Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nathan Vonk, owner of Sullivan Goss Gallery, located in Santa Barbara, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We sell contemporary, modern, and historical American art. Our customers are people who want to fill their homes with beautiful things that are more than simply decorations and come with stories about the history of the artist or the artwork. We want our customers to take home pieces that they will be excited to show to their friends at dinner parties, where they will share the stories that come with each piece.

Tell us about yourself

I've always been an art lover and collector, so becoming an art dealer was a way to make a vocation out of something that I loved. I come to work every day hoping to be able to share my enthusiasm for art and the artwork that we exhibit.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I'm most proud that I was able to keep our gallery thriving throughout the pandemic.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Never being able to really get time off to unplug totally. Even on vacation, I have to answer the phone or emails to clients regardless of where I am or when it might be.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Be as passionate about your audience as you are about what you do.
  2. Don't be afraid to be wrong.
  3. Collaborate whenever possible.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.sullivangoss.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sullivangossgallery
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sullivangoss/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sullivangoss

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.