It is with great pleasure that we pay it forward and share success stories from our peers. Here's one about Trudy.

The short story is that I've just opened my first art gallery, 2 years after starting my business and 3.5 years after holding my first art exhibition and 'moonlighting' in the art world while working in corporate America.  And, I have to say that I LOVE MY LIFE!  I'm working harder than ever, but it doesn't feel like 'work'.  Every day is a thrill and I love helping people find great art they love. It makes SUCH a difference to be surrounded by beautiful art that inspires, uplifts and enriches. 

Where Trudy comes from:

- I worked in corporate Europe/America for 12 years, in marketing and corporate communications/public relations (PR). Once I started the business I moonlighted for a while, testing the concept and then went part time to see if it was really viable before jumping in full time.
- Art has always been a passion, and I looked for a way to become involved with promoting artists. My mother is a talented painter but always avoided marketing herself and so I wanted to help promote her and be rewarded for her creative skills, both critically and financially.
- I decided to use my business and marketing skills in the art world, starting artist competitions which were judged by guest curators and gallery owners. Spurred on by over $10,000 in sales on the opening night of her first art exhibition, and requests for her help in buying art, Trudy decided to start an art consulting business, Blue Tangerine Art. 

Where Tudy is Headed:

- I'm often asked about the name, which just came to me one day in a flash. Since so much of the art world is intimidating to outsiders, I wanted a name that was creative, irreverant and memorable.  It also had to reflect our philosophy of being bold yet approachable, providing access to art to newcomers and experienced collectors alike through education and tours.)

- We're now working with private and corporate clients, interior designers and architects, helping them find paintings, photography, sculpture and other contemporary art.  We have a network of galleries, dealers and artists across the USA and England and we visit the art fairs regularly to find the best work for our clients.
- We tripled art sales last year and look set to do the same again this year.  I have just hired a Gallery Manager and plan to secure a hotel contract this year.
- Not only have I grown enormously since starting the business, but I've had the privilege of watching the artists I represent expand into their potential.  Many have sold more art than ever before, and some have won awards.  The most rewarding experience for me personally has been to watch my mother's growth as an artist. We recently commission her to paint a 6 foot square painting - the largest work she had ever done by far - and also, to her great surprise, her best work to date.  Our client is delighted with the result, and so is my mother, who is inspired to create larger and bolder works.

Blue Tangerine Art gallery is in San Francisco's South of Market district, and welcomes Peer Momentum visitors!  Check out our website at www.BlueTangerineArt.com or email Trudy at trudy@bluetangerineart.com.