Hi all,
Welcome to our ongoing Q&A feature, where we introduce a member of the Artfinder team to our community. This time, we speak with Richie, our new Curator.
Q: Could you start by introducing yourself to our community?
I’m Richie. I’ve been living in Bristol with my wife for five years, though I originally grew up in Wiltshire. I’ve spent the last 13 years working in the creative industries, primarily as a picture framer, but also as a sales consultant for several galleries and I’ve been running my own picture framing business here in Bristol. My work has always kept me close to both the creative process and the business side of the art world, which is a balance I really enjoy.
Q: How long have you worked with Artfinder and what is your role in the company?
This is my first week! I’ve just joined the team as a Curator, and I’m really excited to get stuck in.
Q: What have been your highlights of working with Artfinder so far?
After being self-employed for the past five years, it’s genuinely refreshing to be part of a team again, especially one full of passionate, like-minded art lovers. It's also been a joy to discover such a vast range of incredible new artists through Artfinder.
Q: Do you come from a creative background? Do you engage in creative activities yourself?
Yes! I studied Fine Art at Brighton, specialising in printmaking, a medium I’m still passionate about and actively practice today. Since graduating, I’ve worked as a freelance artist on a wide range of creative projects. Notably, I’ve collaborated with Glastonbury Festival for several years, contributing to immersive and interactive art installations. I’ve also led creative printmaking and painting workshops.
Q: What does working for a B Corp mean to you?
Having worked in the arts for over a decade, I can say that B Corps are pretty rare in this industry. That’s one of the things that makes Artfinder so special. Its commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and equality really helps challenge some of the traditional stereotypes of the visual arts world, and that’s something I’m proud to be a part of.
Q: What do you like doing in your spare time?
I’m currently focused on building an art and framing studio in my garden. I’m also a bit of an art enthusiast and have built up a fairly large collection of prints over the years. Outside of that, I enjoy playing video games, the cinema, and exploring Bristol’s vibrant creative scene, whether it’s catching gigs, going to theatre shows, or checking out local exhibitions.
Q: The past few years have been challenging with world events such as Covid and the War in Ukraine. How do you look after your mental health when going through difficult times?
I actually started my business in September 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic, and the same year as brexit so I’ve had first-hand experience navigating some very uncertain times. It was definitely testing, but I learned a lot about myself during this time. I find it relatively easy to switch off when I need to, and I’m not naturally someone who worries too much. I try to focus on what I can control to stay grounded. That balance helps me handle difficult times in a healthy and productive way.
Q: If you could take only three items with you to a desert island, what would they be?
I’d take a hammock for comfort, an Aperol spritz, and a flare gun, because eventually, I’ll want to be rescued…
Q: Finally, do you have any message for our community?
I’m thrilled to be part of Artfinder and to support such a passionate and talented community of artists and collectors. I can’t wait to discover more incredible work and contribute to something that puts creativity and care at the heart of everything it does. Thanks for having me!
