Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharon Moskowitz.
Sharon, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
It started as a passion to follow and support local arts organizations and arts groups that were making a difference in their communities. Grew into active arts advocacy. Member of American for the Arts, (past) Chair for Roswell Cultural Arts Council. This began research and studying artists, economic impact and networking in the cultural landscape of a vibrant arts community. Now part of the mission of srmART connect. To best describe, I offer varieties of levels of connections. To assist the artists, collectors, buyers, interior designers, event designers the opportunity to meet one another and to effectively/positively utilize in a “healthy” space and to create and support pro-active projects for these incredibly talented artists. As they work in the studios to produce their art, I will help sell it on many platforms, face to face, social media, refer to a gallery (that fits their mission), as well as share their vision locally and universally. In public spaces, installations and commercial opportunities. The ultimate end result is a profitable income for the artists and a win-win for all parties involved.
Currently, in the workings, there will be a fully operational srmARTconnect.com website that you will be able to “walk” through a virtual gallery, and aquire the art that grabs your soul and see value in both the art and artist.
What a great journey so far! An absolute privilege to represent emerging, mid-career and well-established artists in many art disciplines throughout the country.
Has it been a smooth road?
I am a small operation, doing it all. I am so fortunate to also have the role/position as the Manager of Conant Performing Arts Center on the Oglethorpe University campus (proud alum!) in the City of Brookhaven/Atlanta. So, juggling is a true challenge that I am up for.
Time is truly precious and making time for artists and traveling throughout the city and suburbia to learn from the artist first and foremost, so that I can connect and advocate for them.
Without a doubt, so impressed with the many large art consulting firms, however, I am very organic with the process. I am taking one artist partnership at a time. A mission never to lose sight of the artist behind the brush, clay, metal medium. To see and observe their space/studio/cave and be completely engaged, and explore THEIR story, technique, and process.
I don’t just love their work – loving them for their contributions is tremendously gratifying. Adding value to the cultural landscape and promoting them where they are valued, accomplished and increase their revenue and notable reputation. Just wish there were more hours in the day!
I have the best of two worlds. Watching students in the arts reach their dreams on stage and in the classroom and following my arts passion as a business. Having support from the Oglethorpe community and incredible mentor(s) cheering me on with this type of advocacy, well it is empowering.
The more I network, the easier it will get. So many dynamic partnerships and projects that can only bring me and those involved, equal success.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
My work is about the artist’s work. Since I am not an artist, I believe I can offer advice and consult with what the buyer or client and what they are asking for. The artist will always have their own voice, just trying to build their confidence as well as offer connections that they have not thought about or ultimately where or want to be at.
I am proud that artists of all disciplines, trust and allow me into their world. My brand /style is really – what you get is an ear to bend, a cheerleader and their biggest advocate.
I have been known as a “connector” for as long as I can remember! It is my ingrained in my personality and my very sagittarius traits. Staying passionate, energetic and up to the challenge. I do have a 30-year career in the events industry and 20 years of advocating for the arts. I would say, these paths reflect longevity and commitment.
What I believe sets me apart that all I want to be is be genuine with the artists who are building their career, portfolio and help to create their destiny.
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
I do come from that older generation of poor behavior in the workplace. Thankfully, I learned fast to speak up for myself and as my father taught my sister and I “don’t take any sh-t from anyone. ” Always a Jersey girl at heart in the wonderful south!
Having three (beautiful and amazing) daughters. We (with my husband of 33 years) hope we have raised them to stand true to who they are and want to be in life. And, always have their integrity in check.
There is a true “art” in communication. no matter male or female, stand up and stand down when you just can’t agree. There are so many great networks where you can go to share and express with fellow professional women to share similar experiences and where you feel that you are never alone. I hope the reader of this interview will reach out and want to hear more.
I think there is always a place for healthy dialogue and mutual respect with all sexes. No matter professionally or personally. The relationships/friendships you develop, should never be taken for granted. In my case, in this business that I have created, having a support system in place, carries over with the artists I advocate for.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.srmartconnect.com
- Phone: 404.307.9378
- Email: srmevents@gmail.com
- Instagram: @srmartconnect
- Facebook: @srmartconnect
Image Credit:
Terrell Clark for the image of NYC Show with Lynx
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
