Today we’d like to introduce you to James Arsin.
Hi James, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Absolutely. My story begins with my family’s deep-rooted connection to the rug industry. Growing up, I was surrounded by the work of my father and grandfather, who were both highly respected in the business. By the time I was 18, I knew I wanted to carry on that legacy, but I also wanted to make my own mark on the industry.
My journey started with a transformative internship in Uzbekistan. During my time there, I learned everything there was to know about rugs, from their intricate designs to the craftsmanship that goes into making them. It was in Uzbekistan that I found my passion for the design process and realized how much creativity goes into this craft.
In 2013, I moved to the U.S. to join my brother in the business. While I had a strong foundation in rug design, I quickly discovered another passion — business. I spent three years working at Slocum Rug Gallery, honing my skills and learning how to merge artistry with strategy.
By 2017, I felt ready to take a leap and opened Arsin Rug Gallery in Dallas. My goal was to modernize the rug industry by collaborating directly with designers, redesigning classic pieces to give them a transitional feel, and leveraging the power of social media to connect with clients. These efforts paid off, and the gallery has grown steadily over the years, with 2021 being our most successful year yet.
Today, alongside my wife, we’re building something we’re proud of. We live in Dallas with our two sons, Cameron and Ryan, and hope to inspire them to carry on the family tradition while bringing their own vision to the industry, just as I’ve done.
This journey has been about blending tradition with innovation, and I’m excited for what the future holds as we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the rug business.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It certainly hasn’t been a completely smooth road—what meaningful journey ever is? There have been plenty of challenges along the way that have shaped who we are as a business.
One of the toughest periods was 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The shutdowns and uncertainty created a challenging environment for everyone, including us. With fewer in-person interactions and events, we had to quickly pivot and find ways to adapt, including leaning more heavily on our online presence and social media to maintain connections with our clients. It was a time that tested our resilience and forced us to innovate.
Another ongoing challenge is managing such a large and ever-changing inventory. With over 12,000 rugs in our collection and each piece being unique, keeping everything organized and accessible while ensuring our offerings remain fresh and relevant can feel like a juggling act. It’s a constant effort to streamline processes and improve systems to keep up with demand and the dynamic nature of the business.
Despite these challenges, each obstacle has taught us valuable lessons. They’ve made us stronger, more innovative, and more adaptable. The struggles remind us why we do what we do and motivate us to keep pushing forward. At the end of the day, the joy of connecting clients with the perfect rug and seeing their spaces transformed makes it all worthwhile.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
One of the most exciting aspects of my work is using my experience in the business to design my own line of rugs. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with designers, understanding their needs, preferences, and creative visions. This insight has allowed me to develop collections that I know designers will lean into and love. Each collection reflects a fusion of classical artistry and modern trends, ensuring our offerings remain relevant and sought after.
I’m incredibly proud of how we’ve been able to modernize the business while staying true to our family’s legacy. 2023 was a standout year for us, showcasing the success of our efforts to grow and innovate. Additionally, I take great pride in offering personalized experiences that help our clients find the perfect rug for their spaces.
Looking to the future, I’m excited to continue designing and expanding this aspect of our business. My goal is to create rugs that not only meet the evolving needs of designers but also redefine how people see and use rugs in their homes and spaces.
At the heart of it all, what makes this work so rewarding is knowing that our rugs become a part of people’s lives, enhancing their spaces and helping them tell their own stories.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is family and the legacy we’re building together. My family’s journey in the rug industry has been a source of inspiration and pride for me throughout my life. Carrying on the traditions and values passed down by my father and grandfather while adding my own vision is deeply meaningful to me.
Beyond the business, my wife, Meloudi, and our two sons, Cameron and Ryan, are my greatest source of motivation. Everything I do is with them in mind. I want to create a life where they can see the value of hard work, creativity, and dedication. My dream is for our sons to grow up with the same passion for the rug industry that I gained from my family, while also finding their own paths to contribute to it.
In terms of the business, what matters most is creating something lasting and meaningful — rugs that are not only beautiful but also bring warmth, elegance, and comfort to people’s homes. I take great pride in designing collections that resonate with designers and clients, and in knowing that each rug becomes part of someone’s story.
Ultimately, family and the connections we build — whether through the rugs we create or the values we instill in the next generation — are what drive me every day. It’s about honoring the past while creating something that will carry us into the future.
Contact Info:
- Website: arsinruggallery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arsinruggallery/#
