AWAD is pleased to welcome Daria Pletneva to AWAD’s NYC Chapter. She is the founder of Arti NYC.
As is our practice with new members, we asked Daria to share 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?
The business is located in New York City. We started in 2016.
What is your professional background?
I am a professional journalist, and I believe it’s very important to find your niche in this job. So being in the university, I decided to specialize in arts and culture. The current art scene always spoke better to me about the mood in society, politics, and even historical events. I liked to analyze how certain events are reflected in art. So I was writing about art.
What inspired you to take the leap and start your own business?
I moved to New York from Moscow in 2012 and had a unique chance to start my life from scratch. I asked myself what I wanted to be, how I wanted to define myself, and the answer was easy – in the perfect world, I saw myself as an art dealer. I decided to pursue that, although it seemed close to impossible. I started educating myself and getting to know the industry.
In 2015 I helped my partner launch an art services company, ARTI Services, and one year later, I started my ARTI.NYC. In the beginning, I was doing what I was good at. I was publishing a small art magazine, telling my artists’ stories and gaining audience for them and myself. And slowly, I moved to the common gallerist activities – organizing exhibitions, participating in the art fairs, partnering with online retailers, etc.
What does your business offer, in terms of goods and services?
We sell contemporary art, organize studio visits worldwide, and offer private viewings, art advisory, and a trade program.
What excites you about having joined the Association of Women Art Dealers?
After having kids, I have realized how powerful women actually are. I’m proud to be a female entrepreneur, and I’m proud of other women too. I think it’s important that we support each other and tell the world about ourselves. Pursuing your dreams in such an elegant business is challenging, and we are all in this together.
What brings you joy in your work?
People! Both artists and collectors are wonderful individuals. I think welcoming art to your life in one way or another makes you special. And I love being surrounded by extraordinary people.
If you were a work of art, what piece would you be and why?
I had my portrait sketched by Jacob El Hanani. It’s a fun caricature, and that’s very me. There is always something in me to laugh about!
