We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Erin Page a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Erin, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Parents can play a significant role in affecting how our lives and careers turn out – and so we think it’s important to look back and have conversations about what our parents did that affected us positive (or negatively) so that we can learn from the billions of experiences in each generation. What’s something you feel your parents did right that impacted you positively.
When I was nine years old, my mother took a job at an art gallery in Milwaukee. It changed the course of our lives and opened me up to the most intoxicating, vibrant and splendid career path I can imagine. My mother eventually opened her own gallery and I spent many days working alongside her. It’s a wonderful experience working with artists and building collections and although an untraditional career choice, I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Erin, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m an accomplished art advisor, artist mentor, and curator, all centered around fostering meaningful connections within the vibrant San Diego arts community.
I grew up in the industry and my professional career spans more than a decade. Having worked in various roles in both galleries and artist studios, my journey through the art world has provided me with a distinct blend of expertise and insights. I’m driven by a genuine enthusiasm for building art collections that resonate deeply with clients, while also cultivating a genuine appreciation for the art world.
In my role as an artist mentor, I’ve had the privilege of guiding and empowering artists on their path to success. My focus goes beyond mere guidance; I’m committed to helping artists navigate the intricacies of the art market and nurturing their creative journey, allowing them to flourish.
At the core of my mission is the belief that art is essential and possesses an incredible power to transform – it initiates conversations, evokes emotions, and drives change. It’s an honor to contribute to this dynamic landscape by nurturing both artists and a broader audience’s connection to art. Art is my passion and I love to share that joy with others.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Entrepreneurship isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a demanding journey that requires you to master every facet of your business, from refining your services to navigating accounting, marketing, strategy, and social media – the list goes on. Every step is a learning experience, and until you build a team, the weight of your business rests on your shoulders as the sole owner.
My entrepreneurial journey began in January of 2020, just as the world began to grapple with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Uncertainty loomed, but I pressed forward, fueled by determination and a thirst for knowledge. I dove into the challenges headfirst, committed to providing exceptional value to my clients and adapting to the ever-changing landscape.
Now, as we navigate an era of economic strain and I contend with the unique challenges of operating in a “luxury” industry during times of high inflation, I remain steadfast in my pursuit. I recall the sage advice of a dear friend and mentor, who shared that unwavering commitment and belief in one’s work can empower us to weather any storm and ride the waves of both highs and lows.
To fellow business owners treading these challenging waters, I offer this insight: If you’re fueled by a genuine passion for what you do, don’t falter. Embrace the hurdles as opportunities for growth, for it’s in these trying moments that we forge our truest strengths. Keep moving forward, knowing that your dedication will ultimately yield the rewards of living your authentic passion.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
I’m an avid learner and my curiosity fuels a steady stream of podcasts. While I deeply engage with art-related podcasts, my thirst for knowledge extends into diverse realms, including sales, digital marketing, business strategy, and entrepreneurship. A few podcasts that have left an indelible mark on my journey as a business owner include “How I Built This,” “Sales Game Changers,” and “Online Marketing Made Easy.” These auditory gems have provided invaluable insights, shaping my perspective and strategies.
I also enjoy reading books that unravel the intricacies of sales, interpersonal dynamics, and financial empowerment. For those seeking to master the art of sales, I wholeheartedly recommend timeless classics like “How to Win Friends and Influence People.” To unlock the full potential of personal effectiveness, “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” stands as the time timetested guide. And for those ready to embrace their financial prowess, “You Are a Badass at Making Money” offers an empowering roadmap.
Contact Info:
- Website: pageartprojects.com
- Instagram: @pageartprojects
- Linkedin: Erin Page