But, local artists will be full of excitement as they get the opportunity to meet gallery professionals at an upcoming event at Muswellbrook next month.

Arts Upper Hunter (AUH), in collaboration with the Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre, will host its annual Speed Dating for Visual Artists seminar on Wednesday, November 14.

It gives people the chance to have their work critiqued by five of the region’s foremost experts on art, and receive feedback designed to guide them towards a positive future in the industry.

Now in its fourth year, the event has spawned many success stories, including exhibitions being organised and one competitor even going on to win the Newcastle Emerging Artist prize.

AUH regional arts development officer Mark Reedman said it’s a great opportunity for the area’s hidden talents to discover how they can improve and kickstart a career.

“The main thing is that artists go away with a bit more of a focus on what they should be working on in their art practice,” he said.

“They have a bit of a chat about their trajectory as an artist, whether they’re trying to become a bit more professional, trying to get their work in an exhibition, getting more of an online presence or talking about their work-life balance, just those sorts of things that artists need to talk about.”

He said previous participants had thoroughly enjoyed the event and found it extremely helpful for their development. 

“The response has been very positive… people come away saying it’s been a very rewarding experience,” Mr Reedman said.

He added that those involved had a look at each other’s work during the seven-minute spells when they’re not speaking to one of the professionals, and often provide tips and tricks to each other which are also beneficial.

The attending experts this year will be Sandra McMahon (Weswal Gallery director, Tamworth), Ahn Wells (Gallery 139 director, Newcastle), Rachel Saunders (Gloucester Gallery director), Brad Franks (Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre manager) and Barb Nanshe (Barbara Nanshe Studio, Newcastle).

To get involved, feel free to register via phoning Arts Upper Hunter on 6571 4776, or emailing Mr Reedman at rado@artsupperhunter.com.au, entry fee is $25.