Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Rafacz.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I began exhibiting local artists in my apartment in Pilsen in the early 2000’s. I was connected to the creative scene in Chicago through my love for music in particular and met many visual artists who were also musicians or close with many of them. It was a very organic beginning. When you started an exhibition space, you have to get ahead of your own schedule and book enough shows to not always be worried about what you will do next. I was struck by how open and supportive the community was to my intentions. From the beginning, I really enjoyed the hands-on existence of running a gallery day-to-day.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The art business can be a difficult one, but the rewards are great too. I have been very lucky to do what I do, but it has also been a struggle to evolve and scale my business up, especially with the volatility in our economy in general over the last ten years. But I’m still here!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Andrew Rafacz – what should we know?
I own a contemporary art gallery that specializes in presenting and representing emerging to mid-career artists practicing in all mediums. We are known for taking chances and exhibiting work that is thoughtful, singular and well executed or produced. We specialize in showing up-and-coming artists who are destined for long careers! Often, we are there first commercial gallery exhibition of note!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I am only successful because of the large and dynamic support system that is dedicated to our mission. We have amazing clients who collect regularly from our artists and exhibitions. We have incredible artists in our roster that understand deeply that our professional relationship is also tethered by a friendship and that we are collaborating together. I have the full dedication of my intelligent and talented director, Nataliya Kotlova, who in the last year or so has brought the gallery to a new level. I have a community of creative people around me that enrich my life in general!
Contact Info:
- Address: 835 W. Washington Boulevard
2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60607 - Website: www.andrewrafacz.com
- Phone: 3124049188
- Email: info@andrewrafacz.com
- Instagram: @andrewrafaczgallery
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrewrafaczgallery
- Twitter: @andrewrafacz
Image Credit:
Photos courtesy of Andrew Rafacz Gallery. Photo credits: Heather Halbert (image 1, 2, and 5) and Aron Gent (image 3 and 4).
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
