By Jeannette Sirois
In the world of visual art, recognition often comes unexpectedly—but when it does, it can change everything. Recently, I had one of those moments. Two curators from the Cowichan Public Art Gallery reached out to request a studio visit, expressing interest in presenting a solo exhibition of my portrait series On the Table and several of my other portrait drawings.
This wasn’t just a kind gesture or a casual conversation—it was a direct invitation to share my work with a broader public audience, in a professional, respected space. It was affirming. But more than that, it reminded me that the work I’m doing—exploring identity, racism, mental health, and freedom through large-scale, hyperrealistic drawings—has weight. It has value. And it’s reaching people.
Recognition like this doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s the result of years of persistence, quiet focus, and a deep commitment to truth in the work.
I was not only prepared for it; I was ready to embrace it fully, driven by a strong determination and a steadfast resolve.
Why Public Galleries Matter
Public art galleries serve as essential cultural anchors. Unlike commercial galleries driven by sales, public galleries prioritize accessibility, education, and community engagement. They are often funded through government or community support and exist to bring art to a wider audience—especially to those who may not normally walk into a gallery space.
They present curated exhibitions, host lectures and workshops, collaborate with schools, and foster dialogue around culture, identity, and society. These institutions aren’t just showing art—they’re shaping the ways we see and understand our world.
Cowichan Public Art Gallery exemplifies this mission. Their exhibitions are thoughtful, their programming inclusive, and their commitment to supporting artists is real. By inviting external artists into their space, they’re expanding community conversation and championing diverse voices in contemporary art.
The Role of the Curator
Curators are more than just trendsetters—they’re translators, bridge-builders, and stewards of vision. A good curator doesn’t simply pick art off a checklist. They engage deeply with the artist’s intention, placing the work in a broader social, historical, and cultural context. They consider space, audience, and narrative.
A studio visit with a curator is not a casual drop-in—it’s a serious and collaborative moment. It’s about discovering how your work might live in the world beyond your studio walls. And when a curator visits your space, they’re not just looking at your art—they’re listening to how you talk about it, how you live with it, and how it reflects your values as a working artist.
The Studio Visit: What I Did to Prepare
I’ve done this before, and I’ve learned that a studio visit is a chance to show curators the full scope of your work and professional approach. It’s not about having the perfect studio—it’s about creating a welcoming, intentional environment that supports your work. I’ve hosted curators in rented apartments, and even in a bedroom studio.
This is what I prepared—and what I recommend to any artist looking to make a lasting impression:
✅ Studio Visit Checklist
Clean your space. Wipe down surfaces, tidy up, and sweep. A clean space shows respect for your work and for your visitors.
Good lighting. Natural light is best. If not possible, use multiple warm or day light, diffused light sources. Make sure your work is clearly visible.
Make it inviting. Whether you're in a home studio or rented space, create an open, welcoming environment. You don’t need a professional studio to be taken seriously.
Clear the path. Organize the layout so it’s easy to move around and view the work comfortably.
Show only your best work. Put away or turn to the wall anything that feels unresolved or doesn’t align with what you want to say.
Create flow. Arrange your work in a way that tells a story—chronologically, thematically, or by series.
Have a few talking points. Be ready to discuss materials, process, themes, and what you’re exploring next.
Offer refreshments. Sparkling or still water, tea, and small treats like cookies or chocolate go a long way to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Designate a place for coats and bags. Keep it tidy, away from art or materials.
Ensure a clean washroom is available. This is a basic but often overlooked detail.
Print your CV or artist statement. They may not ask for it, but being prepared shows professionalism.
Create a comfortable seating area. If time allows, a quick chat over tea helps build rapport.
Silence distractions. Turn off notifications, and avoid playing music—it can feel distracting or too casual. This is a serious meeting.
Have process work and sketchbooks nearby.These offer insight into how you think and build your work.
Dress intentionally.Wear what feels like you, but make it clean and considered. I wore clean jeans, a cool tee, a sharp jacket, and my red velvet Doc Marten boots.
Test the walkthrough. Step into your space as if you’re the visitor. What’s the first thing they’ll see? Aim for that “wow” moment.
Display your tools and materials. This gives curators a window into your practice and process.
Give time for the curators to breathe, look closely, examine and ask you questions or allow them space to talk about their ideas, vision and direction.
The Visit Itself
When the curators from Cowichan stepped into my space, I didn’t try to perform or over-explain. I let the work speak. On the Table is a deeply personal and political series—portraits that speak to lived experience, resilience, and authenticity. The room was quiet, focused, honest. My other work on mental health also gave the opportunity to see the works up close.
They took their time. They asked meaningful questions. They visualized the work in their gallery space. It felt like a genuine conversation between people who care deeply about what art can do. And in that moment, I knew something important had shifted.
The Power of Gallery Space
Galleries like Cowichan are rare. They don’t just display work—they elevate it. I’ve seen how they treat artists and audiences with care and respect. Their exhibitions are thoughtful, their lighting enhances storytelling, and their layouts give the art space to breathe. It's a small space, but powerful in it's curatorial direction.
To imagine my portraits displayed there—held with that same intentionality—is thrilling. Because I know what they can become in the right space, with the right audience.
What This Means
Securing a solo exhibition isn’t luck. It’s work. It’s years of showing up, staying true to your vision, and continuing even when no one is watching.
For emerging artists: Don’t wait to be discovered. Prepare for it. Work in the corners of your bedroom if you must. Be consistent. Refine your voice. Build a practice you believe in. Be ready—because when the opportunity arrives, it’s your preparation that will carry you through.
And Yes… I Got the Show
After the visit, I was officially offered the solo exhibition. I recently traveled to the Cowichan Public Art Gallery for a final conversation with the two curators. We discussed the layout, the narrative arc of the show, timelines, and logistics. Then I signed the contract.
It’s happening.
What’s Next
In an upcoming blog post, I’ll share what it was like to finalize the agreement—how we talked through the exhibition details, what I’m working on in preparation, and how it feels to step into this kind of opportunity.
Right now, I’m refining each portrait, ensuring the work reflects both the strength of the series and the vision I’ve committed to. I’m excited to share the stories behind these portraits—and proud to see them take their place on the walls of a public gallery.
This isn’t just a milestone. It’s a reminder: our work matters. And when the right people see it, it can go far beyond the studio.
I would love to hear your thoughts on your art journey. Comment below.
About the Artist
Jeannette Sirois is a queer visual artist based on Salt Spring Island, BC. With over 15 years of experience creating large-scale, hyperrealistic mixed media portrait drawings, her work explores urgent social themes including identity, mental health, racism, and acceptance. Through projects like On the Table, she invites viewers into powerful conversations around visibility, truth, and connection. Jeannette’s work has been exhibited across Canada and she is dedicated to mentoring emerging 2SLGBTQ+ artists and fostering inclusive spaces for artistic growth.
I am so proud of our curators Jeanette, and so pleased you recognize our professionalism in moving forward with our vision to bring The Cowichan Public Art Gallery to the community. And I am personally so looking forward to greeting you at our Gallery and experiencing your work. David Coulson, President, CPAG
As always, you are generous with your knowledge. Invaluable insights. Thank you for sharing it here with all of us.
Congratulations Jeannette on your show. I really enjoyed reading this blog - it was very informative and interesting.
Great insight! Thanks for sharing! And congratulations 🎉 🎉
Thanks for sharing this candid look, behind the scenes. Indeed, an "overnight success" can take many decades. Congratulations on landing the show! Hope you can bask in the joy and external validation a bit before rolling up your sleeves. Looking forward to seeing many photos and maybe a couple of videos when it happens! – Aquil