Frequently asked questions
1. What types of events and opportunities are available for artists to display their work?
There are many opportunities for artists to display their work here at Blue Line Arts. We have open calls for shows throughout the year always on our website. Artist members are eligible for waived entry fees on almost all calls for art. Examples of annual calls for art that are free for members include:
- Off Center - An International Ceramics Competition
- On the Rise
- 30x30
- Handheld for the Holidays
These calls for non-members would be a non-refundable entry fee anywhere from $25 to $45 per call. Therefore it is highly recommended that artists become members here at Blue Line Arts so they can enjoy free entry fees for a yearly $75 membership cost.
There are also designated exhibitions for members, such as our yearly Membership Medley, where artists who have current memberships with the gallery are guaranteed one artwork juried into the show with their application. Another is our Art at Work Program, which has a rolling deadline that allows artists to present their work in civic buildings across Roseville. Most of the information about Blue Line’s events and opportunities will come from our call to artists page and events calendar. We recommend that artists subscribe to our email newsletter, follow us on social media platforms, and become a member in order to be the most up to date on what events are happening within the gallery. Blue Line Arts Events Calendar
2. Are there opportunities to network with other artists and collectors in the area here at Blue Line Arts?
Yes, we are all about community! One great way to get connected with other artists in the area here at Blue Line Arts is through our monthly 3rd Saturday Receptions. These receptions are free and open to the public, making them a wonderful opportunity where artists, community members, and collectors gather to learn more about the different artists whose artwork is on display within the gallery. Additionally, there is also the Artist 2 Artist meetup which allows for artists to share with others about their artwork and upcoming projects, as well as provide feedback for others, all while creating art based on a monthly medium theme. Artist 2 Artist Meetup – Blue Line Arts
3. Are there opportunities for artists to take classes or workshops at Blue Line Arts?
Yes! Throughout the year we offer workshops through the SCG program which happens twice a year. Through this program, Artists in Residence teach workshops within their medium, which can range from painting to textile to collage.
We also have a wide array of camps and programs that are offered for youth through spring, summer, and winter breaks, as well as family activity days that happen once a month. We also offer teaching opportunities for these camps and programs, which you can learn more about and apply for here. Contact our Programs Manager with any questions.
4. How are artworks priced in the gallery?
Here at Blue Line Arts, artists are in full control of their
own prices. Typically, artists gauge their artwork prices based on the time and effort that was put into making the art piece, the rarity and price of the materials they used, and the overall size of the completed artwork. Other pricing factors could be based on what the market looks like with similar artworks, as well as additional costs for studio spaces, shipping, and framing. If you are an artist and curious about feedback on how to price your work, please contact the gallery and a member of our team can provide suggestions.
5. What is the rate of commission for new artists?
At Blue Line Arts, there is an even 50/50 split for artists who are not members with us. However, it is highly encouraged to become a member in order to receive all the benefits Blue Line has to offer. Some of these benefits include a 60/40 commission split for only $75/year, guaranteed acceptance in our yearly Membership Medley exhibition, as well as a 20% discount on adult workshops and classes! For more information about the benefits of becoming a member, visit our membership page-- Membership – Support & Join! – Blue Line Arts
6.What does the application process look like?
Blue Line Arts lists all of its call for artist applications on call for entry (CaFÉ). Artists have to make an account in order to access the entry platform. We have chosen this platform because it is widely used by artists and organizations in the area, and presents multiple different opportunities for artists to display their artwork.
CaFE has their own unique artwork upload process which can be confusing for some artists. For help on submitting your work to a call, you can browse the CaFE help page linked here.
Once your application is submitted, the prospectus should include a notification date which is the day you will hear back about if your work was selected or not. During this waiting period, Blue Line Arts facilitates a jurying process in which either the organization or an outside juror picks the pieces to be featured in the show. On the notification date, you should receive an email of acceptance or rejection. If the notification date has passed and you have not heard anything, it is advised to check your spam inbox or call the gallery at (916) 783-4117.
7. What are the application requirements to submit an artwork?
The application requirements are posted on each of the call’s prospectus on our website and can vary from call to call. Most calls tend to request for individuals 18 and up. However there is a call for art, “On the Rise”, for ages 14 to 24 that is held once a year.
Artwork images in your application must be JPG format and be about 1 to 3mb in size. Most artists tend to use applications like Adobe Photoshop and Canva in order to get their image files to match the requirements.
It is important to read the entire prospectus before applying in order to ensure you meet every requirement because they can vary widely depending on if a call is regional, national, or international, as well as intended for a specific medium or not.
8. Can I apply to multiple calls and can I submit multiple works?
Yes, and it is encouraged! But note, please keep track of your artwork inventory, emails received, and the deadlines and due dates for each call and exhibition date. As for submitting multiple works, it depends on the call. Please read the instructions provided carefully. Some may only ask for one while others may ask for up to ten.
9.What happens after I submit my work?
Make sure to keep track of the deadlines listed on the application form into your own calendar. After your application is submitted, there will be a period of time where the juror will select the work. During this time, keep an eye out for emails. If it is past the notification date and you have not received new information, make sure to check spam emails and notify us if there is an issue.
10. What happens when my work sells?
When a work sells, our Gallery Coordinator will contact you with next steps such as providing a W-9 form and details about your commission check. The checks are sent out within 30 days of the end of the show and with the check, we include copies of the invoices of the sales.
Additionally, we also give the art collectors the opportunity to share their contact information with the artists.
If the buyer chooses to share their contact information, it is highly encouraged to add this to your own list of contacts. By adding your new art collector’s information into your own list, asking them if they are interested in subscribing to your newsletter, and sending them a thank you card, you have an opportunity to build a strong relationship with a new collector.
stay connected
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Get involved in the rich local arts community by joining as a member. Artist members receive wavied entry fees on almost all calls for art, exclusive admission to our annual Member's Bash, as well as many other perks. Learn more and join at the button below!
