Member Spotlight: artstudio 1.0.1
Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights…
Photography by Scott Foust Studios.
In 2000, Faye Urlacher capitalized on her background in art and interior design to launch artstudio 101. A full-service art consulting firm with a decidedly personalized, collaborative approach, artstudio 101 has developed relationships with galleries, artists, and dealers both locally and across the country, emerging as a leading consultancy with a loyal following. It should be noted that the artstudio 101 team itself is a loyal group, with an all-woman team boasting decades of work together.
Recently, we chatted with Faye and the artstudio 101 team about art, small business ownership, the community, and what’s on the walls…
Editor’s Note: Hemingway, debuts as Faye’s co-star in artstudio 101’s Volume 2 feature. While he’s been a part of the artstudio 101 team since 2014, he’s often caught sleeping on the job.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Artstudio 101 has a storied history in Phoenix. Can you take us back to the year 2000 and share what inspired you to take the entrepreneurial leap?
Faye Urlacher: I opened artstudio 101 when I realized that I could apply years of experience in the design field, my passion for art, and my natural organizational skills to a specialized business that takes a truly personal approach with every client.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: You recently celebrated 20 years in business. What has been your favorite part of being a small business owner?
Faye Urlacher: I am blessed to have amazing co-workers and a beautiful bright space to work in every day. We work with great clients on special projects. It’s truly a pleasure being able to do what I do…. 20 years have gone by in a blink!
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Do you have a favorite project or client?
Faye Urlacher: All are unique, which makes it impossible to select one standout project or client. Recently, we had the privileged to work with CALA, a new boutique hotel in Old Town Scottsdale. And we were thrilled with the results on our collaboration with Creighton School of Medicine, which called for specialized custom pieces from local and national artists with thrilling results.
Photography by Scott Foust Studios.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Over two decades, artstudio 101 has worked on a vast number of projects across a variety of industries. What has been the guiding pricinple? The vision that has charted artstudio 101’s course?
Faye Urlacher: Our philosophy is based on accessibility and simplicity.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Let’s break that down. What do you mean by accessibility?
Faye Urlacher: We work with clients of every size, budget, concept, and space, offering a fresh take from our highly-skilled consultants.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: How does artstudio 101 simplify the process?
Faye Urlacher: We serve as the single point of contact for artwork requirements, collaborating with clients on every step of the project, from initial conceptualization and budgeting to final installation.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Can you explain your decision to operate as a consultancy rather than a traditional gallery.
Faye Urlacher: By operating as consultants our team has been able to nurtured an unparalleled network of galleries, collections, vendors, and artists. This decision has also allowed us to develop the highest standards in affordable custom framing, as well as artwork handling, installation, and storage. In short, we can offer a comprehensive experience for our clients.
“Our philosophy is based on simplicity.”
Faye Urlacher, Owner of artstudio 101.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: We know that artstudio 101 collaborates with corporate and healthcare clients, but understand that the demand from residential clients is increasing dramatically. What does art consulting for a residential project look like?
Faye Urlacher: First, it’s important to note that many homeowners think hiring an art consultant is out of their budget. However, we work with designers and homeowners on projects and budgets of every size. Artstudio 101 collaborates on everything from one statement piece to outfitting the whole house.
Photography by Scott Foust Studios.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What else should Arizonans know about artstudio 101?
Faye Urlacher: We are open for in-person visits. With an ever-changing space filled with a collection of ready-to-purchase art pieces, as well as framing and design services, we’re a wonderful resource for interior designers, homeowners, and art lovers.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: As an industry expert, what advice would you give to art collectors?
Faye Urlacher: Don’t underestimate the impact of a great frame!
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: As a longtime local and art expert, do you have any recommendations for those interested in immersing themselves in the art scene?
Faye Urlacher: First Friday’s Art Walk is a great way to discover Downtown Phoenix artists!
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Aside from our vibrant art scene, what do you love about living and working in the Valley?
Faye Urlacher: I love the ease of living in the Valley – it’s a big growing city that maintains a small-town feel. It helps that we have so many great neighborhoods in which hosting a block party or community movie night is still a “thing.”
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Can you share a few of your local favorites?
Faye Urlacher: I’m a regular at The Henry, LGO, and The Lola. Steak 44 is my spot for a great cocktail.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: And finally, are there any local charities or organizations close to your heart? Given your Volume 2 co-star, we have an inkling…
Faye Urlacher: We are animal lovers, as you can tell by our resident cat, Hemingway! So, we are drawn to organizations that assist them, including Arizona Humane Society and HALO Animal Rescue. Additionally, given our frequent work with health care organizations, we proudly donate to the Ronald McDonald House of Charities.
To learn more about artstudio 101, their services, expertise, and process, head to artstudio-101.com. And don’t forget to tell them Scout sent you!
