On the surface, gallery etiquette doesn’t sound like an important topic. But think about it: you’re in a space where you can walk up to any painting and stare at it as long as you want. You might be drawn to one of the pieces more than others.
How do you know when it’s OK to step in for a closer look? Or when that’s not appropriate? Here are tips for behaving well at an art gallery.
Look With Your Eyes and Not With Your Hands
Looking with your eyes and not with your hands is one of the most important gallery etiquette rules. Looking with your hands suggests that you are trying to touch or grab the artwork, which is not only disrespectful but also dangerous. If you must touch something in the gallery, ask the staff first.
Take a Step Back Before Viewing the Artwork
When visiting a gallery, it is important to take a step back and assess the artwork before getting too close. This will help you avoid accidentally disrespecting the piece or the artist. There are a few things to keep in mind when viewing artwork.
First, stand back and take in the overall composition of the piece before getting too close. Observe the colors, textures, and brushstrokes up close only if it is appropriate to do so. Some artists do not want their work to be touched.
Also, be aware of your body and how you’re positioned with the artwork. Avoid blocking other viewers’ lines of sight and give yourself enough space to see the piece.
Finally, respect the artist’s intention for the viewer’s experience. If an artist has installed their work in a certain way, try to view it from that perspective.
Time Yourself
When you visit an art gallery, it is important to be respectful of the artwork and the artist. One way to do this is to time yourself when viewing the artwork.
Some galleries have a limited amount of time that you’re allowed to spend in each room. If you want to stay longer in a particular room, you may need to ask for permission from the gallery staff.
When time yourself, it is also important to be aware of your body language. Avoid crossing your arms or legs, as this can make you appear closed off or uninterested in the artwork. Instead, try to stand or sit in a relaxed position so that you can take in the art around you.
Avoid Making Loud Noises or Disruptive Behavior
When visiting a gallery, it is important to be respectful of the artwork and the other visitors. Making loud noises or disruptive behavior can be distracting and disrespectful. If you need to speak, keep your voice low and avoid talking loudly.
Also, be aware of your body and how much space you are taking up. Do not lean on the artwork or stand too close to other visitors. respect the personal space of others.
Don’t Eat and Drink on Gallery Grounds
You’re at an art gallery to appreciate the art, not to munch on a sandwich and sip wine. But, believe it or not, eating and drinking in an art gallery is considered rude.
Not only can food and drink damage the artwork, but it’s also disruptive to other visitors who are trying to enjoy the exhibits. So, please save your snacks for later and abstain from eating and drinking while you’re exploring the gallery.
Leave the Bulky Bags at Home
When you go to an art gallery, there are certain things you should and shouldn’t bring with you. For one, leave the bulky bags at home. Not only do they take up space and get in the way, but they can also damage the artwork if they’re not stored properly. If you must bring a bag, make sure it’s small and easily manageable.
Turn Off Your Camera’s Flash
If you’re using a flash, turn it off. The light from a flash can be harsh and disruptive, especially in a low-light setting like a gallery. It’s also unnecessary – most modern cameras can take great pictures without a flash.
Put Down Your Phone
In our digital age, it is easy to get lost in our phones. We are constantly checking social media, replying to texts, and playing games. However, when we are out in public, it is important to be present and engage with those around us.
When you are at a gallery or museum, put down your phone and enjoy the experience. Take in the artwork and the atmosphere.
Talk to the people you are with. You may even strike up a conversation with a stranger about the piece you’re both looking at. By being present and engaging with those around you, you will create a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Avoid Making the Art a Photo Backdrop
When viewing art in a gallery, it is important to remember that the artwork should be the focus, not a photo backdrop. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of using the artwork as a backdrop for photos. This can be disrespectful and distracting to other viewers.
If you’re taking photos in a gallery, be sure to avoid making the artwork a backdrop. Instead, take photos from a distance or angle that doesn’t interfere with others’ view of the piece.
