Art shows can be held in a variety of venues, ranging far beyond the traditional gallery space. Outdoor art shows serve as a relaxing environment in which to view work, while typically allowing for more space and creativity in terms of the setup. When art is set up outdoors, canopies are often used as a protective covering for both the art and the audience. Art can be displayed in an outdoor canopy in a few different ways.
Wall Space
Most outdoor canopies have sturdy wall space that the art can be secured to, just as in a traditional gallery. While nails cannot be used, extra strength double-sided adhesive can attach frames and prints to the canopy's walls with ease. You can set the work up in a linear fashion, setting them side by side along the inside of the tent, or you can create clusters, covering the canopy's entire wall space.
Easels
Easels serve as a hassle free and creative way to display work. Ask all participating artists to bring in easels, or borrow them from a local high school or art group. Place them around the walls of the tent or in the style of a path for patrons to walk through. You can simply set the art on the easel's edge, framed or unframed. You might also paint the easels to suit a particular color scheme, something that can be accomplished quickly with spray paints.
Tables
Using tables to display art makes for an easy setup, while the pieces are accessible to the public. Gather some tables from friends and family, or rent some from a local recreation hall. Place them directly against the canopy's interior walls. You can then set the artwork on the table, leaning pieces upright on the walls. Take further advantage of the table space by taping the details of each piece in front of the art.
Dividers
Dividers are common for all types of art shows and exhibits. They can be purchased or even rented from an art store, or you can create your own with standing poster board. Set them up in varying areas around the tent so that visitors can easily walk about and view the work in sections. Place like pieces and series on the inside of the same divider.
Tags: from local, Place them, traditional gallery, view work, wall space
