AWAD is pleased to welcome Laura Galban as a Global Chapter Member. Laura is the founder and director of L’Artban an online gallery representing contemporary artists from Puerto Rico.
As is our practice with new members, we asked Laura to share with us some of her background and a bit about her business.
What is the name of your business and where are you located? when did you start?
l’Artban is located Boca Raton, FL, and started 2014
What is your professional background?
I worked at different museums such as The Hispanic Society in New York and Museo de Arte Reina Sofía in Madrid, Spain. When I moved to London in 2000 I was director of the cultural department at Canning House, a non-profit organization that promoted Latin America in the UK. I organized exhibitions, concerts and lectures. I learnt most of what I know and it has been the point of departure of l’Artban.
What inspired you to take the leap and start your own business?
The idea of creating something different where I could work directly with the artist developing his artistic career and at the same time promoting Puerto Rican artists outside of the island and trying to incorporate contemporary art from Puerto Rico into different collections.
What does your business offer, in terms of goods and services?
l’Artban offers art consultancy services and appraisals for private and corporate clients. Education services including exhibitions, publications and visiting artists programs.
What excites you about having joined the Association of Women Art Dealers?
Being able to work with a group of women from different nationalities and share our different experiences.
What brings you joy in your work?
I enjoy every aspect of my work, from seeing the latest work of one of the artist that I represent to organizing exhibitions and producing the catalogue; I also love being able to motivate a person to enjoy a work of art and introduce him/her into the art world.
A just for fun question: If you were a work of art what would you be and why?
Scheherezade by Rafael Trelles. I have always admired the character of Scheherazade. She represents resilience and she is fearless and creative. After seeing the drawing by Rafael Trelles I immediately felt she was my companion, transmitting calm and security in a difficult situation.
