Meet Trailblazer Alyssia Leggett

So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started my web-based gallery after working in the marketing/advertising industry for 18 years. My career began at Turner Entertainment in Atlanta, and then I transitioned to agency life where I had the opportunity to work with some incredible brands and people. While I was ready for a change, it was all of that experience that helped prepare me to start and run my own business; ultimately allowing me to get back to one of my favorite things… ART! In November of 2018, I officially launched Jenner McGinn Studio, a web-based art gallery with popup events throughout Atlanta. I am now an independent art broker, representing 13 contemporary artists from across the country. I feel so fortunate to be able to share such beautiful art from artists that I have so much admiration and respect for. Building relationships with the artists, visiting their studios and knowing their stories are really important to me… it all adds more meaning to each piece of art that I select to feature. I also host monthly workshops and summer camps for children, with the goal of inspiring the next generation of artists. I feel so lucky to have landed where I am right now and am grateful to everyone who has helped me get here. A huge THANK YOU for following along and supporting me and the artists that are a part of Jenner McGinn Studio!

Has it been a smooth road?
In any new venture, there are sure to be some surprises and challenges. The biggest thing that I have learned so far is that this business is very unpredictable… you never know when someone will be ready to buy an original painting! One of the artists that I represent told me early on that it is easy to ride the highest highs, and get stuck in the lowest lows. Trying to find the balance in those has been the trick for me. Weeks when I sell several paintings, I feel like I’ve got this whole thing figured out, and then a slow week reminds me that there is still a lot more I have to learn. Since I am a company of one, the effort that goes into managing my business can sometimes be overwhelming. My previous career in the agency world had specific jobs for each aspect of the business – I was on the account services side and worked with copywriters, designers, photographers, developers, project managers, analytics experts, traffickers, financial services and more – now, I wear all of those hats. It is up to me to get all of the work done, and after having some very good examples, I have high expectations for myself. I have lots of late nights, often have step to out of my comfort zone, and I make plenty of mistakes… but I’m grateful to have the opportunity to build a company that is meaningful to me, supports hard-working artists, and allows me to have the flexibility to spend more time with my family. On days when I question myself and wonder if I’m on the right path, I try to step back and look at what I’ve created in just 10 months. For anyone starting out, I think it is important to remember that it is in the struggles where we gain perspective; that serves as a big motivator for me. Nothing is easy when you start from the ground up, but give yourself some grace, surround yourself with people who are supportive, and most importantly, don’t give up.

What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I represent contemporary artists from across the country. While I am based in Atlanta, I created my business to make art accessible to everyone through an online gallery. I also show art by appointment and host fun popup events around the city, often partnering with other local businesses. I work with 13 talented artists from 13 different states and have a variety of styles, sizes and price points. My goal is to give everyone the opportunity to own original art that makes them happy and helps to create a space that is meaningful. I love the idea of quality over quantity – especially when it comes to art and home decor. I always recommend that people invest in something they truly love and appreciate, not something to just match the pillows on their sofa. I collaborate with clients and interior designers to find the right piece of art. Whether it be a large piece for a new home, a small piece to add a pop of color on a bookshelf, or a special occasion piece that is commissioned… it is so much fun to be a part of the process. Listening and learning what clients envision allows me to share suggestions of artists and specific paintings. Art is often the finishing touch on a space; it can be a focus with a bold piece, or it can be subtle with something more neutral, but it always helps to create a feeling. I love having the ability to show clients what a piece of art would like in their actual space through the power of technology… this helps for people who live far away or those who just want to visualize how a certain painting will look. I am really working to make buying original art less intimidating; creating a fun and easy environment where clients can purchase something they love!

We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
I feel very fortunate to be working in an industry that is full of female leaders. Looking at other galleries, many are owned by women and have great support for female artists. I also had some incredible female bosses and mentors when I worked at agencies and come from a family of strong women. All of that helped give me the confidence and courage to start my own business. My biggest challenge has been as a working mom, and I often hear the same thing from other women as well. I’ve worked full time, part-time, and now, running my own company, while having two children. In my previous career, I felt a lot of guilt – if I were at work, I felt like I was missing out on time my kids or not doing enough at home. But, when I was with my kids during the day, I felt like I wasn’t giving my job my best effort. I often felt judged based on my decisions. The truth is that every working mom has to find what works for her and her family, there is no one right way to do it… and I think more employers need to understand and respect that. If you want to be at your kid’s soccer practice or volunteer at their school, then do it. Setting boundaries and having clear priorities is key to losing the guilt and finding the right balance. For me, having two daughters in elementary school, I love that they are watching me build a business with a front-row seat. They get to celebrate the successes with me, learning that hard work pays off. And they see that even when everything doesn’t goes as planned, I still keep going, understanding the importance of determination and persistence. One of my biggest goals is to set a good example for my girls; encouraging them to take risks, to pursue their ambitions without guilt, and know that they are capable of doing big things… in hopes that they will be part of the next generation of strong female leaders.

Pricing:

• Original art doesn’t have to break the bank…work that I represent starts at $60.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jennermcginnstudio.com
• Phone: 678-595-2595
• Email: alyssia@jennermcginnstudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennermcginnstudio/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennermcginnstudio/

Image Credit:
Maura Roberts (headshot image)

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