Art Exhibition Pricing: What You Really Need to Know

When you think about putting on an art exhibition, a curated display of artworks intended for public viewing, often in galleries or cultural spaces. Also known as art show, it’s more than just hanging paintings on walls—it’s a financial and logistical operation. Many artists assume galleries cover everything, but that’s not how it usually works. In reality, gallery fees, costs artists pay to exhibit in commercial or nonprofit spaces, sometimes as a percentage of sales or flat rental fee can range from $500 to $10,000+, depending on location, prestige, and duration. Even if a gallery doesn’t charge upfront, they often take 40–60% of sales, which directly affects your bottom line.

Then there’s the exhibition space rental, the direct cost of securing a physical venue for your show, whether it’s a downtown gallery, community center, or pop-up loft. In major cities like Mumbai or Delhi, renting a small gallery for two weeks can cost $2,000–$8,000. Outside urban centers, you might find spaces for $500–$1,500, but you’ll likely handle more setup yourself. Don’t forget artist exhibition costs, the full list of expenses artists incur to mount a show, including printing, lighting, framing, insurance, and promotional materials. A single high-quality art print for promotional use can run $100–$300. Lighting setups? Another $300–$1,200. Insurance for valuable pieces? Often required—and it’s not cheap. One artist we spoke to spent $4,700 total on her first solo show, and only sold three pieces. That’s not failure—it’s reality.

Some galleries offer ‘pay-to-play’ models, especially in emerging art hubs, where they charge artists to participate in group shows. Others work on commission only. The key is asking the right questions before signing anything: What’s included? Who handles marketing? Do you get a printed catalog? Is there a reception? How long does the show run? If you’re new, start small. A pop-up in a café or bookstore might cost $200 and still reach the right audience. You don’t need a white cube to make an impact.

What you’ll find below are real-world breakdowns from artists and galleries across India and beyond. We’ve pulled data from posts that cover everything from how to price your work for group shows to what galleries actually look for before letting you in. You’ll see what’s working in 2025, what’s overpriced, and what you can skip without losing credibility. No theory. No fluff. Just what you need to plan, budget, and execute your next exhibition without getting blindsided.