Today we’d like to introduce you to Liza Shapiro.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Liza. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I grew up in Ojai, California, where I started taking painting classes an early age and continued with that influential art teacher for many years. She was instrumental in encouraging my love for the arts. From preschool through to high school, I attended Oak Grove School, founded by J. Krishnamurti, the Indian speaker, educator and writer. The school encouraged creativity, critical thinking and independence, which influenced my choice to move across the world right after high school.
I moved to Florence, Italy, at age 17 to study art restoration at the Lorenzo de’ Medici Institute. I knew early on that I wanted to pursue a career related to this intriguing field and moved to London, where I spent the next ten years. During this time, I completed a BA in art conservation at Camberwell College of Art and an MA in Museum Studies at University College London. I also worked in a variety of arts institutions including the Redfern Gallery, where I met my business partner, Georgia Powell. Georgia and I bonded over our love of Italy and realized a shared concern for providing a more focused approach to the management and preservation of private collections. Seven years ago, we wrote a business plan for CURA, which developed into what it is today. Georgia’s background in Art History complements my experience and knowledge and together we bring a broad, comprehensive approach to collections management.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The experience of starting a business based in two different countries has been challenging, but we believe that something worthwhile is not usually simple or easy. Ultimately, we both appreciate that we have learned so much from this process.
Both Georgia and I have had challenges with regard to marketing ourselves. Collections management does not automatically sound exciting and fun, so it was somewhat difficult creating a concept that feels inspiring to potential clients and others in the field. The art world is notoriously difficult, but we have been astounded and gratified by the incredible support by so many professionals in Los Angeles and London.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Cura – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
CURA, based in Los Angeles and London, provides a personal approach to the management and care of varied collections. We offer specialized advice and services that focus on the long-term preservation and legacy of each collector’s passion and investment. From working with art advisors to managing conservation, display, loans, insurance, and estate planning, CURA ensures that each collection is enhanced. We also support stewardship and encourage responsible collecting through discussion and practice.
We are proud of our ability to work with clients and projects on a personal, approachable level, no matter how large or small. We focus on a comprehensive approach to all things collections management while staying objective since we are not art advisors or involved in acquisitions.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
We are looking forward to expanding our business and connecting with more collectors, artists and galleries in the process. Next year we will be launching the CURA Collectors Club that will offer monthly memberships. In addition to our services, each membership will be a platform for collectors to share their passions, interests and collections through a program of events and a shared network.
We will be planning an event next March in partnership with a LA gallery so stay tuned!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.curaart.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cura_art_
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/cura_art_
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