Why I’m Showing My Work at a Hair Salon
New installation at Shag Salon, 17th Ave, Calgary
The Question on Everyone’s Mind
This weekend, I installed a substantial collection of my work at Shag, a well-loved salon on 17th Avenue in Calgary.
I know what some people might be thinking:
Why is a mid-career artist showing in a hair salon? Isn’t that something newer artists do to gain visibility?
Let’s be real — people go to salons for haircuts, not high-ticket art purchases.
The Rules Are Changing
But the old rules of the art world — who gets to show where, what’s considered “professional,” and how value is assigned — don’t serve us anymore.
The art world is shifting, and frankly, it needs to.
With political instability threatening everything from arts funding to basic human rights, visibility, joy, and community matter more than prestige. This is the time to show up and take up space — not just in galleries, but anywhere art can reach people.
Why Shag?
I’ve been a loyal Shag client for over 15 years. My husband’s been going even longer. The owner is a friend — someone I’d show up for in a heartbeat — and Shag has always been a welcoming space for all.
When they asked if I’d consider displaying my work, I paused to reflect on all the “rules” I’ve absorbed over the years. Then I asked myself:
Is this aligned? Is this smart?
Turns out, it absolutely is.
Calgary’s Gallery Scene Isn’t Easy
I don’t currently have gallery representation in Calgary, and space to show finished work is limited. Most of my completed pieces are stored at home, and I’m not exactly keen on hosting studio visits in my living room.
Calgary’s gallery scene is small. The few places where my work would fit either aren’t accepting submissions or already represent artists similar to me.
So when a highly visible, values-aligned space like Shag offered a spot, it wasn’t a step down — it was an opportunity.
Right People, Right Energy
Shag’s clientele is broad, but it includes the exact demographic that already connects with my work. Even if they don’t purchase right away, exposure counts. I’ve seen commissions happen while getting my hair done. I had several folks interested in the work while I was hanging it!
Plus, the team at Shag welcomes anyone — even if they’re just popping in to see the art.
Strategic and Aligned
In a softening market, this is a low-risk, high-reward move.
A few screws and a couple of hours gave my work a vibrant new home — one I can leave anytime if a new opportunity comes along.
This isn’t a fallback. It’s a deliberate choice to meet people where they are.
And right now, that feels exactly right.
Leave a Reply