Laura Greb of L-G Reps

At the BoConcepts event this past December in NYC, I had the pleasure of meeting Laura Greb of L-G Reps. I was very impressed with her career path and the fact that she started her own agency. She agreed to be interviewed & I hope you find it as interesting as I did, especially if you are an artist looking for exposure:

How did you get started as a rep? I moved to NYC in 2003 from Colorado and two years later found myself at a prestigious stock-licensing agency representing photographers and illustrators. As a Photo Editor, I had various roles that drove my passion to quickly skyrocket, as I became heavily involved working with artists and their work. Last year, I decided to take my knowledge and experience to a higher level to start my own agency. Are you also an artist? In what media? Yes, I have a degree in photography with an emphasis in travel photography. I also found a new love for abstract painting years ago.

Where did you go to school? The Art Institute of Colorado in Denver. How do you make LG Reps stand out on the internet? Where do you advertise off-line? LG-REPS is unique in that we represent up and coming artists. We also write about up-and-coming artists as well as accomplished artists. We feel strongly in running an agency like it’s our own household and working as closely as we can with our artists.

We also help artists who normally would not be looked at by big rep firms or agencies and bring them to the forefront of the art scene. Lastly, we write about industry news, events, etc. simultaneously. We currently have ad space at: http://sociallysuperlative.com/ which generates drive and much appreciated attention. We promote around the city such as: East of Eight Restaurant in NYC, LITM restaurant/bar in Jersey City and various other places. We are currently scouting for artists in the LA and Denver areas as well. We send out newsletters and personalized emails to prospects, clients and friends. LG-REPS is extremely strong in maintaining solid relationships through constant contact. Tell us more about your company – how long have you been a rep for artists? I officially launched my agency a year ago but I’ve represented artists and worked closely with them for four years prior to my agency. What do you like most about your work? What do you like least? I’m 100% passionate about what I do and I am very hands on. Every day there are new articles to read, new artists to discover, something fresh is always happening. Recently, I spoke at a NYC gallery to up-and-coming artists regarding pricing their artwork, which was a success. I not only helped others but learned more about myself in the process. I’m doing my best to set “normal” working hours but I’m slowly realizing owning a business is a 27/4 responsibility. How many different “hats” do you wear at your job? Several shapes, sizes and colors! I take pleasure in managing and taking control. What are some of the things you would like to accomplish in your career in the next 5 years? Eventually, I would like to be well known across the board. One of many goals within the next five years is to represent internationally and to host a month long gallery for artists. What are your favorite things to do when you aren’t working? I love spending time with my family, going to various museums, working out and traveling. Is there anything else you would like to tell us or promote? I am currently accepting artists’ work to review for possible representation and other opportunities. Can we find you on Facebook, Twitter, My Space, etc? Yes, you certainly can. I have an LG-REPS facebook fan page found at: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=166646959554. Twitter me at: http://twitter.com/lgreps. I am in the process of creating a NING profile page which will be announce on twitter once finalized. What advice would you give to newcomers in your field? Keep positive. Never give up and never hold back. People will always give their opinions in one way or another and just take their advice, digest and keep what information you want and throw the rest away. I learned time is of the essence so make sure to stay patient and realize timing is everything but if you have a grand idea, don’t hold back!

I started my agency carrying all the knowledge I learned from school, past jobs and personal experiences yet I am continuing to grow and accept any changes along the way. As long as you keep your goals in mind, you will achieve them! Any newcomers are more than welcome to contact me.

Mike Lindwasser Photography is represented by L-G Reps.