Matthew Bacher’s Survival Tips: Building Meaningful, Organic Connections in the Art World to Engage Art Collectors
- Selfless Art Gallery
- Mar 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 31
Matthew Bacher is an emerging artist whose journey through the art world is defined by a strong commitment to building meaningful connections, embracing new opportunities, and continuously evolving his artistic practice. Drawing from the practices and principles he developed during his MFA studies, Bacher has been able to navigate and shape his path in the industry with intention and purpose. These lessons have informed his approach to collaboration, growth, and creating immersive viewer experiences. Now, Matthew is here to share some of the valuable knowledge he gained with recent graduates of MFA programs, as well as with art collectors looking to understand the process behind an artist’s career development. Here’s what Matthew had to say:
Survival Guide: Matthew Bacher’s Tips for Emerging Artists
• Cultivate meaningful connections both within your program and beyond.
• After graduation, collaborate with your peers to navigate the art world as a collective.
• Step into unfamiliar spaces to broaden your perspective and discover new opportunities.
• Prioritize creating a viewing experience that is engaging, dynamic, and memorable for your audience.
Dos and Don’ts for Creating an Art Portfolio: Do:
• Use High-Quality Images: Ensure your artwork is well-lit and clearly photographed.
• Demonstrate Technical Skill: Showcase a range of works that highlight your proficiency in different mediums and techniques.
• Express Your Unique Voice: Select pieces that reflect your artistic identity and strengths.
Don’t:
• Overload Your Portfolio: Avoid including too many works, as this can dilute the impact of your strongest pieces. • Include Unfinished Work: Only showcase completed pieces that represent your best abilities and artistic vision.
• Ignore Presentation: Make sure your portfolio is organized, visually cohesive, and easy to navigate.
How to Get Noticed by a Gallery
• Research galleries that align with your work.
• Develop relationships with curators and gallery owners by attending events and exhibitions.
• Send a thoughtful email with a concise portfolio and a brief introduction of your artistic practice.
• Stay persistent and follow up—galleries are often busy, and a polite reminder can help keep your work on their radar.
After Midnight (left), Making Out (right),
Oil on Canvas, 68" x 60"ea.
Insights and Reflections from Matthew Bacher
Q: As you mentioned in your survival guide, building connections is essential in the art world. How have you cultivated meaningful relationships within the industry, both during and after your program?
A: I’ve been actively engaging in the communities I want to contribute to. This includes connecting at art openings, meeting with colleagues in various settings, and hosting workshops.
Q: Collaboration can open new doors for artists. In what ways have you worked with peers to navigate and establish yourself in the industry?
A: As an emerging artist working toward a solo show, it can be beneficial to know other artists whose work complements yours in a meaningful way. Sometimes, it makes more sense to propose a group show. Through these settings, relationships are formed.
Tango Lessons, Oil on canvas, 76" x 60"
Q: Stepping outside of familiar spaces can lead to growth. How have you embraced unfamiliar environments to expand your artistic opportunities?
A: Artist residencies have been important to me in this regard. They can be somewhat jarring since you have to reconfigure your life, but they often provide new perspectives on your process as well as new connections.
Q: Art has the power to spark dialogue. How does your work encourage meaningful conversations and create a space for engagement?
A: When I make work, I first think about how I want it to feel, so it’s great when people can connect with it in a way that feels physical. My subjects are often trapped in a suspended state of tension, reflecting the world we live in.
Left to Right: Midnight Brawl, 2024, Oil on canvas, 67" x 60", Installers, 2025, Oil on canvas, 60" x 68",Making Out, Oil on Canvas, 68" x 60"
Q: The viewer’s experience is key to connecting with your work. What approaches do you take to ensure your art remains engaging and immersive?
A: I try to stay engaged throughout the creation process. If I’m not engaged, how can I expect my viewers to be? Sometimes that means changing or adding something in the later stages to make the work less predictable.
Q: Looking ahead, Matthew, what’s next for you? Do you have any exciting exhibitions or projects on the horizon?
A: I will have 5–6 paintings in a show titled Material World, opening in May at Techne Art Center in Oceanside, CA. I will also be participating in Other Places Art Fair South, which is happening in September in Escondido, CA. I have other shows planned for the year as well!
As Matthew continues to grow and evolve in his artistic practice, his journey serves as an inspiring example for emerging artists. The insights and advice he’s shared from his own experience provide valuable guidance for those looking to make their mark in the art world. We hope his reflections will help illuminate the path for the next generation of artists. Stay tuned for what’s to come from Matthew Bacher—his story is just beginning.
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