AWAD is pleased to welcome Michele Hembree of MGH Discovered Art as our newest AWAD NYC chapter member.
As is our practice with new members, we asked Michele to share some of her background and a bit about her business.
What is your professional background?
I started as a graphic designer, became a stay at home mom and during that time volunteered with the Oakland Museum of California. During my 10+ years as a volunteer I worked alongside curators, artists, docents, designers and art professors. Learning about curating collections, appraising, research, process, art movements and framing, primed me for starting my own business.
What inspired you to take the leap and start your own business?
Seeing how many great artists are “undiscovered” for whatever reason, made me want to share their art and introduce it to the world.
What does your business offer, in terms of goods and services?
MGH Discovered Art offers: original and vintage art; framing services; curated collections; and wholesale and trade benefits.
What excites you about having joined the Association of Women Art Dealers?
Being inspired by women in the business, hearing their triumphs and failures and learning from their experiences.
If you were a work of art, what piece would you be and why?
Tamara de Lempicka’s “Self Portrait” because she was considered a symbol of women’s liberation. And my work gives me especially great pride and meaning to shine light on women artists whose work has been hidden in the shadows.
