It's ok to have questions.
Having questions is totally normal and we’re hear to help with any of your concerns. Please take a look through the Frequently Asked Questions below and if you still don’t see the answer you are looking for, just drop us an email and we’ll be sure to get back to you.
Artist & Vending Questions
Does my piece need to be finished before I apply?
Absolutely not. All you need to apply is a clear understanding of what you intend to produce and a small body of work that you can show us to give us an idea of your artistic style and technique.
I applied to be an artist or a vendor, and I haven’t heard back. What do I do?
First things first, is it after the May 14th date when we sent out notices to all applicants? If yes, the next step is to check your junk mail folder on your computer for an email from [email protected].
Still nothing? Ok, so now there’s a chance that we missed sending your letter or even that there was an issue receiving your application. Not too worry. Send us an email to [email protected] with your name, details and concern, and we’ll be in touch to try and sort things out.
How is Mush Love curated? How and why do you choose one piece over another?
It’s our goal at Mush Love to curate a dynamic and varied exhibition that showcases all things mushroom. We look for a variety of artistic mediums, technical capacities, cultural backgrounds and conceptual viewpoints. We pride ourselves on being a diverse, inclusive space for all forms of creativity.
If you are presenting a conceptual idea and not a finished piece, we look at whether you can convey your idea effectively and whether your portfolio gives us confidence that you can deliver your idea in a way that fits the exhibition.
Size is also a factor for us at Mush Love. Due to the intimate size of our exhibition space, we limit the number of oversized pieces we accept into the show.
We also look to how you present yourself to us as an artist. Your application is important. How do you talk about your artwork? It’s important to us that your piece has a certain level of professionalism. Extra points for work that is gallery-ready. ( quality framing | painted canvas edges | proper display & hanging )
Why do I have to pay a $35 artist administrative fee?
Mush Love is an artist-run & independently funded exhibition. To make this show possible, all accepted artists must pay a $35 administrative fee. This fee helps to cover some of the many costs associated with the production of an event of this magnitude, including venue rentals, promotional materials, marketing costs and hanging hardware. This administration fee goes a long way in helping us bring the show to life, and we do our best to deliver a top-notch, quality production that offers artists a professional platform to showcase their creative abilities.
Do you take commission off of artwork sales?
Yes, we do. Mush Love takes a minimal 20% commission off of all artwork and gift shop items ( prints, merch, cards, etc. ) that are part of the show. This commission rate is significantly less than traditional galleries, which can reach up to 50%. Our primary goal with the Mush Love exhibition is to help sustain artists in their creative practices, and a big part of that comes through financial stability.
As an exhibiting artist, is there anywhere to sell prints?
There sure is. Mush Love has a small, dedicated space we like to refer to as the gift shop, where exhibiting artists can sell relevant prints and small items like notepads, cards, pins or even small sculptures. Additional details surrounding the gift shop will be disclosed to approved artists before the event. All items in the gift shop are subject to the 20% commission fee.
I’m an out of town artist and would like to be a part of the show. How does that work?
We welcome out-of-town Canadian artists, but some additional steps need to be taken to be a part of the show. All artists are responsible for the shipping of their work to Mush Love no later than 1 week before the show and are also responsible for any return shipping fees that may be required. Mush Love is not responsible for any issues or damages that may happen via shipping. Due to the independent, artist-run nature of Mush Love, it may take 2-3 weeks post-show to receive your artwork back. If you need this sooner, please be sure to talk to your representative before the exhibition.
General Questions
Is Mush Love family-friendly?
Mush Love is a family-friendly event, however, we do ask that parents or guardians keep a close eye on their children throughout the gallery and market spaces as it can get quite busy, and the gallery has many fragile installations and pieces that could easily be damaged. Due to the nature of “art”, there may be nude or sensitive imagery in the exhibition. Please use your personal discretion.
Is Mush Love wheelchair accessible?
It sure is. 100% of Mush Love is wheelchair accessible.
Is the Mush Love Market event dog-friendly?
You are welcome to come through the show with your furry friend as long as it’s well-trained and good in busy, high-stimulation environments. We ask that you use your common sense on this one. Big dogs may be asked to leave the indoor gallery space depending on how busy it is at the time.
I heard there’s a private opening event. What’s that all about, and how do I get invited?
The Mush Love opening event is a limited capacity, private function we put on for all of the exhibiting artists, fab fungi friends and loyal supporters. It’s a fun-filled night filled with live music, food, drinks, tasty treats, an outdoor area with campfire lounging and a chance to connect with a conscious community of art lovers and mushroom enthusiasts.
The best way to learn more is to sign up for our newsletter on the website or send an email to [email protected] asking for more details.
How do I get down to the event? Is there parking nearby?
The Inglewood / Ramsay community is an inner city area located just East of downtown and is easily accessible via transit, bike, skateboard or scooter. It’s only minutes away from many popular river bike/walking paths along the Bow and Elbow Rivers, which can make for a day of amazing adventures. If you plan on driving down, there is no dedicated parking lot for the show; however, there is an empty lot adjacent to the venue, as well as lots of street parking throughout the community.
I’m a musician and I’d like to be a part of the entertainment at Mush Love. How do I apply?
We are always looking for new musical acts to be a part of the events we throw. Send us an email through the online contact form on the website with some details, and we’ll get back to you.