We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Chris Lucore a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Chris , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
The story starts in 2020. I was a senior at Hobart College, closing in on a dual degree in chemistry and studio art, with no real idea what to do next. Chemistry was losing its appeal, and painting didn’t feel like a realistic career path. Before I could figure anything out, the pandemic hit. Colleges shut down, and I was sent home to finish my final semester online. Not long after, I had the first of four grand mal seizures — a jarring, unexpected reset.
Recovery was slow and isolating. I couldn’t drive, I cycled through different medications, and my family kept a close eye on me. During that time, painting became my escape. I spent long days moving from canvas to canvas, trying to make sense of everything.
In 2021, after months of solitude, I was riding with my family to get coffee when we passed a vacant storefront. I looked at them and said, “What if I opened an art gallery?”
That question changed everything. Opening The Lucore Art was a huge risk — financially, emotionally, and professionally. But it flipped my world as an isolated painter on its head. Four years later, I’m part of a thriving creative community that I helped build, and I love it.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name is Chris Lucore — I’m an artist, curator, and the owner of The Lucore Art in Montauk, NY. From March through December, I present a new art exhibition every three weeks, showcasing primarily original work by artists from the East End of Long Island.
I got into this work because of a deep love for art and a belief that the presentation of art is an art form in itself. I see curating as more than just hanging pieces on a wall — it’s about creating a conversation between works, elevating the viewing experience, and giving artists the stage they deserve.
Beyond the gallery, I also work as a curator throughout the community — consulting and assisting with exhibitions and installations at various venues across the East End. Whether in my space or elsewhere, my goal is the same: to provide artists with real-life, in-person exposure and to raise the standard for how art is experienced.
What I’m most proud of is the community I’ve helped build. The art world can be isolating — and artists, by nature, often work in solitude. I’ve worked to make The Lucore Art a welcoming, supportive space where artists can come together, connect, celebrate each other’s work, and grow through their differences.
At its core, my work is about connection — between artist and viewer, between creators, and between art and its environment. That’s what sets The Lucore Art apart.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
A big lesson I had to unlearn is the belief that there’s always a single right answer.
Studying math and science taught me to think in terms of clear solutions — that if you follow the right steps, you’ll always get the correct result. But in the art world, and especially in running a business, things are rarely that straightforward.
As a young gallery owner, I get a lot of advice — and much of it contradicts itself. At first, that was overwhelming. I wanted to do things “right,” but it became clear that there isn’t one perfect path to success. Every situation is different. What works once might not work again, and what fails in one context might thrive in another.
I’ve learned to adapt, stay open to change, and not panic if something doesn’t go exactly as planned. The key is to stay grounded, keep listening, and approach each challenge with care. There’s no universal right answer — just the right response for right now.
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
Consistency has been key to keeping in touch with clients and fostering brand loyalty. Since opening The Lucore Art in 2021, I’ve held shows every three weeks from March to December. This regularity has helped create a sense of anticipation — people know there’s always something new to see.
In Montauk, which is known for its seasonal nature, this consistency becomes even more valuable. It offers both locals and visitors rare opportunities to connect and experience art during the off-season, when the town can feel quieter. The gallery has become a space where the community gathers, and that’s something I think people truly appreciate.
By maintaining this steady rhythm of exhibitions, I keep the gallery top of mind, and visitors keep coming back, knowing they’ll always find something fresh and engaging.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thelucoreart.com
- Instagram: @Thelucoreart
- Facebook: The Lucore Art
