Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
Imminent Art is an initiative focused on showcasing the talent of young artists (ages 18 – 25) to the regional art market, as we know how hard it is to get their art seen, let alone sold. On the evening of August 15th at the Burroughs Building on Queen Street West, Imminent Art will host an exhibition of 20 of Toronto’s most visionary young artists. This is a great opportunity for the artists to meet and mingle with Toronto’s finest art dealers, gallery owners, curators and collectors. A selection of work from each artist will be available for viewing and sale throughout the evening.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
I found that there were limited outlets for young artists to showcase their work. Most gallery owners will not represent an artist unless they have exhibited in a museum, which takes time and luck. I wanted to kick-start that process, returning 90% of the sale proceeds directly to the artists, as compared to the 50% the artists would receive from a sale at a conventional, private art gallery. It is important for the artists to be aware of this reality, but Imminent Art wants to strengthen their chances of success by easing them into the sales process.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is seeing how positively young artists are reacting to Imminent Art. Hearing “what a great idea” and seeing their incredible submissions come in. The most challenging is trying to manage a budget. I did not create an expense sheet at first, and when I did, I was shocked at how easily expenses start accumulating. It’s under control now.
Where do you see your business going in five years?
At the moment, Imminent Art takes place annually. In five years, I see the exhibition taking place in a gallery of its own. I want to have a place where young artists can exhibit their work every day of the year.
What does success look like to you?
To me, success is not financial because Imminent Art takes a limited profit from the sale of each piece of art (10% to be exact, which is incredibly unusual). Success is deregulating the Toronto art market, making it easier for artists to be successful without having to be backed by selective ideas of “good art.”
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Getting my business licence. I was so happy and excited that my idea was becoming a reality. I’m sure the opening of Imminent Art on August 15th will soon take its place. I am incredibly thrilled. You can buy tickets here.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Just jump! Being young, we are resilient and we have the opportunity to learn from our mistakes, and often we land on our feet. I’m figuring things out about how to organize and run Imminent Art along the way, but no one nor thing could have prepared me like that of just going forth with my idea.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Run for the Cure. My mother passed away from breast cancer when I was 16. I know that research is the key to defeating this horrid disease, which is only possible through fundraising. I can still remember the first Run I did with my mother and sister when I was about seven years old. It brings a huge smile to my face thinking about that day.
What is Notable to you?
Highlighting the achievements of the young entrepreneurs that might not otherwise be noticed.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.
How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
Working out. Weekends up in Muskoka swimming, wakesurfing and enjoying time with family and friends. I LOVE to paint and draw. Growing up with ADHD, art made me believe that I could focus my mind and energy. Art is an incredible outlet where I manage to completely immerse myself in what I am creating. In fact, one of my pieces will be in the exhibition on August 15th.