11 November 2024

Lisa King's Inspiring Journey in Art and Entrepreneurship

Submitted by: Zané Neethling
Lisa King's Inspiring Journey in Art and Entrepreneurship

Lisa King is an inspiring entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the art industry. Starting with humble beginnings as a model, Lisa discovered a deep love for the arts that would shape her path. She pursued her passion relentlessly, leading her to travel, work, and study across cities like London, Los Angeles, and Cape Town. Today, she is not only a successful art curator but also a dynamic force in the creative world, blending her expertise in art and entrepreneurship to empower artists and art lovers alike.

From Model to Actress to Artist

Lisa began her journey in the creative world at a young age. By the age of 14, she was modelling, eventually working internationally and appearing in over 50 commercials, gracing magazine covers worldwide. After years in the spotlight, including a title as Miss Teen South Africa, Lisa moved to Los Angeles, immersing herself in acting classes and theatre. Reflecting on her time studying Shakespeare with the Juilliard School, Lisa shares, “That experience shaped me. I grew so much as an artist – working with such an iconic institution gave me the confidence to fully embrace my creative journey.”

A Return to South Africa and a New Path in Art

After years of modelling and acting, Lisa felt drawn to the visual arts. In 2001, she returned to South Africa and established her first art gallery in 2004 in Cape Town’s Cape Quarter. Working alongside her mother, she dedicated 14 years to creating a welcoming space for both established and emerging artists. “My mother and I poured ourselves into the gallery. It was about building a space where people could connect over art, where artists could showcase their work in a meaningful way,” Lisa recalls. This shared vision not only fostered a vibrant community but also laid the groundwork for Lisa’s future in art curation and entrepreneurship.

The Lisa King Collection: Merging Art and Fashion

Lisa’s entrepreneurial spirit also emerged with The Lisa King Collection, a women’s footwear brand launched in 2008. Balancing her roles in fashion and art, the collection reflects her eye for unique design. “Both art and fashion are ways of expressing oneself,” she explains. “The Lisa King Collection is really about bringing artistry into everyday life.”

Art Trader: A New Vision for Art in Cape Town

When the Cape Quarter transitioned to residential use, Lisa and the gallery tenants had to relocate. Undeterred, she seized the opportunity to reimagine her approach to art curation. In December 2022, she launched Art Trader, a boutique gallery with a fresh vision. Art Trader not only showcases new work from artists Lisa represents but also offers a marketplace for clients to resell pre-owned artwork.

Art Trader gives art a new life. We’re here to support artists and connect people with pieces they might not have discovered otherwise,” Lisa says with pride. The gallery also hosts exhibitions, auctions, and paint jams, making it a vibrant hub for Cape Town’s creative community.

Building a Dynamic Art Space

Working with her business partner, David, Lisa has created a dynamic artistic space that attracts collectors, artists, and art lovers. Her dedication to showcasing both contemporary and classic art supports a range of voices and styles, encouraging people to connect with art in new ways.

Empowering Women in Art and Entrepreneurship

Today, Lisa’s work with Art Trader and The Lisa King Collection celebrates women in art and entrepreneurship. Her journey embodies resilience, creativity, and the drive to uplift other artists and designers. Lisa King’s story is a powerful reminder that, with vision and commitment, women can inspire others, nurture communities, and leave a lasting impact on the creative world.

Discover more about Lisa’s artistic journey and explore a diverse selection of artwork by visiting Art Trader. Check out the latest exhibitions and unique collections at the gallery or get in touch with their team to learn more about buying and selling art.

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Lisa King's Inspiring Journey in Art and Entrepreneurship
From model to art curator, Lisa King continues to inspire with her work at Art Trader. Experience Cape Town's creative energy and support local art!

#LisaKingArt #CapeTownArt #WomenEntrepreneurs #ArtTraderGallery #pressrelease #AfricaNewsroom #bizcommunity #publicrelations #africa #southernafrica #southafrica


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