Art world etiquette rules from a decade of experience

After ten years in the art industry, a writer shares a non-exhaustive list of personal rules for navigating its social dynamics. Key guidelines include: asking questions when unsure about an artwork; always being punctual; giving people three chances to remember you before reminding them; allowing others to retell a story three times before gently acknowledging you've heard it; limiting work functions to one drink; signing guestbooks; avoiding talking about an artwork in front of it; dressing up for openings; buying vintage and secondhand; never photographing or touching anything in an artist's studio without permission; following back on Instagram without checking follower counts; using gossip carefully but not about friends; maintaining hobbies and friends outside the art world; practicing what you preach by attending openings, buying art, and emailing artists; not quizzing peers on artist knowledge; following up on emails twice before letting go; and refraining from unsolicited advice.