Galleries are open again, hooray! While we’re so excited to exit those viewing rooms and see art IRL, we’re going to be honest, we do feel a little nervous about it. After so much time in and out of lockdown, gallery hopping is making us feel a little more anxious than usual. Not sure what to expect when you return to your favourite galleries? Here’s how to behave post covid.
Book Ahead
Most galleries are operating an appointment system nowadays which you can simply arrange using an online booking portal. And, even if they’re not, it’s a good idea to email and double check that it’s OK to visit anyway. It’s good courtesy to let the gallery know that you’re coming, and you can also use this opportunity to ask what covid procedures they have in place if you are nervous about making a trip.
Bring Your Mask
Masks are here to stay, so make sure you’re wearing it on your next gallery run. As much as they’re annoying, they really do make most of us feel safe. But you can be creative with it! Pick a mask that goes with your outfit or support your favourite artists by wearing their work on your face.
Sanitize
When you enter the gallery, make sure you use the sanitizer that they’re likely to have positioned at the door. It’s there for a reason, and it’s a good idea to follow the hints that they are leaving for you around the space.
Take Your Time
Perhaps the gallery is a little busy when you make your trip. While you might want to rush around the space, please be mindful of others. Take your time as you admire the artworks and keep your distance. Making others uncomfortable by your presence is not going to help anyone. Besides, after spending so much time away from galleries, it’s good to soak up all that art in the flesh.
Don’t Come In A Big Group
We know you’re desperate to see your art squad again, but meeting in a big group inside an enclosed gallery space is not the place to do that just yet. We don’t want to make others nervous, so meet your pals in a park afterwards and swap your gossip about your favourite artists in the fresh air later!
If You’re Not Sure, Ask!
Gallery staff are there for a reason. If you think there are too many people in one gallery, or you’re not sure about the one-way-system, there is no harm in clarifying the situation. Double checking is always a good idea!
Text Lizzy Vartanian
