Hi Keith,
Definitely write a letter, just not a scathing one, educate "the organizers" with your experience void of judgment -and relate to them from their perspective and interest (if they had foreseen the shortcomings that you experienced and realized its impact on sales -from which they also benefit- there might be a shift in their understanding).

Unfortunately, when dealing with venues which aren't focused on art sales (i.e. coffee shops, foot-traffic businesses, restaurants, lounges, etc.) there is great opportunity for lack of consciousness around showing the art -and what is in the best interest of that.

Given the category of your photography ("Erotic") and due to public mores I suggest you cultivate relationships with likely venues with clientelle that will be interested in your photography and enhances the venues existing "theme." Locate some sophisticated (or not) "gentleman's clubs," casinos, upscale businesses that market to an adult/mature client, (even local corporation offices) that already have a look and feel that would be complimented by your photography. Show your portfolio to the owner/manager and discuss optimum presentation space. You'll probably have to help out with lighting adjustments and placement of your pieces (as you did already) but hopefully with the personal touch and pre-show understanding there will be a happier outcome for you.

Businesses tend to see art/photography on their walls as not essential and not impacting their sales. Gently inform and educate them on how the opposite is true, that good art/photography enhances their business "branding" and contributes to the "look and feel" their customers appreciate. If you can show how your art compliments this -your in! *smile*

BTW, unless heavily promoted, art/photography seems to seldom be the "headliner" for venues not usually set up for showing. You'll probably want to do lots of your own promotion (flyers, email, tribe listings, etc.) to get the exposure you are looking for. Business owners cut the budget for such things first when things are slow.

Here's another suggestion that worked wonders for me: If possible, have one of your models present (clothed) accompanying you in schmoozing the guests and talking about the photography, the session, -anything- just being present. People are fascinated by meeting the "live" model and seeing him/her in the photograph/art as well.

Love and Light,
Sunyata

www.mythiclove.net/sunyata