How a layoff inspired the first marketplace for art services

The story of ARTSRVE begins with a layoff.

I spent the better part of my twenties moving between roles in tech and advertising, desperately seeking more meaningful work. I knew I wanted to make a change, but I didn't know how. So I did what many people in my position do: I waited.

During my free time, I immersed myself in the Chicago art community. I frequented museums, enrolled in courses at the School of the Art Institute, and enjoyed my fair share of complimentary wine at gallery openings.

When my employer dumped me and 29,999 of my colleagues via text, it took me less than 30 seconds to decide to take my future into my own hands. I spent the next month establishing an art advisory, and it was...overwhelming.

I had to balance learning about the art market with creating a website, registering my business, identifying and vetting vendors, traveling to art fairs, meeting with artists, and so much more. Not to mention the most challenging part: finding clients.

The art world is all about who you know. But what if you don't know the "right" people? Or, better yet, what if you don't know anyone? I looked at platforms like TaskRabbit, Upwork, and Fiverr and was disappointed to find no equivalent for the art world. So I decided to create one.

ARTSRVE makes it easy for collectors and institutions to find and book independent art professionals. We spent months talking to artists, photographers, advisors, appraisers, collectors, gallerists, museum professionals, and many others. The result is a platform customized for the art world and all of its quirks.

My hope is for it to allow current and future generations of art entrepreneurs to earn a living while doing what they love.

ARTSRVE is now open.

I hope you all enjoy using it as much as I enjoyed creating it.

Stephon