Check out our interview with Private Art dealer & Gallery Director Arushi Kapoor.
Follow Arushi @arushikapoor1
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Ambitious, attentive and assertive
Who is your role model?
When I was younger, it was coco Chanel. I always found her mysteriously intriguing. Now there’s several role models and mentors, for different things in life. There’s mentors within my family, there’s mentors for my curatorial workers, mentors for secondary market work, personal mentors. I’m a big believer in learner from the example of others. Look at what they’ve done, use the pros to your advantage.
How did you get started into the art dealing business?
While I was at USC Marshall, I had started a tech project that connected artists with art galleries. I had been indulged in the art industry for most of my life. By the time that I was 18, I had been a frequent at art Basel Switzerland. Art was intuitive for me so the project made sense. The app wasn’t successful but I made a huge network of people in the art world. Dealing in the secondary market made logical sense and I tried my hand at it. It was high risk high reward. One thing led to another and ‘ARUSHI’ was found as an organization. Then we slowly expanded into artist management and primary market dealing. Arushi Gallery current has two shows going on. One in Echo Park Los Angeles called ‘Lawless Reflections’ by Lindsay Dawn and other in Mayfair, London called ‘Street Dreams’ by the artist, Sellout.
How has this changed your life?
Art has not only changed my life, it runs my life. On a typical day, I start work at around 6 until maybe midnight. Everything in my life is about art. I would go ahead and even say, my life itself is art. Of course, there’s been major changes as I grow older. But that’s the usual wear and tear of growing up. As the organization has grown, I have built a lovely team. Life is busier but it’s made me value myself, my family and friends and my time more.
Tell us about your experience on this and why do you think ARTSop is different from other art dealers?
ARTSop Art Consulting is a Part of ‘Arushi’. ‘Arushi’ is an art organization that focuses on all aspects of the art world. We are full service to not only our clients, but also our artists. Arushi Gallery focuses on honing the skills of quality artists that are all asset class. The gallery provides artworks to celebrities and top clientele to people just starting to collect. Arushi Gallery doesn’t assign work based on the level of the collector. We are big on equality. All artworks are sold in first come first serve basis. Our secondary market, and art consulting, focuses on personal needs of the client. We try to educate the client as much as possible so they have tools to make future decisions with or without us. Our service is very honest and straight up and based on a lot of market research. I am reachable by anybody. My number and email are on my website.
What do you think is the secret to have a successful art dealing site/social media channels?
The secret is to make logical decisions and keep calm. The business is high risk and high reward. It’s important to be open to constantly learning and constantly sharing. An idea that’s kept to yourself can’t be executed well. You need to build a loyal team to grow and build.
Where we can view your catalog?
Our services are personalized. We have a roster of thousands of work. And the inventory changes daily. You can reach out to us and we will send you recommendations based on your personal needs.
What mindsets helped making you so successful?
Keep going. No matter what day and what time, nothing can break you if you don’t let it. Don’t add extra stress to your life. Stream line, don’t be negative and keep going.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far in the business?
The art world has a lot of scammers. Keep your eyes open and trust your instincts. If you doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. If it’s not right, leave.
Name your top 3 favorite artists/painters?
As of right now, Lindsay Dawn, Wonder Buhele and Robert Nava.
Any advice to entrepreneurs out there?
It’s going to be a hard day of work, embrace it. A flow state is important, don’t get attached to ideas.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
Art of War, Machiavelli
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
Sushi with Arushi, a book of conversations that stayed with me.
Now tell us about your art warehouse in LA and about the event with Lindsay Dawn “Lawless Reflections?”
Yes, our art warehouse, is also named after me ‘ARUSHI’. Lindsay’s style is unique. It’s figurative but also abstract. The idea of her work is also abstract but evokes conversation and emotions. This show is about all her individual personalities.
What is the toughest decision you had to make in the last few months?
To forgo work for my personal life. It’s always a hard decision.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Looking at these amazing artworks in person.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Acai Bowls. Do Sorbets count as healthy?
And your favorite cheat food?
I’m a pizza expert
How would you explain your fashion style?
Casual or extreme formal. I like extremes and making a statement.
How would your best friend describe you?
Pushy
What’s next for Arushi Kapoor in 2021?
An all female group show in October. And an all female NFT launch in December. Lindsay Dawn’s limited edition’s Launch in December.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Sleeping stress free at night is my definition of happiness.
How is a normal day in your life?
Work, family and close friends.
What is your idea of a perfect Sunday?
TV, food and cuddles.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Coco Chanel. Because there’s so much to know about her. Childhood obsessions don’t die.
Best advice ever given?
Take time for yourself. Don’t forget about yourself because you’re working all the time.
Do you support any charity?
Yes, a lot of charities in India. Top of the list is an orphanage for female children called Pranab Kanya Sangha.
You can’t get without giving back.
Name 3 things you can’t live without?
My phone, airpods and chapstick
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
In LA. With ARUSHI in a few more cities and a few more artists.
Favorite song? Why?
Tiny Dancer and circle of life. Both by Elton John.
What music do you like?
EDM or late 80s
What do you think of Social Media?
It’s a tool to be connected and connect and nothing more.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram @arushikapoor1
Photo Credit: Mara Friedman