Hi Courtney, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I studied Art History as Southern Methodist University and fell in love with it immediately. Learning about art, writing about art, and discussing art really clicked with me. While in college, I also wanted to learn about the business of art so I interned for a contemporary art gallery near campus. There I got to see every side of running an art gallery from art handling and exhibition planning to sales and client relations and I had the opportunity to work with some of the most talented artists in Texas.
My internship, fortunately, turned into a full-time position after college and I spent three formative years working there and learning the ropes before moving to New York City to pursue a graduate degree through the Sotheby’s Institute. Thinking I would only stay in New York for a couple of years, I ended up staying for almost nine! The energy in New York in unlike any other city and through positions with art galleries and advisors, I gained a much greater understanding of the art world. Living in New York was the most amazing experience but I always knew I wanted to branch out on my own as a private art advisor and move back home to Fort Worth. Though hard work has always played a role in my career, I was fortunate enough to have several incredible mentors along the way.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have been fortunate and I do not take that for granted. That said, I work in an industry where too often artists, arts educators, and those working in entry to mid-level positions in the art business are grossly underpaid. There is an income disparity in the arts but given the characteristically private nature of the art world, this is rarely discussed. Too many are employed by multi-million dollar art businesses yet barely making ends meet on their own.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an art advisor specializing in Contemporary Art. I work with private clients to help them collect pieces of art for their home or business. More than just “shopping” for things to match their home, my job is to research artists who best fit their collecting interests and budget and procure pieces that I believe hold value. I am most proud when I not only accomplish those tasks but when I also place works that bring joy to the client. When a client feels happy and proud every time they see that artwork, then I’ve done my job. Additionally, it can be daunting to buy art (it’s a big investment!) so I aim to make the acquisition process as easy and fun as possible for my clients.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Gratitude. Success does not happen in a vacuum. Persistence doesn’t hurt either.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@cmgartadvisory.com
- Website: cmgartadvisory.com
- Instagram: @courtneymcgrail
Image Credits
Headshots by Tamara Gorski
