If there is a monetary benefit in art shows, I am not sure it is worth it to me. I have such a disdain for the snob factor. The winners are so arbitrary, you might as well be in a blind drawing. And just because you are a winner does not make you a better artist.
My career in art has never been at the mercy of judges, as perhaps many artists might be. My only judges are my customers. Perhaps that is the difference in my experience and most other artists. I have no complaints against the gallery shows because I have never participated in any. I have a lot of respect for those who have the moxy to enter shows, travel, and pay the price, even though there may never be a return on the investment. I guess that is the way some artists have to do it. That is not for me. I don't even like going to see art exhibits, not to mention entering them!
I guess that is why I enjoy this forum so much. I can learn from other artists, see their work, without all the other *+#^.
