Commercial Galleries
The kind of gallery most people are familiar with are the commercial gallery (or retail gallery). As in any business, their goal is to sell and turn a profit. This doesn't mean that the owners of the galleries are just money-hogging business types with no love or appreciation for fine art. On the contrary, they are in the business of promoting artists whom they like. Most commercial galleries take 40 - 50% of all sales. This may seem like a huge amount of money, but they're running a business. In turn, they should give you a space to show your art, access to their customers, and promotional/marketing assistance (i.e. press releases, opening parties and other publicity).
Nonprofit Galleries
A nonprofit gallery has different motives from a commercial gallery. Their goals aren't necessarily to make sales, so they may not promote your work as aggressively. Nevertheless, they will give you an opportunity to show and sell your work. They are not as great in number, but still a good way to promote your art. They usually take a small commission (about 20 - 30%).
Co-op Galleries
A co-op gallery, like any other co-op is a grassroots effort, run by artists for artists. Members pay a fee to cover the gallery's expenses and overhead. In return, they are allowed to exhibit their work in the space. Sometimes, co-ops may take a small commission (usually something like 20 to 30%) to cover costs. The members share responsibility for the gallery, taking turns with sales, cleaning, maintenance, and gallery sitting. You can join a co-op in your neighborhood or start one with your friends if you have access to an exhibition space.
Rental Galleries
Rental galleries (or sometimes called "vanity galleries") make most of their profits from renting spaces to artists. Since they're charging us a fee, they may not take commission on sales. Although, it is not uncommon for some of them to take a small commission. These galleries don't have much credibility, because any schmoe off the street can show their work here. Thus, your work doesn't enjoy the validity of a gallery director or curator. Reviewers and buyers may not take your work as seriously when exhibited in a rental gallery. Some of them provide promotional support for your work; others do not. Unless you're well-off and can afford to pay to have your work shown, I don't recommend exhibiting in a rental gallery.
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