Art Gallery Viewings
People are often confused by when they hear of art gallery viewings. The meaning of this can be confusing because it is used in different ways by different galleries.
Art Gallery Viewings
The word viewing means “looking at” and it is used in several different contexts in our life. A funeral home has viewings. The real estate industry has viewings. In both cases, the idea is that something is going to be looked at, but in one case the viewing is intended only to show respect and in the other it is to sell something. So, people become confused when they hear of art gallery viewings. Is the art intended to be sold or is it simply to be enjoyed and respected.
The answer is that the art can be sold or not depending on the type of viewing and the type of gallery. An art museum might offer a special collection of art that is not normally displayed there and they would refer to it as a “viewing.” In this context, it is intended to be enjoyed and not sold. A commercial art gallery might have a viewing of the works of a struggling new artist and would be most anxious to make some sales. You might read that a particular gallery has “viewings” at certain hours or by appointment.
If you have any true appreciation for art, the use of the word “viewing” makes a great deal of sense. All forms of visual art in intended to be viewed. It is by looking at it and taking in all of the elements of color, line, texture, composition, and theme and experiencing them on an emotional level, that you can really enjoy art. You can not do this by being told about it by another. You are going to have to view it yourself.
Art gallery viewings are an excellent idea for a social activity or a night out. In major cities, there might be two or three viewings or shows available on a Friday night. It might be possible to visit several on a single evening. The majority of art gallery viewings do not charge admission and rely on sales to provide income. Often, complimentary snacks and drinks are provided.
Do not let the terminology throw you off when you are considering a visit to an art gallery. A viewing does not imply a mysterious or ritualistic event. In fact, it is an extremely accurate description of a visit to an art gallery. Viewing art is its purpose. There is a necessary commercial aspect to the business of art and art galleries, but underneath it all is still the love of art.