It shouldn't be necessary be part of an artist clique to progress and to sell in galleries - I don’t understand why in some circles, you have to be a ‘known’ artist to exhibit in certain venues and Its an awful feeling when someone looks down their nose at you, just because they don't know you. I've had that happen to me in Cheltenham and it wasn't a nice feeling. Why can’t an unknown artist have an opportunity to show what they can do? Their portfolio alongside their passion and enthusiasm should be enough evidence surely?