We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tracy Riggio a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Tracy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

I am absolutely happier as an artist and creative. Every once and a while, I consider stepping away from art and fine art restoration, wondering if a different career might bring me more fulfillment, less back pain, and certainly more money. The thought definitely reoccurs—is there something else out there that would be a better fit, more rewarding? But after each time I question, I realize that leaving would mean walking away from not just a job, but a lifelong passion, expertise I’ve built over the years, and helping people preserve what is so precious to them and history.

I’ve dedicated so much time to this craft that it has become a part of me, part of my identity. Whether restoring a centuries-old painting and frame or creating something new, I find deep satisfaction in the process and especially my connection with the artwork and my customers. The knowledge I’ve gained— through formal education, thousands of projects, and countless hours of hard work—is something that no other career could replace.

Instead of searching for something else, I’ve shifted my focus to finding more joy in what I already do. That means reconnecting with the reasons I started in the first place, seeking inspiration in new projects, and reminding myself that this is one of the most unique and satisfying fields I have ever encountered. The beauty of this field is that there’s always something more to learn, another challenge to solve, and new stories and memories to preserve.

Sometimes, happiness isn’t about starting over—it’s about rediscovering what you love in what you already do.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

After graduating from college with a BFA, I had a few different jobs. I was a graphic designer for a bit but I didn’t enjoy it. Then one day I met a woman who owned an art conservation and restoration studio in Marietta, GA. I had no idea what a fine art conservator did. She gave me a job, trained me, and I fell in love instantly. I knew this was my passion!

Eventually I had to relocate from Georgia to Florida. The Brandon/Valrico area (and really most of the greater Tampa Bay region) had zero art restoration businesses so if I wanted to continue in that field I had to start my own. In 2013 I started Cook Restoration, which specializes in the museum quality conservation and restoration of antique paintings and gold gilded frames.

I have been a conservator for 20 years now and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. People ask what is the most famous/valuable painting I have worked on, and while I have done work for museums, galleries, and antique dealers, my favorite pieces to work on aren’t famous or of great monetary value. It’s the pieces that have tremendous sentimental value that I enjoy most. It was a gift from a loved one, someone’s relative painted it, or it’s been in the family for generations. I get the privilege of not only restoring a piece of history, but people’s treasured memories and stories. The look on their face when they see their artwork restored to its original beauty, is my favorite part. That is why I do it, what pushes me forward and will keep me in fine art conservation and restoration for as long as I am able.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

When I began my career as a fine art conservator I was only 24 and looked like a high schooler. And just like no one wants a doctor straight out of med school, people were definitely skeptical of my lack of experience and abilities. And I don’t blame them! So I had to refine my skills quickly, ensure I didn’t cause any damage (it only takes one mistake to destroy a painting), and the quality had to be impeccable. It took a tremendous amount of hard work to gain the respect and admiration of my customers. But once they saw the quality of my work and what I was capable of, they began to request me specifically. They put their full trust in my abilities and my reputation for excellence has continued to grow ever since. Now word of mouth recommendations are my number one driver of business from private collectors, art dealers and museums alike.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

To fully support artists and creatives, society must do multiple things in conjunction. We need to invest in the Arts by providing funding/grants and fair compensation to support sustainable careers, continue art education through schools and community workshops, and encourage public engagement by making art accessible in public spaces and through city planning.

A thriving creative ecosystem depends on respect, resources, and recognition—ensuring art remains a valued part of our culture.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cookrestoration.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookrestoration
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cookrestoration
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/cookrestoration