REDSEA Gallery: business review
& fine arts know-how
REDSEA Gallery
Block 9 Dempsey Road, #01-10 Dempsey Hill. Tel: 6732 6711, www.redseagallery.com
Business established: 10 years
Niche: Fine arts
Chris Churcher describes his transition from banking to owning an art gallery as "easy but difficult." The easy part was realising after 18 years he had no real interest in banking at all. The difficult part was taking the next step and quitting the job with all the trimmings and a regular pay check, knowing there'd be a sacrifice to make.
However, being in Asia, surrounded by a wealth of talented artists and having a soon to be wife who respected and encouraged his dream, enabled him to realise his passion. Chris mustered the courage to venture into the unknown and fulfil his long time ambition of starting his own business - giving birth to REDSEA Gallery which is today a thriving fine arts gallery.
TF: How did you become interested in art?
CC: As a young boy I watched my mother attempt oil painting. Although she didn't produce many works,
those I remember around the home are still etched in my childhood memory. She always encouraged us to create and I really enjoyed pencil drawing.
TF: How has REDSEA Gallery evolved?
CC: We have grown immensely since our humble days positioned in a shophouse along River Valley Road. Our exhibition space in the heart of Dempsey Hill spans 6,000 square feet and although REDSEA Gallery initially only represented Asian artists, we've now expanded our reach and work with artists from Russia, the US and Australia. I'm constantly on the lookout for good and exciting artists.
TF: In 2008, you unveiled a second gallery in Brisbane, Australia.
Do you have any other plans for growth?
CC: The gallery in Australia was our first joint venture outside Singapore and was a very brave move. After careful consideration we decided Brisbane would be the perfect fit for our expansion. Sydney or Melbourne may have been more obvious initially, but Brisbane is quietly and steadily growing. In Singapore we also focus on our events business. Private clients can hire the gallery for all types of functions be it corporate, cocktail or a private birthday party. In the long run, I will be looking out for originality and quality, and continue to support artists from across the globe.
When picking out art pieces...
• For your home - make sure you like what you're buying
• For the office - be gentle with your choice and make sure it's not offensive
Posted August 2011
