Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alice Trahant Phillips. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alice, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
Growing up as a multi-generational New Orleanian, my upbringing was all about creativity and culture. You absorb it from every city angle before you even realize that it’s become a part of you. New Orleans teaches you to not only be an individual, but to express yourself as an individual.
My family has always been very artistic and appreciative of the arts. Art adorned every wall in my house growing up. I still think of our gallery walls and how happy they made me. And, for as long as I could remember I was creating, from Sunday rainy day projects, to drawing in sketchbooks, to participating in every art contest that school had to offer, I loved making beautiful things appear out of everyday materials and blank pages.
To further my passions, both my mother and grandmother had great jewelry style and knew the power of a good accessory. I can’t tally the number of hours I spent rooting through their jewelry drawers – going from playing dress up to eventually “borrowing” looks to change up my everyday wear as I aged. As I came up with ideas for jewelry that I wish existed but I could not find, or wanted pieces outside of my affordability, I eventually started to create my own.
All of these things came together for me to build my current path.
I had always looked at these passions as personal ones to me, never considering that I would produce something that others would want to buy or use me as a consultant. Life handed me some opportunities that set me in the present trajectory.
Professionally, I managed and directed one of the largest artists market in the Southeast for several years – this put my passion and eye for art centerstage in front of many people at once. I then, and around the same time, fell into starting a jewelry business with a friend called Empire State Finery. Our quick success made me realize that not only did others appreciate my creations, but they actually wanted them for themselves.
I’ve now gone out on my own with a business doing everything that I adore. Under Alice Trahant Phillips, I work as an art consultant, artist and jewelry designer:
As an art consultant, I love going to someone’s home and matching them with the perfect piece of art. Artwork is so personal, and sharing a passion and finding a home for a beautiful artwork that will come to reside in someone’s personal space is such a pleasure.
As an artist and jewelry designer, creation is everything to me. It’s in my blood and I can’t see a life without it. The fact that someone relates to the pieces that I make and want to weave them into their everyday lives and use them as an expression of their own style is the coolest compliment.
I love what I do and feel very lucky to be supporting my passions daily.
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.
Under Alice Trahant Phillips, I work as an art consultant, art stylist, artist and jewelry designer. My work as an artist and jewelry designer is pretty self-explanatory, but people often have questions about how art consulting works…
As an art consultant and stylist, I help clients both acquire new art, and also make the best use and display of already existing art. Think of me as your art personal shopper. I strive to familiarize myself with client’s artistic preferences and aesthetic tastes, listening motivations and needs. I help make the right choice in terms of investment and quality, choosing pieces that meaningfully complement a client’s nature and interests…and maybe even opening the mind to some new fresh ideas at the same time! Existing art projects include re-styling bookshelves, creating gallery walls large and small, and reframing and revamping existing pieces.
BEST KEPT SECRET? Depending on the size and scope of the project, most consulting is completely free to the client and my commission is paid through artist or gallery. Clients always pay current retail price for artwork purchased, with no upcharge for using my services. It ends up being an absolute no-brainer when shopping for new artwork, and you completely avoid the pressures and intimidation of looking for art on your own or through a gallery experience.
Whether clients need assistance in choosing the right piece of art for a specific space or help developing an overall art collection, I work with individual private clients and businesses on projects of all sizes.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
Whether I am styling and placing the works of other artists or I am the one creating, my propeller is the same – a love and appreciation of art. Art impacts us in unexpected ways — it can broaden our thinking and shift how we see the world. It is a powerful tool for self-discovery, connection, and creative exploration. Being a conduit to that is so fulfilling!
Have you ever had to pivot?
If anyone says that owning a small business equates to a smooth road, you should immediately check their temperature! It is a constant pinball game of time, energy, and work/life balance. Today’s growing technology only further accelerates the ride. Having the time to build, develop and follow through on a creative concept, or research artists and familiarize yourself with clients is now one of the smallest pieces of the puzzle. Every small business owner must also now be versed in marketing, video production, computer programming, and social media applications. It’s enough to make your head spin off axis, but it is all worth the quick footwork and tired eyes!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alicetrahantphillips.com
- Instagram: @alicetrahantphillips.art (https://www.instagram.com/alicetrahantphillips.art/?hl=en)
- Facebook: Alice Trahant Phillips – Art Consulting, Art & Jewelry
Image Credits
KVC Photography