How to Write a Press Release for an Art Exhibition

Why Write a Press Release for Your Art Exhibition

Are you planning an art exhibition or an art show and want to spread the word?

A well-crafted press release can be your best friend! It helps you share the exciting news about your event with the media and art lovers alike.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of writing an effective press release for your art exhibition. You’ll learn how to catch the attention of journalists and provide all the essential details that encourage people to visit your show.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or hosting your first exhibition, these tips will help you communicate your artistic showcase effectively and professionally.

Table of Contents
The Beginner’s Guide to Writing a Press Release for an Art Exhibits or Art Show
Art Exhibition Press Release Templates
Art Exhibition Press Release Samples
Tips to Increase The Quality of Your Press Release
Distributing Your Press Release
Creating and Distributing Your Art Exhibition Press Release
What Are You Announcing? Examples and Templates by Type of Press Release
Press Release Examples Across Several Industries

Press releases make money

The Beginner’s Guide to Writing a Press Release for an Art Exhibits or Art Show

Writing a press release is not the same as writing an email or blog post. There’s a very specific format for press releases that you should follow.

Here’s a description of each element you should include in yours:

Headline and Subheading

Start your press release with a clear and attention-grabbing headline. It should summarize the main event or feature of your exhibition. For example, “Vibrant Horizons: Exploring Modern Landscape Art”. Directly beneath the headline, include a subheading that provides additional detail or a compelling fact to intrigue the reader, like “Featuring Award-Winning Artists from Around the Globe”.

Date and Location Line

This line shows when and where the press release is being written and when the information can be released to the public. A typical dateline may read: New York: June 1, 20XX.

Introduction Paragraph

Your first paragraph should answer the who, what, when, where, and why of your exhibition. Keep it concise but informative. For instance: “This May, City Art Gallery presents ‘Vibrant Horizons’, a captivating showcase of modern landscape paintings by internationally recognized artists. This month-long exhibition will open with a reception on May 15, 20XX, and features works that reinterpret traditional landscapes through bold colors and innovative techniques.”

Body Paragraphs

The next section of your press release should dive deeper into details. Discuss the themes of the exhibition, highlight key artists or pieces, and mention any special events related to the exhibition, like artist talks or workshops. Use simple sentences and avoid jargon: “The exhibition will highlight the work of Jane Doe, a Pulitzer Prize-winning painter known for her vibrant use of color and texture that challenges our perception of natural scenery.”

Quotes

Include a quote from a key figure involved in the exhibition, such as the curator or a featured artist. This personal touch adds credibility and depth to your press release. Make sure the quote reflects enthusiasm and insight: “‘Vibrant Horizons’ offers a fresh perspective on landscapes, inviting viewers to engage in a visual dialogue about nature and art,” says John Smith, curator of the exhibition.

Call to Action

Encourage people to visit the exhibition with a clear call to action. This could be an invitation to the opening reception, a prompt to check out the gallery website for more information, or an encouragement to visit while the exhibit is on. Example: “Join us at the opening reception to experience these transformative works first-hand and meet the artists behind them.”

Boilerplate

End your press release with a boilerplate—a short paragraph about the gallery hosting the exhibition and the artist. Include basic information like the gallery’s history, its mission, and types of exhibitions it generally hosts. This context helps readers who might not be familiar with your gallery: “City Art Gallery has been a cornerstone of the Downtown arts community since 1998, featuring eclectic monthly exhibitions that showcase both emerging and established artists.”

Contact Information

Finally, make sure your press release includes contact information. Provide the name, phone number, and email address of the person who can be contacted for more information about the exhibition. This is crucial for journalists or guests who may have questions or need further details.

Let us write press releases for you

Art Exhibition Press Release Templates

We know it’s always easier to write something when you have a template, so here are several of them, each addressing different types of exhibitions, to give you ideas as you write your own.

Note, the bold elements in these templates are provided to show you the different elements of the template. You should not include the bolded words in your actual press release!

Headline: Celebrating Contrast: The Art of Emma Lin
Subheading: An Immersive Solo Exhibition by Critically Acclaimed Painter Emma Lin
Date & Location: Opening Night: June 3, 20XX, at Downtown Art Gallery, New York

Introduction:
Join us at Downtown Art Gallery for the unveiling of “Celebrating Contrast,” a compelling new collection by Emma Lin. The exhibition opens on June 3, 20XX, and runs through July 5, featuring a stunning array of paintings that explore the beauty of opposites.

Body Paragraphs:
Emma Lin has captivated audiences worldwide with her unique ability to blend traditional techniques with modern themes. “Celebrating Contrast” focuses on the juxtaposition of light and dark, showcasing over 30 works that highlight the drama of these extremes. Visitors can also attend a live painting session and Q&A with Emma on June 10.

Quote:
“Art is a dialogue, and through ‘Celebrating Contrast,’ I hope to spark conversations about the nuances that define our reality,” says Emma Lin.

Call to Action:
Don’t miss this mesmerizing display of talent. Visit Downtown Art Gallery this June and experience the world through Emma Lin’s eyes. For more details and event updates, please visit our website.

Boilerplate:
Downtown Art Gallery has been a celebrated venue in New York’s art scene since 2000, dedicated to showcasing innovative artists and diverse artistic expressions.
Contact Information:

Contact: Jane Doe, Gallery Manager
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: [email protected]

Template 2: Group Art Show Press Release

Headline: Fusion of Horizons: A Group Exhibition at Horizon Gallery
Subheading: Experience a Diverse Range of Artistic Expressions This Summer
Date & Location: Starts July 20, 20XX, at Horizon Gallery, San Francisco

Introduction:
This summer, Horizon Gallery is proud to present “Fusion of Horizons,” an eclectic group art show featuring works from ten dynamic artists. Opening July 20, 20XX, the exhibition explores the convergence of cultural and personal narratives in contemporary art.

Body Paragraphs:
“Fusion of Horizons” brings together a variety of mediums—painting, sculpture, and digital art—to create a cohesive yet diverse display. Highlights include a sculptural installation by renowned artist Mark Wei and a digital art performance by emerging talent Lisa Rey. Special events include artist-led workshops and panel discussions throughout the duration of the show.

Quote:
“‘Fusion of Horizons’ is about showing how diverse experiences can lead to profound artistic collaboration and understanding,” comments Alex Chen, curator of the exhibition.

Call to Action:
Visit Horizon Gallery to see “Fusion of Horizons” and engage with the artists and their creations. Check our website for a full schedule of events and exhibition details.

Boilerplate:
Established in 1995, Horizon Gallery is a leader in San Francisco’s art community, dedicated to presenting groundbreaking exhibitions that challenge and inspire.

Contact Information:
Contact: Sarah Lee, Public Relations
Phone: (321) 654-9872
Email: [email protected]

Template 3: Thematic Exhibition Press Release

Headline: Shadows and Whispers: Exploring the Intangible in Art
Subheading: A Thematic Exhibition at ModernArt Space
Date & Location: Exhibition Runs August 15 – October 10, 20XX, at ModernArt Space, Chicago

Introduction:
ModernArt Space invites you to explore “Shadows and Whispers,” an evocative thematic exhibition that delves into the subtle and often overlooked aspects of our existence. The exhibition features a curated selection of works by five international artists and opens on August 15, 20XX.

Body Paragraphs:
“Shadows and Whispers” examines themes of silence, absence, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. The exhibition includes powerful installations by Sofia Ibarra and thought-provoking photography by Tom Harford. Visitors can participate in a series of interactive sessions and talks aimed at uncovering deeper meanings within the art.

Quote:
“This exhibition challenges us to find beauty and meaning in the shadows and whispers of our world,” states Mia Foster, director of ModernArt Space.

Call to Action:
Join us at ModernArt Space for a journey into the intangible. Experience art that makes you look closer and think deeper. Visit our website for more information and event registration.

Boilerplate:
ModernArt Space, located in the heart of Chicago, is dedicated to presenting contemporary art that engages and inspires a diverse audience.

Contact Information:
Contact: Tom Johnson, Events Coordinator
Phone: (456) 123-7890
Email: [email protected]

Template #4: Museum Art Exhibition Press Release

Headline: Timeless Echoes: Journey Through Classical Art
Subheading: A New Exhibition at the Grand Museum Featuring Masterpieces from Antiquity to Renaissance
Date & Location: Opens September 5, 20XX, at The Grand Museum, Boston

Introduction:
The Grand Museum proudly announces the opening of “Timeless Echoes,” a spectacular exhibition that traces the evolution of classical art from ancient Greece to the Renaissance. The exhibition opens on September 5, 20XX, and offers an unparalleled collection of artworks that have shaped the foundations of Western art.

Body Paragraphs:
“Timeless Echoes” features over 100 iconic works, including sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts, some of which are on loan from the world’s most prestigious museums. Highlights include a rare 5th-century BC Greek amphora and Leonardo da Vinci’s early sketches. In addition to self-guided tours, the museum offers guided tours every weekend, led by our expert historians, to provide deeper insights into the historical and cultural contexts of the artworks.

Quote:
“Our aim with ‘Timeless Echoes’ is to connect people across time through the universal language of art. These works not only display aesthetic excellence but also convey the rich narratives and philosophies of their times,” explains Dr. Elizabeth Nguyen, Director of The Grand Museum.

Call to Action:
We invite all art lovers and history enthusiasts to join us in exploring these timeless treasures. Whether you’re a scholar, student, or simply curious, ‘Timeless Echoes’ promises to enrich your understanding of classical art. For tickets and more information, please visit our website.

Boilerplate:
The Grand Museum has been a cornerstone in Boston’s cultural landscape since 1895, renowned for its extensive collection that spans across continents and centuries. The museum is committed to fostering an appreciation for the arts through exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach

Contact Information:
Contact: Michael Roberts, Communications Officer
Phone: (789) 456-1230
Email: [email protected]

These templates are examples to show you how you might want to write your press release. Keep in mind the following as you do so:

  1. They should be personalized to fit your specific art exhibition.
  2. The bold lines are to help you understand each element. They should not be included in your press release’s copy.
  3. Even though each of these templates shows a single Body Paragraph, most press releases have multiple body paragraphs, including a quote within one or two of them.

Art Exhibition Press Release Samples

Here are several real examples of press releases promoting art exhibitions to give you even more ideas:

Museum Art Exhibit Press Release Example

Art Gallery Press Release Example

Press Release Announcing Museum Exhibitions for the Year

Tips to Increase The Quality of Your Press Release

Great, now you’ve got the basics down, here are some tips to enhance the quality of your art exhibition’s press release:

  1. Use Clear and Compelling Language: Keep your language simple and direct. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences that might confuse readers.
  2. Make It Visually Appealing: Use formatting tools like bold headers, bullet points, and short paragraphs to make the press release easy to scan and read.
  3. Emphasize Unique Points: Highlight what makes your exhibition unique. Whether it’s an exclusive piece, a renowned artist, or a unique theme, make these elements stand out.
  4. Include High-Quality Images: Attach one or two high-resolution images of key artworks or the venue to capture interest and give a visual taste of what to expect.
  5. Proofread Carefully: Errors can undermine your credibility. Proofread your press release multiple times, or have another person review it to catch any grammar or spelling mistakes.
  6. Optimize for SEO: If your press release will be published online, include relevant keywords about the exhibition, artists, or art style to help improve its visibility in search results.
  7. Target the Right Audience: Make sure your language and content resonate with your target audience, whether they are art critics, general art lovers, or potential buyers.
  8. Follow Up with Media Contacts: After sending out your press release, follow up with key journalists and influencers who might be interested in covering the exhibition.
  9. Use Quotes Effectively: Include engaging and insightful quotes from artists or curators that add depth to the narrative of your exhibition.
  10. Check the Timing: Release your press release at an optimal time, generally 2-4 weeks before the event, to give media outlets enough time to cover your exhibition and people to plan their visit.
  11. Include All Necessary Details: While you’ve covered what to include, double-check that essential information like the date, time, and venue are correct and clearly visible.
  12. Maintain a Consistent Tone: Ensure the tone of your press release matches the nature of the exhibition and your gallery or museum’s branding.

By following these tips, your press release can effectively capture the attention of your intended audience and generate excitement about your art exhibition.

Distributing Your Press Release

Now that you’ve created a masterpiece of a press release that equals the quality of the art you’re exhibiting, let’s talk about distributing your press release.

You could do what most people do – send it out to the local media, cross your fingers, and hope something happens.

Or you can use a press release distribution service like eReleases.com to send it out. Doing so can greatly increase the reach and impact of your press release. Here’s why you might want to use such a service:

  1. Wider Reach: Distribution services have extensive networks that include journalists, media outlets, and online platforms. This means your press release can reach a much larger and more diverse audience than you might manage on your own.
  2. Targeted Distribution: These services allow you to target specific industries, geographic areas, and even demographics. This ensures that your press release reaches the most relevant and interested parties, increasing the likelihood of coverage.
  3. Time-Saving: Sending out a press release manually to a large number of outlets can be very time-consuming. A distribution service streamlines this process, letting you focus on other important tasks related to your exhibition.
  4. Professional Presentation: Press release distribution services are experts in formatting and presenting information in a way that appeals to media professionals. This professional presentation can boost the credibility of your release.
  5. Tracking and Reporting: After your press release is distributed, these services often provide detailed reports on its reach and impact, including how many people viewed it, where it was published, and other valuable metrics.

Using a service like eReleases.com simplifies the process of sending out a press release and enhances the chances of your exhibition gaining significant attention and attendance.

Creating and Distributing Your Art Exhibition Press Release

Crafting a well-structured and engaging press release for your art exhibition is a crucial step in ensuring its success.

By following the outlined tips and utilizing a professional distribution service like eReleases.com, you can significantly enhance the visibility and impact of your event. These strategies not only help attract a larger audience but also engage media outlets and art enthusiasts in a meaningful way.

Remember, a great press release communicates the unique value of your exhibition compellingly and concisely, making it an indispensable tool in your promotional arsenal. So, take the time to perfect your press release, leverage the right distribution channels, and prepare for a successful exhibition opening.

What Are You Announcing? Examples and Templates by Type of Press Release

  1. Launching a New Product
  2. Launching a Product Improvement
  3. An Event
  4. A Grand Opening
  5. Achievement of a Major Milestone
  6. Receipt of an Award or Recognition
  7. A New Hire or Promotion
  8. Dealing with a Crisis
  9. A Partnership With Another Organization
  10. An Acquisition or Merger
  11. Social Cause Activities
  12. Release of a New Book
  13. Political Campaign Activities
  14. Music-Related Announcement
  15. School/University Announcements
  16. Media, Network, and Local Station Announcements
  17. Nonprofit Announcements
  18. Announce an Art Exhibition
  19. Press Release for A Movie

Press Release Examples Across Several Industries

advertising marketing iconAdvertising & Marketing Press Release Examplesautomobile iconAutomotive Press Release Examples
Art Press Release Examplesbank iconBanking & Financial Services Press Release Examples
books iconBooks Press Release Examplesbusiness iconBusiness Press Release Examples
electronics iconConsumer Electronics Press Release Exampleseducation iconEducation Press Release Examples
environment iconEnvironment & Ecology Press Release Examplesfashion iconFashion Press Release Examples
fitness iconFitness Press Release Examplesfood iconFood & Beverage Press Release Examples
government iconGovernment Press Release Exampleshealthcare iconHealthcare Press Release Examples
hotel iconHotel Press Release Examplesinternet iconInternet Technology Press Release Examples
investment iconInvestments Press Release Exampleslaw firm iconLaw Firm Press Release Examples
personal finance iconPersonal Finance Press Release Examplespets iconPets Press Release Examples
real estate iconReal Estate Press Release Examplesretailing iconRetailing Press Release Examples
seniors iconSeniors Press Release Examplessoftware iconSoftware Press Release Examples
sports iconSports Press Release Examplestransportation iconTransportation & Trucking Press Release Examples
travel iconTravel Press Release Examples
hate writing press releases

Finally, here are some tips and training to help you write an amazing press release:

Additional Press Release Resources

Get real ROI on your press release, plus save 30% on your first order.