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• Use this when

  Use this before submitting to a gallery, exhibition, art market, juried show, retail partner, or public display.

• Category

  Artists, Makers, and Presentation

• Format

  Checklist

• Time required

  30–60 minutes, plus any framing or finishing work

• What it helps you do

  Prepare artwork and presentation materials so the work is easier to review, display, price, sell, and remember.

1. Artwork condition

• □ The work is complete, clean, dry, and free from preventable damage.

• □ Edges, corners, surfaces, mats, glass, and frames have been inspected.

• □ The work does not contain loose materials unless that is intentional and communicated.

• □ Fragile or unusual materials are identified.

• □ The finished piece matches the images or description submitted.

2. Framing and hanging

• □ Framing supports the work rather than distracting from it.

• □ The frame, mat, backing, and glazing are clean and appropriate.

• □ Two-dimensional work has secure hanging hardware.

• □ Wire is properly attached, taut, and positioned below the top of the frame.

• □ Sawtooth hangers, unstable clips, or improvised hardware are avoided unless specifically accepted.

• □ Three-dimensional work includes clear display requirements.

3. Identification

• □ The back or base includes the artist’s name and artwork title.

• □ The medium, dimensions, year, and inventory number are recorded.

• □ Any special installation, handling, or care instructions are included.

• □ Contact details are supplied in the gallery’s requested format.

• □ A complete inventory list matches the delivered work.

4. Pricing and sales

• □ Each piece has a clear retail price.

• □ Pricing is consistent across galleries, websites, markets, and direct sales.

• □ The artist understands the gallery commission or sales terms.

• □ Taxes, shipping, delivery, and payment responsibilities are clear.

• □ The price reflects materials, time, presentation, experience, market context, and sustainability.

5. Artist materials

• □ A concise artist statement is available.

• □ A short biography is current.

• □ Professional photographs accurately represent the work.

• □ Titles, dimensions, media, and prices are proofread.

• □ Website and social links are current and appropriate for public use.

6. Delivery and follow-through

• □ Delivery and pickup dates are confirmed.

• □ Packaging protects the work and can be reused when necessary.

• □ The artist keeps a copy of the consignment or exhibition agreement.

• □ The artist knows who is responsible for installation, insurance, promotion, and sales communication.

• □ Sold work, unsold work, and payments are tracked after the exhibition.

Scorecard

• A gallery may have its own requirements. Use this checklist as a foundation, then follow the specific call or agreement.

  All required items checked: Ready to submit or deliver.
  Minor presentation gaps: Correct before delivery.
  Missing hardware, pricing, identification, or agreement details: Not ready yet.

Next Step

• Your next move

  Photograph the finished, framed, and labeled work before delivery. Keep the image, inventory details, price, and location together in one record.