Breaking into the gallery world can feel opaque, intimidating, and often frustrating for artists trying to navigate it.
What do galleries actually look for when reviewing submissions?
Why do some portfolios catch attention while others are ignored?
And what simple mistakes can quietly close doors before a conversation even begins?
To shed light on these questions, we recorded an OffStudio podcast conversation at Abbozzo Gallery in Toronto, where artist and interviewer Kris Lodu sits down with Blake Zigrossi — Associate Director of Abbozzo Gallery and co-founder of Artist Ally — to offer insider perspective on how artists can approach galleries with clarity, professionalism, and strategy.
Having reviewed hundreds of artist portfolios and submissions throughout his career, Blake offers a practical look at how gallerists evaluate new work and what signals that an artist is ready for a professional gallery relationship.
Rather than relying on myths or assumptions about the art world, this guide focuses on the real factors that help artists get noticed.
Topics include:
What curators look for when reviewing portfolios
Best practices when approaching galleries
The importance of research and professionalism
The everyday life of a gallery manager
💡 Insight: Building an art career isn’t only about making great work. It’s also about understanding the ecosystem around your practice — and learning how to navigate it with intention.
🎧 Listen to the episode ⤵
This OffStudio episode is meant to help artists approach galleries with more confidence, professionalism, and awareness of how the system works from the inside.
The Gallery Radar Checklist ✓
Before approaching a gallery, make sure your submission answers the basic questions a gallerist needs to evaluate your work quickly.
Clear Artwork Documentation
High-quality images that are easy to view and scroll through. Each work should include the essential details: title, medium, year, and size.Organized Portfolio Structure
Group works by series, medium, or year so the evolution of your practice becomes visible at a glance.An Up-to-Date CV
Include exhibitions, education, awards, residencies, and publications. Even smaller exhibitions demonstrate commitment to your practice.A Navigable Website or PDF Portfolio
The easier it is for a gallerist to understand your work, the more likely they are to keep exploring.Gallery Alignment
Research the gallery before submitting. Make sure your work aligns with their artists, aesthetics, and exhibition program.A Thoughtful Introduction
Address the gallery director or curator by name and briefly explain why you’re reaching out to that specific gallery.Presence in the Scene
Attend openings, talks, and art events. Familiarity matters—people tend to engage more easily with artists they recognize.
OffStudio — Artist Ally Podcast
OffStudio is a podcast by Artist Ally, where artists, curators, and cultural practitioners share honest stories about building creative lives with purpose, strategy, and authenticity.
Subscribe to the Artist Ally Circle to receive monthly drops of wisdom, benefits, templates, maps, and opportunities directly in your inbox.
