Meet Art Dealer Tatiana Zemskova

Tatiana Zemskova is a Moscow-born entrepreneur with a diverse background in finance, accounting, and the arts. With a dual degree in finance and accounting from two prestigious universities, Tatiana possesses a strong foundation in business and financial management.

During her childhood, Tatiana’s passion for the arts led her to attend a music school where she dedicated seven years to learning and playing the piano. Her artistic pursuits and desire for personal fulfillment eventually drove her to explore different industries.

Starting her career as an accountant for a leading leasing company in the agricultural sector, Tatiana gained valuable experience in financial management and analysis. However, her yearning for a more creative field prompted her to pursue a competitive position in marketing as a junior product manager.

In the prestigious marketing sector of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), Tatiana played a vital role in promoting a liquor brand and achieving a remarkable 10% annual sales growth. Her marketing expertise and ability to drive results showcased her adaptability and business acumen.

Driven by her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for luxury goods, Tatiana established Zeta Jewelry, a New York-based company specializing in the sales of high-end watches, precious stones, and diamonds. Leveraging her extensive business network, Tatiana secured her first art deal, delving into the world of art dealing. This experience further fueled her entrepreneurial drive, pushing her to explore new ventures and opportunities.

Tatiana’s journey exemplifies her resilience and willingness to take risks, ultimately leading her to pursue her true passions. With her expertise in finance, marketing, and the art industry, Tatiana continues to make significant strides in her career, establishing herself as a successful entrepreneur and art dealer.

What was the inspiration behind your business?

I was always passionate about the art world and from an early age was engaging in artistic pursuits. When I moved to New York from Moscow, I got involved in the watches and jewelry business, being attracted not only to the earning potential but also to the aesthetics of the objects I had to deal with on an everyday basis. Then, an opportunity to tap into art dealership came along, and it felt like a natural transition and evolution for my career. I have a goal-getter personality and aim to do my best in anything I decide to commit to. For this reason, I entered the Master’s program at the Sotheby’s Institute of Art.

What defines your way of doing business?

I think the following quote from Confucius sums it up: “What you do not want to be done to yourself, do not do to others.” I believe in treating my clients and partners with respect and fairness. I value open and honest communication, and I strive to deliver quality service and products. Building strong and long-lasting relationships is important to me, and I always aim to exceed expectations.

What keys to being productive can you share?

I am a morning person. I enjoy waking up at 6 a.m. and, ideally, beginning my day with personal training or playing tennis. Then I spend an hour reading the news with my morning coffee and breakfast. This routine sets up the stage for a productive day of work or studies. I also like to plan my schedule ahead and usually refer to my iPhone calendar, which keeps me on track with day-to-day tasks and events. Setting priorities and staying organized helps me stay focused and efficient.

Tell us one long-term goal in your career.

One of my long-term goals is to become a recognized and influential figure in the art industry. I want to continue expanding my business and establishing strong connections with artists, collectors, and other stakeholders in the art world. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to the growth and appreciation of art, both as a dealer and as a supporter of emerging artists.

How do you measure success?

To me, success is not solely defined by financial achievements, although they are certainly important in business. Success is also about personal fulfillment, making a positive impact in the industry, and building meaningful relationships. I measure my success by the satisfaction of my clients, the growth and reputation of my business, and the fulfillment I derive from my work. It’s about finding a balance between professional achievements and personal happiness.

What advice would you give to others aspiring to succeed in your field?

I would advise aspiring art dealers to immerse themselves in the art world and gain a deep understanding of different artistic styles, movements, and trends. Building a strong network is crucial, so attending art exhibitions, auctions, and industry events can provide valuable opportunities for networking and learning. It’s also important to develop a unique perspective and taste in art, as this can set you apart in a competitive market. Lastly, be passionate about what you do and maintain a genuine love for art, as it will drive you through the challenges and uncertainties of the industry.

What is one piece of technology that helps you the most in your daily routine?

One piece of technology that helps me tremendously in my daily routine is Google Suite. It offers a range of productivity tools, including Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, and Google Docs. These tools allow me to stay organized, collaborate with my team, and access important information and documents from anywhere. The ease of communication and file sharing provided by Google Suite has greatly improved my efficiency and effectiveness in managing my business and staying connected with clients and partners.