Contemporary fine art photography: How to Meet a Curator Tips

How do you meet a curator as a fine art photographer?  Here are a few tips, from my experience:

1. Call them.  It sounds simple, but it usually works.  Be ready for them to pick up the phone too since curators are much more accessible than gallerists.   Its their job too.  Call curators only after understanding their interests and if you have something to say–such as a new body of work, a show invite or something else of note.
2. Be ready.  That means have a cohesive strong portfolio of work that either has been shown or you’ve at least gotten feedback on from other artists or teachers.
3. Make the appointment.  This may take some time to develop a relationship, like with anything, but invite them to see your work or ask to drop by with photos.
4. Followup.  Send a thank you note, and keep in touch.  If they say to send more work, then do it.  If they have seemingly little interest, then politely and professionally thank them too.  Never burn bridges because you never know when someone will show up else where.

Its a hard process but photography curators are easier to approach than you might think.