For this webinar, we’re joined by MRDVMO, an artist who has taken an interesting route into showing his work in both traditional and unconventional spaces. In this conversation, he shares what it was like to exhibit at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, and what he learned from the experience.
For artists wondering how to get art in a gallery, his story is a good reminder that there isn’t just one path. Opportunities can come from galleries, festivals, themed exhibitions, or special events. The key is to stay prepared and pay attention to spaces that fit your work. If you’re planning to show prints, Lumaprints’ guide to preparing your image file for print is a helpful place to start.
Watch the full webinar: How to Get Art in a Gallery with MRDVMO
Meet the Artist: MRDVMO
Before we get into MRDVMO’s gallery experience, let’s first get to know the artist behind the work. David (aka MRDVMO) is an illustrator and writer with a growing library of work. It began as a hobby, but his interest in making art grew more serious.
In 2020 he began actively looking for the opportunity to participate in galleries and exhibitions, an important step in his growth as an artist.
The Unique Gallery Experience
MRDVMO’s story takes us to Knott’s Berry Farm, a well-known theme park in California. The gallery, called “Into the Fog,” is tied to Knott’s Scary Farm and gives both local and national artists a chance to submit, display, and sell their work, including prints.
Because the show is Halloween-themed, it offers a very different setting from a traditional gallery. It also proves that gallery opportunities for artists can show up in places you might not immediately think of.
The Path to the Gallery
MRDVMO first discovered an open call for artists in 2020. He submitted his work but wasn’t selected. But he didn’t stop there, he kept looking for new opportunities.
Persistence eventually paid off and he was invited to take part in another art show at Knott’s Berry Farm during the Boysenberry Festival in 2023.
When working on art gallery submissions, it’s helpful to really look at what the gallery is asking for. Check the theme, deadlines, artwork requirements, and whether your work feels like a good fit. A rejection from one show does not mean your work will not be right for another. Artists can also browse the NYFA Artist Opportunities page to find open calls and other opportunities.
Showcasing Art: Prints and Exclusive Runs
At “Into the Fog,” MRDVMO decided to offer prints of his work. Rather than printing a large quantity, he created a limited run of only 10 pieces, including one exclusive print.
The response surprised him. The prints sold out within the first two weeks of the exhibition. For an artist testing a new audience, this kind of smaller print run can be a practical way to see what buyers respond to without producing more inventory than necessary.
The Impact of Exclusivity
The limited number of prints also played a part in how buyers responded. Once people realized only a few were available, some contacted MRDVMO to ask whether they could purchase more.
That sense of scarcity can help make a print feel more special. Still, limited editions need to be priced carefully. Printing costs, gallery commissions, packaging, and the number of prints produced should all be considered. Lumaprints’ guide to pricing art prints offers more guidance on setting prices.
MRDVMO wasn’t sure how his work would be received, especially because he was entering a new audience as a relatively unknown artist. His work, however, quickly attracted attention.
He also noticed that Knott’s Berry Farm did not promote the gallery as heavily as he expected. Instead, much of the exposure came from travel bloggers, influencers, and word of mouth.
For artists, that is a useful reminder not to depend entirely on the venue for promotion. Sharing the event with your own audience can help more people discover both the show and your work.
Expanding Artistic Horizons
MRDVMO’s experience with galleries goes beyond theme parks. He has also taken part in online projects, including work connected with MOZAIK Philanthropy, which focuses on social issues.
His writing and artwork were featured together in a digital publication. He has also shown work in other physical spaces, including arcade-themed exhibitions, giving him the chance to reach different types of audiences.
A Future in Prints
MRDVMO continues to explore the potential of selling prints. He plans to create more accessible pieces for a wider audience while also building his presence online.
His experience shows that learning how to get art in a gallery is not only about sending out submissions. Artists also need to keep creating, stay visible, build a strong portfolio, and be ready when a good opportunity appears.
Where to Find MRDVMO’s Art
If you’d like to see more of MRDVMO’s work or follow his creative process, you can find him on Instagram at @MRDVMO.
At the time of the original webinar, his work was being shown through Knott’s Berry Farm exhibitions. For his latest artwork, exhibitions, and upcoming projects, Instagram is the best place to follow his updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my art into a gallery?
Start by researching galleries that show work similar to yours. Follow their submission instructions and prepare clear, professional images of your artwork.
Where can artists find gallery opportunities?
Look at gallery websites, local art organizations, festivals, juried shows, and reputable artist opportunity boards.
What should I include in an art gallery submission?
Most galleries ask for artwork images, titles, sizes, medium, pricing, and a short artist bio or statement.
Should I apply again after being rejected?
Yes. One rejection does not mean your work is not good enough. Another show may be a better fit.
Can I sell prints in a gallery?
Yes, if the gallery allows it. Prints can give buyers another way to collect your work, especially when original pieces are priced higher.
Prepare for Your Next Gallery Opportunity
Getting your work into a gallery often takes patience. Keep your portfolio updated, read submission guidelines carefully, and continue looking for opportunities that genuinely fit your style.
For more artist interviews, printing advice, and practical resources, explore the Lumaprints webinars.
You can also watch the full MRDVMO gallery webinar on YouTube to hear more about his experience in his own words.
