One More Lesson: Get a Contract!
I’ve learned another lesson in my artistic journey.
For almost two months the group of 4 Painters exhibited in the public spaces of the Inn at the Falls in Bracebridge, Ontario. The art brought a fresh, new look to the ageing Inn and received positive feedback from the staff and guests.
Our arrangement began with a verbal ‘handshake’ in order to meet the Inn’s installation deadline of November 30. We left certain requests on the table to be addressed later. Since that date, we met with the owners but were unable to agree on the terms of our exhibit. As a result we removed our paintings on January 25.
The time and effort spent writing up and revising an agreement could be seen as a waste, however, we learned a great deal from the negotiation process. We now have a document we can adapt to different venues and situations.
But the most important part of the experience for those of us on both sides of this experience is this. First, be clear about what each party wants and needs. Then put those details in writing before moving ahead.
Wendie Donabie © 2013
- Posted in: Agreement ♦ Art ♦ Art Business ♦ Art Show ♦ Artwork ♦ Bracebridge ♦ Contract ♦ Creativity ♦ Muskoka ♦ Painting ♦ Paintings for Sale
- Tagged: Agreement, Art, Art Business, Art Exhibit, Art Show, Bracebridge, Bracebridge Ontario, Contract, Painting, Paintings for Sale, Visual Arts
Blue Heron Writes 
Art is much more than mere decoration and I agree that a contract with a clear set of terms is required prior to a hanging. I’ve learned certain lessons as well. The group of four will certainly benefit from that unpleasant experience.
Hi Wendi,
I’ve been reading and enjoying your blogs.
I felt a profound sense of sadness over the loss of Joyce.
I thoroughly enjoyed and shared with a friend the video clip of Neil Gaiman.
I also enjoyed viewing your art and seeing your growth as an artist and a person……
the two are intertwined as one aren’t they?
Hopefully one day I will see your art in person and enjoy visiting you my friend.
I also discovered another blogger through following your blogs,
that blogger is ‘Not The Singer’.
She’s on the ball, isn’t she?
Reblogged this on DesArtsUK and commented:
Always draft and sign a contract to support a ‘Gentlemen’ agreement…