It was such a joy for me to chat to the utterly heavenly Hettie, the founder of Art Untamed recently.
After graduating in History of Art from Edinburgh University ten years ago, Hettie went on to work for Michael Goedhuis for seven years on both his Western and Asian contemporary art collections. Three years ago, she left to set up her own art consultancy, working on commercial and residential projects in the UK and all over the world. Alongside art consulting she has curated various exhibitions in London offering a selection of works from an international group of both emerging and established artists.
I loved learning more about Hettie's company, some of her favourite things and the best advice she has been given, I hope you love reading Hettie's story as much as I did.
What is your company mission statement?
The aim is simple – to make buying art more accessible, understandable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. However big or small your project, we would love to work with you. Whether you’re looking to fill a space in your home, start your own collection, source something for a client or create something bespoke, we’re here, from the initial consultation to the final installation. Together, we will find what you are looking for.
What are the most rewarding aspects of what you do?
To know that I have helped someone find an artwork they love is incredibly rewarding. When clients send me pictures of new artworks on their walls, it brings me a lot of joy!
Favourite part about your job?
Meeting new artists, seeing their studios, hearing their story and learning about what inspires them; visualising their works in spaces has always excited me. It can be quite lonely running a business so it's also great to be out and about meeting and chatting to artists!
What is the best piece of career advice you have been given?
Never give up... there will be days when you want to, but just keep going and work as hard as you can.
What advice would you offer budding entrepreneurs?
Don't expect every day to be a good day...there will be bumps along the road but these are outweighed by the highs...from my experience, persevering has always been worth it!
Above image courtesy of Sarah Button
Who inspires you and why?
Both my parents. They have started their own businesses and are the hardest working people I know. They are both so driven, determined and positive... I feel so incredibly lucky to have them and wouldn't have started my own business if it wasn't for their huge encouragement and unfathomable support.
Where is your favourite place to travel to?
Mexico... I have been twice in the last two years to the East and the West Coasts and loved them both!
Nothing beats having a spicy marg and some fish tacos on the beach!
The art scene is also incredible... especially in Mexico City and Oaxaca where the colours are so vibrant! It is a real treat for the senses.
Above image courtesy of Natalie Tkachuk
Favourite Five: restaurants
Gold - Notting Hill
Llewelyn's - Herne Hill
The Pelican - Notting Hill
Archway - Battersea
Brat - Shoreditch
What is the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
Lots of coffee! Couldn't start my day without it...
Above image courtesy of Jonathan Bond
What would you tell your younger self?
To stop worrying so much and live in the moment.
Image copyright all Art Untamed unless stated
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