We had the good fortune of connecting with Reco Sturgis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Reco, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Art is my passion. From a young age, I knew I wanted to bring art to the world. Atlanta’s vibrant arts scene was formative for me. I attended my first show openings in Castleberry Hill. But I’ve always been an independent person, felt secure in my decision-making process, and held high standards that can be difficult to achieve in partnerships where compromise is expected. So having my own business felt like a natural direction.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Hugo Fine Arts Galerie is a leading gallery with New York City locations in SoHo and on the Upper East Side. We focus on contemporary figurative artwork. Its roots began at Axelle Gallery, founded in 1993 by the visionary gallerist Bertrand Delacroix. Bertrand was a mentor to me. Axelle closed after he suddenly passed. With the encouragement of artists, colleagues, and collectors, I relaunched the gallery under a new name and continue its legacy of offering the best contemporary, representational artwork available. In the years since Hugo opened, I have nurtured its developing personality and recognized its own drive. While it was forged from Axelle, it has grown into its own: we now represent a wider array of local and international artists, a more expansive range of established and emerging talent, and a more contemporary expression of the classic motifs that can be accomplished using traditional techniques.

The most important factor is the quality of the artwork I offer. I think about the big picture: Ralph Lauren is a tastemaker, not merely a designer. I aspire to something similar. The artists whom I select are the best at what they do in their respective genres. They are as devoted to their art as I am to championing it. The relationships I build, whether with artists or clients, or employees, are built on respect, admiration, and trust. Factors like enthusiasm, knowledge, and understanding make a big difference as well. And never underestimate simply showing up.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mother was a fantastic role model and a positive force in my life. She always had my back. I knew I could go out and try to achieve whatever I wanted, no matter how risky—she’d always be there for me regardless of what happened. (Luckily, I never needed to move back into my childhood bedroom!) My mother also had a wonderful sense of humor and zest for life—a reminder to find joy in each moment as you live it. Bertrand Delacroix, an incredible gallerist and industry visionary, was a mentor to me as well. Yes, he taught me about the business side of things. But he also taught me about life. I am also grateful to our collectors, who have shown great support and interest in our work. None of this would be possible if it were just me who believed in these artists.

Website: www.hugogalerie.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hugogalerie

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugogalerie

Twitter: https://twitter.com/hugo_galerie

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HugoGalerie

Image Credits
Courtesy of Hugo Galerie

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.