Inspiring Conversations with Rachel Cole

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Cole.

Hi Rachel, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My interest in art was initially sparked when I was an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan. When I graduated and began working in the art world, I gained experience in different institutional settings but within a relatively short period of time, I realized that art advising would be my forte. I love being that bridge between really noteworthy artists and compelling public or private collections. I continue to grow as a professional but the academic foundations that first drew me to the art world are always with me.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I’m not sure that any road to a really successful career is smooth because the bumps and twists are often what position us to make a real impact. But I love what I do and believe so wholeheartedly in the importance of art that I am invigorated by the struggles. Unfortunately, the art world can feel somewhat exclusive and hard to break into. As a young woman, it can feel like I have to work that much harder to be taken seriously. Fortunately, this is a topic that is becoming more prevalent in the public discourse. My response has not been to get discouraged but to ask how I can contribute to making the art world more transparent, diverse, and accessible to more people.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I have two complementary businesses: Rachel Cole Art Advisory, which is established, and Romulus, which is launching soon. I opened RCAA in 2019 and focus on placing minority artists who have been historically underrepresented in the public art space, including women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ artists. Alongside RCAA, I am developing Romulus: a web and app-based platform that is designed to make the logistics of art collecting more seamless. As an advisor, I work very closely with individuals who are committed to building an expansive collection that grows over time. With Romulus, I am able to serve collectors at every stage.

What matters most to you?
To me, what matters most in this field is trust. The art world is not a highly regulated place, which means that professional integrity is one of the most important things I can offer. In fact, one of the main reasons I decided to work for myself was to ensure that my clients are receiving the most honest, fair, and transparent service possible. This way, that responsibility is entirely mine! Beyond that, my new company, Romulus, makes a point of creating a social forum for art collectors so that they can share ideas and discuss their experiences. I see dialogue between collectors as one of the most effective ways to safeguard ethical practices and hold the art world accountable.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.rachelcoleartadvisory.com
• Instagram: @rachelcoleartadvisor and @romulus.art.ig