by Kathy Gulrich
 

Last week I received an invitation about an upcoming art show from an artist in Seattle, Washington - and thought it was terrific. 

So terrific, in fact, that I asked her permission to share it with you.

Before I show it to you, however, I'd like to talk a bit about invitations in general.  So, here goes....
 

1 - Who gets your invitation?

Good question.  And a good answer, I think, is "everyone."

When you're showing your artwork, announce it to the world! 

Send your invitation to your friends, colleagues, and collectors.  Send it to your neighbors, your relatives.  And to anyone else who might be interested in your artwork - or in supporting you as an artist.

If there's an opening reception, or artist reception, let everyone know you'll be there - and that you'd love to see them there.

Should you send an invitation to people who live too far away to attend your show?  Absolutely!

Your invitation is a great way of letting them know what you're up to.  And it shows them that you're not only a serious, professional artist - but also a successful artist.
 

2 - Timing and budget

If you're having a show at a gallery, chances are they'll be preparing a printed invitation, and giving you enough extra copies to mail out to your list.

Many times, however, you'll need to write and prepare your invitation yourself.

For speed and affordability, you can't beat an email invitation.  And if you take some care to write and design it carefully, it can look very professional.

Email invitation tip:  Keep formatting and graphics to a minimum, as these elements tend to go missing - or go awry - when they travel through cyberspace.

If you have snail mail address for everyone on your list, a postcard or folded invitation is a possibility.  Just be sure to start early.  You'll need to leave time for designing, printing, shipping - and the post office. 

You can probably produce a basic 4-color postcard invitation for about $100-150 (you might check out Modern Postcard, for example). 

The huge advantage of a printed invitation is that you can showcase your artwork.

The major disadvantage?  Yep. That $100+ that you'll need to spend for production. 

(And don't forget postage:  Mailing 100 postcards @ $.23 postage each = $23.)
 

3 - The basics

When it comes to great invitations, there are clearly some basics:
 

• Be sure to include all pertinent information:  day, date, time, exact address, driving directions, etc.

 
• Give date/time of the opening reception and opening dates/times for the duration of the show

 
• Describe whether it's a solo show, juried show, group show, etc.

 
• Also: dress code, refreshments, whether artwork will be for sale, payment options, etc.

 

4 - Lisa Lamoreaux's email invitation

Okie dokie.  First, I'll just show you Lisa's invitation, so you can read it for yourself.  Here goes:
 

Email Subject Line: 
Columbia City Gallery Opening Reception - this Sat.!

Email text:
To All Art Enthusiasts...

Please celebrate with me the opening of the Mixed Media 
show at Columbia City Gallery this Saturday from 5-8 pm 
(4864 Rainier Ave S, 98118).

One of four "featured artists," I will have new work continuing 
on the "Vessel" series and the introduction of a brand new 
theme I am working with called "Constructs of Mind" inspired 
by birdcage imagery.  I can't wait to share it with you! 

Here is a link to my website with directions to the gallery and 
other upcoming events...and soon I'll be announcing classes 
I'm teaching too!

http://www.lisalamoreaux.com/ShowsEvents.html

I hope to see you!

Cheers,
Lisa
www.lisalamoreaux.com

You have received this email as a result of your connection 
to the artist or the artworld.  If you would prefer to not receive 
Lisa's Art News, simply type "remove" in the subject line by 
reply to this email.  Thanks!
 

• In just six sentences, Lisa got in all the basics. 

 
• She made me feel part of her process ("new work," "introduction of a brand new theme," "soon I'll be announcing classes I'm teaching too!").

 
• She made me feel welcome; I felt she really would be happy to see me at the Opening Reception ("please celebrate with me," "I can't wait to share it with you!").

 
• Lisa gave me a reason to visit her website - where in addition to getting directions to this show, I could learn more about her other shows, and her artwork.

 
• When reading the invitation, I could hear Lisa's voice.  Her personality - and enthusiasm - really came through.

 
• And in case I didn't want to get these invitations, Lisa even gave me the opportunity to remove my name from her mailing list.

Wow.  And all that in six sentences!
 

Thanks for the invitation, Lisa.  (And thanks for allowing me to share it with our newsletter readers.)  I can't wait to hear about your next art adventure!