We were lucky to catch up with Nakeyta Moore recently and have shared our conversation below.

Nakeyta, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s start with what makes profitability in your industry a challenge – what would you say is the biggest challenge?

When it comes to being an art consultant, profitability hinges on navigating a myriad of challenges quite unique to our industry. A colleague once said to me, “People outside of the art world are mystified by it;” that statement has resonated deeply with me ever since.

Indeed, this mystification represents one of the biggest hurdles to profitability. Unlike more conventional industries, the art world is often seen as enigmatic and for lack of better words a little…“shady”, and this perception ultimately deters many potential clients. In an economy prone to fluctuations, many individuals find themselves hesitant to invest their hard-earned money in art, often preferring to identify as art enthusiasts rather than collectors. This reluctance is intensified by the prevailing misconception that art sales primarily revolve around aesthetics and trends, dictated by a select few; the struggle to discern art’s intrinsic value further deepens this apprehension.

In addition to the opacity surrounding art, another significant challenge lies in the wealth disparity within the industry. Wealth tends to be concentrated at the top, making it difficult for emerging artists to gain visibility and sell their work. This stratification exacerbates the struggle for profitability, as artists and consultants at the lower rungs find themselves competing for limited resources and opportunities.

Furthermore, the art world is undergoing a fundamental shift from old ways to new ways. Traditional brick-and-mortar gallery spaces are migrating to the digital realm, and artists are taking a more independent role in representing themselves. This shift has challenged art consultants, like myself, to diversify our approaches to remain profitable. We are expanding our services to include marketing and branding services for artists, as well as building and managing various online spaces, from virtual galleries to social media. This evolution acknowledges that artists’ needs extend beyond merely selling to a client; it’s about creating a comprehensive ecosystem inclusive of building influence and creating meaningful artworks that supports artists throughout their careers.

To thrive in this environment, art consultants must adapt our services to meet the ever-evolving needs of both artists and clients, ultimately bridging the gap between perception and reality in the art world.

Nakeyta, 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 am a 31 year old all around creative! I am a fine art consultant, fit + print model, and performance artist, originally from Maryland, currently working as a senior art consultant and platforms manager with local art advisory Source Art. I’ve also founded the Los Angeles-based art advisory and info hub, ARTLOUDLA.

After earning my BA in Theatre, I found myself at a crossroads with very little direction. That’s when I decided to leave the country on an exciting adventure as an art gallery director on Royal Caribbean cruise ships. I fondly referred to this experience as my ‘art bootcamp,’ as it allowed me to delve into art sales, collection management, and client consulting, while traveling and engaging with a global audience.

Once wrapping up two enriching contracts filled with cultural and artistic experiences, I made the pivotal decision to establish myself in Los Angeles and embark on my entrepreneurial journey.

I moved to Los Angeles in the late summer of 2017. I’ve experienced some of the best and worst times of my life here. This city is tough, and I’ve been reminded time and time again that the dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately. However, as a deeply spiritual person, I firmly believe that if you put in the work, treat people well, and hold onto an unwavering vision, you’ll make progress, and someone will recognize your hard work.

In the summer of 2020, I planted the seeds for what would become ARTLOUDLA. My personal experiences in the art world have taught me that art has the power to transform lives, immortalize traditions, and connect communities.

At ARTLOUDLA, we offer a diverse range of products and services that cater to anyone interested in art and its intersection with Los Angeles culture. We are not limited by a single niche; instead, we are a hub for all things art-related here in the City of Angels.

Our offerings include:
* Art Events: We organize and host art shows, virtual galleries, panels, discussions, and networking events that bring together artists, collectors, and enthusiasts to celebrate creativity. We also offer exclusive invitations to art fairs and private art events.
* Art Consulting: We provide personalized art consulting services to guide clients through their art-related endeavors, whether it’s starting an art collection, managing existing collections, or making informed art investment decisions.
* Brand Building: In the digital age, having a strong artist brand is just as important as creating amazing art. We help artist brand and rebrand, offering comprehensive packages and tailored resources.
* Webinars: Our educational webinars provide valuable information about the art world, from collecting tips to art market trends to info on how to get involved with the LA Arts community.
* Artist Exhibitions: We actively support emerging artists by offering opportunities for them to showcase their talent and supporting artists with promotion, sales, and advisory at their art events.

Our brand motto, “Amplifying Creatives. Impacting Communities,” encapsulates our mission and values. We are here to guide artists, collectors, and enthusiasts on their artistic journeys, and we are excited to be part of this transformative time in the arts. So, whether it’s is an aspiring artist, a passionate collector, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of creativity, ARTLOUDLA is the gateway to the vibrant and dynamic world of art in Los Angeles.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Wow, so many. I will try to keep the list short:

Books:

* The Art of Buying Art: How to Evaluate and Buy Art Like a Professional Collector – Alan Bamgerger
– I love this art professional classic because it really allowed me to get inside of the minds of new collectors and answer common questions that lie at the core of art consulting.

*Things No One Else Can Teach Us – Humble the Poet
– This must read challenges readers to analyze the way they approach setbacks and challenges, offering hope for when I was in some of my darkest corners.

*The Raging 2020s: Companies, Countries, People and the Fight for Our Future – Alec Ross
– This a fabulous analysis of our social contracts, systems, and structures, asking how can we use technology and innovation to avert destruction and create a more cohesive cultural climate.

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones – James Clear
– A great book to help structure routines and new habits, this guide to retraining the brain came in handy for when I was structuring how to balance work-life, working multiple jobs, and regressing into negative talk cycles.

*Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way we Live, Love, Parent, and Lead – Brene Brown
– Another must read; Brown explores how embracing vulnerability can lead to more fulfilling lives, stronger relationships, and effective leadership. She argues that by allowing ourselves to be vulnerable and open, we can connect with others on a deeper level and ultimately live more authentic and meaningful lives.

Podcasts:

*On Purpose with Jay Shetty
– Interviews with influential guests from various fields to explore the paths to a more purposeful and mindful life. The podcast delves into personal development, wellness, and success, offering practical insights and wisdom to help listeners lead more fulfilling lives.

The School of Greatness: A Real-World Guide to Living Bigger, Loving Deeper, and Leaving a Legacy
– A motivational and personal development show that features interviews with successful individuals from various backgrounds, aiming to inspire listeners to live more impactful lives. The podcast provides practical advice and strategies for achieving greatness in various aspects of life, from personal growth to professional success, with a focus on leaving a lasting positive impact.

The Week in Art
– An insightful overview of the latest happenings in the world of art and culture. Through interviews with artists, curators, and experts, it offers a deep dive into current art exhibitions, trends, and noteworthy developments, making it a valuable resource for art enthusiasts and those looking to stay informed about the art world at large.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of new clients for ARTLOUDLA has undeniably been word of mouth. In our industry, where trust and credibility are paramount, there’s simply no substitute for the power of personal recommendations. Nowadays, the world is filled with constant marketing messages and people often find themselves disappointed by products or services that don’t live up to the hype; it can often feel overwhelming and impersonal, making it challenging and timely to find exactly what someone is looking for. That’s when they turn to their trusted network of friends, family, and colleagues for guidance and rely on their word to make informed decisions.

It’s precisely because of this that word of mouth will always remain the most intimate and reliable way to discover the best, and at ARTLOUDLA, we understand the profound significance of relationships, which form the very core of our values.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.artloudla.com
• Instagram: @gogogoldie_ent & @artloudla
• Facebook: Nakeyta Moore
• Linkedin: Nakeyta Moore
• Other: www.linktr.ee/nakeyta.moore

Image Credits
ARTLOUDLA photo team – J. William Moranon