitationals.

Could this all be bigger?

Yes. I’m open to new ideas and opportunities. Artists, gallerists, enthusiasts, just reach out. I like ideas. Ideas are fun.

Do you like asking yourself rhetorical questions?

Who doesn’t?

 

Do you have other questions or want to reach out? Contact contemporary artist Matthew White directly.

Updated April 11, 2016.