I am very lucky to have lived in different parts of the world; Florida, New York, Budapest and now Dubai.
These places contributed to my experience of art and marketing. Living in Europe for over 15 years gave me the opportunity to see some of the greatest artworks of the world. I’ve had some extraordinary experiences – from touring Tiepolo’s ceiling frescoes in Udine, to Monet’s gardens in Giverny, to an art camp in the heart of Transylvania.
When I moved from New York to Hungary in 1993 after my husband got a posting there, there wasn’t much I could do in terms of a job, but there was a lot that could be done for orphanages and children’s hospitals.
At the time, Hungary was struggling to find its way democratically. My second week in Budapest saw me jet-lagged and culture shocked. For a breath of fresh air, I visited the Budapest Museum of Fine Arts. It was not in very good shape but had this fabulous collection of art. With my marketing experience I knew I could help them. Eventually we set up the Friends of the Museum of Fine Arts, the first of its kind in that region. We had an office at the museum where I spent over six fulfilling years.
The wealth of experience I accumulated has helped me grow as a person and in my work in the arts arena.
My work with the Friends of the Museum of Fine Arts led to my nomination in 2005 for the prestigious Summa Artium Foundation Award. The Foundation’s goal is to promote and develop art and culture by encouraging patronage within the community. I did not win, but as a foreigner, I was honoured to be nominated.
Having loved working in the arts field, the best step forward was to specialise in art management with a view to opening my very own art management consultancy in Hungary.
In time, both goals materialised and I found myself loving the challenge of finding the best art to fit the requirements of my clients.
I had never thought about opening a gallery because I was satisfied with my art-consulting business.
However, one day, a friend asked me if I wanted to open one. I decided to use the space for a non-profit gallery for young artists. It was located in an old industrial compound and the abandoned factory building became the birthplace of the Art Factory Studio and Gallery. The Art Factory became known internationally. Frommer’s Travel Guide even listed it as a place to visit in Budapest. Eventually I opened a small commercial gallery in the centre of Budapest, called Art Factory II. At the time Hungarian artists were unknown in the international art world. There was also the issue of the language barrier as hardly anyone spoke English. But I’m proud to say several artists including Zsolt Bodoni became successful and got some recognition outside Hungary.
After 15 years in Budapest my husband and I were looking for new horizons.
At first I thought I’d keep the galleries open and commute between Budapest and Dubai, but I soon realised they needed my full attention to succeed. Reluctantly, I closed the galleries in Hungary and settled in Dubai. I am inspired to learn about the new art scene and artists in the Middle East. Since moving to Dubai I’ve developed a new speciality in the field of fine-art logistics. As manager of the fine-art division of Bridgeway Shipping, I focus on the special requirements of art, in terms of packing, shipping, storage and so on.
My advice to anyone interested in working in the art field is to visit exhibitions, galleries and art fairs.
Also it is important to read books about art and the art business and follow blogs covering the art world. Eventually you’ll become aware of which area of the art business appeals to you. It seems like a glamorous business, but success comes only with hard work.
Quick questions
What’s a favourite part of the job?
Getting to know people working in the arts in this region. They are an exceptional group; hardworking, dedicated visionaries.
Any other hobbies?
Gardening. I’m intrigued by the Islamic garden. I admire the order and meaning behind Islamic architecture and gardens. A lot of thought goes into what kind of plants or trees are used, along with the sound of water that muffles city sounds and offers a place to uplift tired spirits.
Interviewed by Preethi Janice D’Sa, a Dubai-based freelancer
