Today we’d like to introduce you to Ki Smith.
Hi Ki, 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?
I guess I began working in the arts officially at the age of 16 when I got kicked out of school and ended up getting a job at the Storefront for Art and Architecture instead of going back to school. A lot has happened since then, including owning an illegal nightclub, running a gallery/collective, tour managing, working in architecture, etc., but in 2018 I opened Ki Smith Gallery which I still own and operate today.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Nothing is smooth, resilience, grit and patience are all necessary in order to see the fruits of your labor bloom.
It’s hard to count the struggles but I guess everything from being arrested to selling $50K of artwork in five days to removing 26k pounds of concrete from the new gallery location.
I think it’s important to work hard, work persistently and find ways to make things happen because things don’t do themselves.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Ki Smith Gallery disrupts standard industry practice by representing a carefully-selected group of artists with diverse backgrounds, methods, and aesthetics. Our artists are encouraged to explore materials and processes and we actively support them in making exciting new works. We immerse ourselves in each exhibition from conception to execution.
The gallery works closely with our collectors to help them create meaningful collections. We take pride in helping them not only understand the intentions of the artist but also consider their own personal and emotional connections to the work.
Although we take the larger trends and conversations of other galleries and auction houses into consideration, we consider our peers to be the artists, patrons, and friends that are active parts of our community. We are compelled by a deep love and respect for art and are always searching for imaginative ways of sharing it with others.
What makes you happy?
Building up the careers of artists is truly what brings me joy.
Paintings and sculptures don’t sell themselves, and it is an honor and a privilege to build up markets together with the artists.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kismithgallery.com/
- Instagram: @kismithgallery
Image Credits
Jake Borden Sean Patrick Waters
