Meet Chuck Of Canvas 55.50: Art Dealer, Art Advisor and Curator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chuck Of Canvas 55.50 and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chuck, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Recognizing a void that sorely needed to be filled. As my passion and affinity for the arts grew, without reason I found myself exploring more of the logistical side of the art world. And almost immediately I noticed yet again, another industry that lacked diversity and inclusion. Yes; artwork produced by black artists is becoming more and more revered by the masses, however, when looking at who was and is representing these artists on the business side, it was rarely ever by a person of color. Using the lack of diversity in the arts as my driving force. As well, noticing an existing network of creative friends I had accumulated over the years and recognizing that my way of connecting with visual artists was a talent within its self, helped me realize that I could be a major contributor to the change that was coming to the art world. I felt my purpose was greater than just something monetary which fueled me, It gave me the mental strength needed to overlook my fears and gave me the determination to find my way into an industry that historically shown that is was not built for people who may look like me.

What should our readers know about your business?
Canvas 55.50 is a visual artist agency and art consultant firm established in 2017. Working in the primary art market, with focus more on the development of new and emerging artist. As well, act as the liaison between the art collectors and artist, educating the collector and responsibly brokering the sale of the art work. What makes me most proud is the way the art community embarrassed the position that I decided to play in the art industry. It gives me confirmation that I was correct about the void needing to be filled in the art industry and motivates me to keep going no matter how are things may get a times. Now in 2021 and looking back to 2017; consistency, patience, faith, and my willingness to always be a student of the industry has brought me to where I am today with Canvas 55.50 No, it was and not easy. At time during those moments of frustration and doubt, I have to remind myself that I am doing this with a bigger purpose that just the money and fame. Lessons learned along the way: #1 Become an everlasting student of your craft; there is always something new to learn. #2 Don’t be afraid to ask for help. #3 Honesty will take you a long way #4 Make sure your business is legally structured properly; and seek help if needed. #5 Do things how you envision it, not others. #6 There will never be a perfect time to start, just do and everything else will come.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would have to say: Breakfast at Barney’s to eat The High Museum of Art Atlanta Contemporary WISH Little 5 Points Tribeca Buckhead for drinks Rock Steady for good food and vibes Apt 4B ZuCot Gallery September Gray Fine Art Gallery KAI LIN Art Gallery Krog Street Market Little Trouble Parlor The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My brother, Bobby who is a self-taught, figurative artist who at a young age introduced me to the art world.

Website: www.canvas5550.com
Instagram: canvas5550
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/chuck5550
Twitter: canvas5550
Facebook: canvas5550
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKe7VBD2aMxxOb-q1KyqAkQ

Image Credits
Above The Line Media, KENO, Brent Gates, Christopher Kinsey, Michelle Kee, Victor Walker, TTim The Poet, TJ Hemphill, Michelle Kee, Christopher Kinsey and Victor Walk