We recently connected with Vania Soto and have shared our conversation below.
Vania, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
The idea for Monarca Art Space was born out of a personal journey as an artist in Kansas City. As I searched for a space to create my own work, I encountered a significant barrier: the available spaces were either overpriced or unsuitable, typically warehouse spaces that didn’t meet the needs of artists.
Inspiration:
During this frustrating search, it became clear to me that I wasn’t alone. Many artists of color in Kansas City were likely facing the same challenges. The lack of appropriate, affordable spaces for artists to create and exhibit their work was a glaring gap in our community.
I felt a mix of frustration and determination. The frustration of facing these barriers myself fueled a determination to find a solution not just for me, but for the broader community of artists of color.
I began by researching the local art scene and speaking with other artists. It was evident that there was a significant demand for accessible, affordable creative spaces. The potential for a space that catered specifically to the needs of artists of color was clear.
Unique Value Proposition:
Monarca Art Space would not only provide studios but also a gallery and boutique where local artists could sell their work and keep 100% of their profits, only paying a small shelf fee each month. This model supports artists financially and creatively, something not commonly offered in our area.
Excitement and Passion:
Finding the perfect location in the West Bottoms felt like a breakthrough moment. The vision of a vibrant, inclusive space where artists of color could thrive was incredibly exciting. The potential to foster a supportive community and provide a platform for underrepresented voices was what got me most excited.
Context and Circumstances:
The idea for Monarca Art Space came from my personal experiences as an artist struggling to find a suitable and affordable space in Kansas City. Every option seemed either overpriced or impractical for an artist’s needs. Realizing that many other artists of color were likely facing the same struggles, I saw a pressing need for a better solution.
Inspiration:
In the midst of my search, it struck me that creating such a space myself could solve this problem for many in our community. I was inspired by the potential impact of providing a space where artists of color could create, exhibit, and sell their work without the typical financial barriers.
Initially, I felt frustrated by the lack of options, but this quickly turned into a sense of determination and excitement. I was driven by the vision of a supportive, inclusive space where artists could truly thrive.
Logic and Reasoning:
To ensure this was a worthwhile endeavor, I conducted thorough research and engaged with the local art community. The response was overwhelmingly positive, confirming a strong demand for such a space. The unique model of allowing artists to keep 100% of their profits while paying a modest shelf fee was particularly appealing and feasible.
Unique Value Proposition:
Monarca Art Space offers something unique: a gallery, a boutique, and affordable studios tailored to the needs of artists of color. This comprehensive approach addresses both the creative and financial challenges artists face, setting us apart from other spaces.
Excitement and Passion:
Securing the perfect spot in the West Bottoms was a pivotal moment. It felt like the stars were aligning. I was excited about the opportunity to create a vibrant, inclusive community where artists of color could flourish. The chance to support and uplift my fellow artists was the driving force behind Monarca Art Space.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
For Folks Who May Not Have Read About You Before, Can You Please Tell Our Readers About Yourself?
Introduction:
My name is Vania Soto, and I am the founder and director of Monarca Art Space in Kansas City. As an artist myself, I have always been passionate about creating and fostering a supportive environment for other artists, particularly those from underrepresented communities.
My journey into the art world began at a young age. I have always been fascinated by the power of visual expression and its ability to convey complex emotions and stories. After pursuing formal education in the arts, I realized that while talent and creativity are abundant in our community, the resources and spaces available to artists of color were severely lacking.
My personal struggles with finding an affordable and suitable space to create led me to the idea of Monarca Art Space. I wanted to create a place where artists could not only create but also exhibit and sell their work without facing the financial and logistical barriers that I had encountered.
What Type of Products/Services/Creative Works You Provide
Services and Offerings:
Monarca Art Space is a multifaceted art hub that offers:
Gallery Exhibitions: A space for artists to showcase their work in a professional setting.
Boutique: A platform for local artists to sell their creations, keeping 100% of their profits while paying only a small shelf fee each month.
Artist Studios: We provide five artist studios, four of which are available for rent on 6-12 month leases at affordable rates. These studios are designed to be accessible and conducive to creativity.
What Problems You Solve for Your Clients and What Sets You Apart from Others
Problem-Solving:
We address several critical issues that artists face:
Affordable Space: By offering reasonably priced studio spaces and a profit-friendly boutique model, we eliminate financial barriers for artists.
Representation: We provide a platform specifically aimed at increasing visibility and opportunities for artists of color, a group often underrepresented in the mainstream art world.
Community Support: Monarca Art Space fosters a sense of community and support among artists, creating a network of like-minded individuals who can collaborate and inspire each other.
Unique Aspects:
What sets Monarca Art Space apart is our holistic approach:
Inclusive Environment: Our focus on artists of color ensures that underrepresented voices have a place to shine.
Financial Model: Allowing artists to keep 100% of their profits from boutique sales is unique and significantly benefits the artists.
Comprehensive Offerings: By providing both exhibition space and working studios, we support artists at multiple stages of their creative process.
What Are You Most Proud Of?
Pride Points:
I am incredibly proud of the community we have built at Monarca Art Space. Seeing artists thrive, collaborate, and gain recognition for their work is the most rewarding part of this journey. We have hosted numerous successful exhibitions and have become a recognized name in Kansas City’s art scene.
What Are the Main Things You Want Potential Clients/Followers/Fans to Know About You/Your Brand/Your Work?
Key Messages:
Commitment to Diversity: Monarca Art Space is dedicated to better representation for artists of color, providing them with the opportunities and support they deserve.
Supportive Community: We are more than just a gallery or studio space; we are a community that values and nurtures each member’s creativity and success.
Accessibility: Our services are designed to be affordable and accessible, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder artistic expression.
Example Answer
Introduction:
My name is Vania Soto, and I am the founder and director of Monarca Art Space in Kansas City. My passion for art and commitment to supporting underrepresented artists led me to create a space where creativity can flourish without financial barriers.
Background:
I’ve been passionate about art since childhood, and after pursuing formal education in the arts, I recognized a significant gap in resources and spaces for artists of color. This realization, coupled with my own struggles to find an affordable and suitable space, inspired me to create Monarca Art Space.
Services and Offerings:
Monarca Art Space offers a range of services:
Gallery Exhibitions: Professional spaces for artists to showcase their work.
Boutique: A retail space where local artists sell their creations, keeping 100% of their profits and paying only a shelf fee.
Artist Studios: Affordable studio spaces available for 6-12 month leases, designed to support creative work.
Problem-Solving:
We solve critical issues such as the lack of affordable creative spaces and the underrepresentation of artists of color. Our unique profit model and supportive community environment set us apart from other art spaces.
Pride Points:
I am most proud of the vibrant, supportive community we have built. Our successful exhibitions and the recognition our artists receive are testaments to the impact we are making.
Key Messages:
Monarca Art Space is committed to diversity, community support, and accessibility. We strive to provide a nurturing environment where artists of color can thrive and succeed.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Lesson to Unlearn:
One significant lesson I had to unlearn was the belief that I couldn’t open a gallery on my own. Many people told me that I would need the support of an established entity or that I would have to become a non-profit to gain the necessary backing.
Backstory:
When I first envisioned Monarca Art Space, I received a lot of well-meaning advice suggesting that going solo would be too challenging. Friends, colleagues, and industry professionals insisted that the only viable way to succeed was by partnering with a larger entity or converting to a non-profit to access grants and support.
Initially, this advice made me second-guess my ability to create the gallery independently. The thought of relying on external support seemed daunting, and I worried it might compromise my vision for Monarca Art Space. However, the more I considered it, the more I realized that waiting for permission or support from others would delay or even derail my dream.
The Turning Point:
Determined to prove that I could succeed on my own terms, I decided to take the leap and open the gallery independently. This meant taking on the financial and operational challenges myself, but it also meant that I could fully realize my vision without external constraints.
The Outcome:
Opening Monarca Art Space independently turned out to be the best decision I ever made. Not only did it allow me to create a space that truly reflected my vision and values, but it also taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of believing in oneself. The success of Monarca Art Space is a testament to the fact that you don’t always need external validation or support to achieve your dreams.
Reflection:
Looking back, I’m grateful for the advice I received, even though I chose a different path. It pushed me to examine my own capabilities and reinforced my belief in the importance of pursuing my dreams without waiting for permission. This experience has been incredibly empowering and has shaped how I approach challenges and opportunities in my career.
Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.
The Journey from Side Hustle to Full-Time Career:
Yes, my side hustle indeed turned into my full-time career. Here’s how it all unfolded:
Starting the Side Hustle:
My journey began when I was laid off from my job at a newspaper. Initially, my plan was to find another position in a similar field. However, during this period of uncertainty, I started receiving more and more commission work for my art.
Transition to Full-Time:
As the commissions kept coming in, I found myself dedicating more time to my art. The demand for my work grew steadily, and I reached a point where I was essentially working full-time as an artist. This unexpected turn of events made me realize the potential of pursuing my passion as a career.
Key Milestones:
First Major Commission: One of the first significant milestones was landing a major commission that boosted my confidence and credibility as a professional artist.
Steady Flow of Work: As word spread about my work, I began receiving a steady flow of commissions, allowing me to sustain myself financially through art alone.
Need for a Creative Space: The increasing volume of work highlighted the need for a dedicated creative space. This realization was a turning point that led to the conception of Monarca Art Space.
Scaling Up to Monarca Art Space:
Realizing the need for a suitable space not just for myself but also for other artists in the community, I decided to create Monarca Art Space. This space would provide affordable studios, a gallery for exhibitions, and a boutique for selling art, supporting artists in ways I wished I had been supported earlier in my career.
Support from Art:
My art has been instrumental in financially supporting Monarca Art Space. The income from my commissions helped fund the initial setup and continues to contribute to the gallery’s sustainability.
Reflection:
What started as a side hustle born out of necessity turned into a fulfilling full-time career and the foundation of Monarca Art Space. The journey taught me the value of resilience and the importance of following one’s passion. Now, I am proud to offer a space that helps other artists in my community pursue their dreams just as I have pursued mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: www,monarcaartspace.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monarca.artspace/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Monarca-Art-Space-MÁS-100086234571792/?_rdr
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/monarca-art-space-kansas-city
Image Credits
Jim Barcus of that last picture of me by the window,