Merrick D’arcy-Irvine
In a nutshell, my job involves… everything (and more!). By launching AucArt I’m building an ecosystem where regular people like me can begin an avant-garde and innovative art collection while supporting artists straight out of art school. My role includes sales, client relations, discovering and welcoming new artists, building partnerships and relationships, constantly reviewing data and working with the tech team to improve the platform.
When I was a child I wanted to be… either a ballerina or a pilot.
I got into this industry by… sneaking out of my boarding house with a group of friends and attending a private view when I was 16. After studying musical theatre and realising it was not for me, I turned instead to interdisciplinary arts and began working at a gallery. I then became obsessed with the art world, visiting artists’ studios, travelling to fairs and biennales, reading about the market and eventually completing my MA studies in arts management.
I love what I do because… I spend every day working towards building my vision, one in which I totally believe. I feel very grateful that I’m in this position. You’re only on the planet for a short time and I’d like to think I’m not only changing part of an outdated and rigid system, but also helping the next generation of artists to sustain their careers. The world needs art.
The best part of my day is… when all of the daily tasks have been ticked off. I also love going on the occasional studio visit and getting lost in an artist’s world.
The hardest part of my day is… alternating between different responsibilities at AucArt. I’m always in multiple mindsets – reflective, present and long-term – depending on the tasks I’m working on. Then there’s trying to get to sleep at night when my brain cannot turn off.
The aspect of my job that always surprises people is… that I don’t have a co-founder.
The three skills that help me succeed are… resilience, determination and the ability to take on board criticism.
The biggest change in my industry at the moment is… the introduction of technology and the transition from offline to online. I think the internet will accelerate the democratisation of art. It’s a very exciting time for the sector and I’m glad to be part of the disruption and change.
My role model is… my parents – they’ve always taught me to follow my dreams and never give up. They are the epitome of determination.
The one thing I wish I’d known when I started out is… I never imagined it would have been this challenging, I’m learning at the speed of light. Ignorance really does feel like bliss!
Anyone wanting to do my job should begin by… thinking why they want to do it, because building a company from nothing requires absolutely everything. It’s a massive investment, so you have to believe in your mission and know why you’re doing it.
In 10 years’ time, I’d like to be… watching AucArt continue to grow.
From: Harper’s BAZAAR UK
