So, we decide to start our own business – a contemporary art retail store. We analyze the demographics, test the market demand, write a business plan, define a business model, talk to friends and family, validate with artists, seek advice from gallery owners, scope out the competition, interview potential customers, discuss with local entrepreneurs. And the verdict is in.
We’re either crazy, or totally crazy!
My wife, Kim, and I have had the entrepreneurial bug for a while. I jumped ship from corporate America in 2003; Kim’s leaving the executive suite at the end of 2007. So, we had this notion to get into the art business.
Now, to cut a long story very short. I’m a long-time landscape photographer. We both love contemporary art. We live in a suburban area that is crying our for art, creative expression, and entertainment. So…
We took a long, hard look at the art market. The area is home to many quality artists, consumer demographics look compelling and there are only a couple of competitors within 20 miles – one at the low-end of the market, and one at the high-end. So, this has set the ball rolling – we plan to open the first contemporary art retail store in Keller, Texas.
After much deliberation on names, we finally registered ArtBox on October 22, 2007. Now, I can start blogging relentlessly. Oh, and did I mention, we have a contemporary art store to build as well!
"Trapped inside a contemporary art space in the suburbs" is brought to you by Mike. He owns art251 with his wife Kim. They are both escapees from corporate America, and built art251 to satisfy a passion for art, keep their creative spirits alive, bring color to the local community and support local artists.