Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelley Brown and James Puzinas.
Shelley and James, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My first career was in advertising. After 15+ years, I decided it was time for a change. I needed a new challenge.
At the, time my husband had his own investment company.
As collectors, we both love fine art and beautiful and historical objects. My thought was to create a company selling fine art, antique furniture, and historical objects. I started small, doing local antique shows and fairs.
After selling his company, my husband decided to join me and the company grew from there. We expanded the breath of our merchandise as well as our show schedule, eventually exhibiting at some of the finest art and antique shows around the country such as the Boston International Fine Art Show, the U.S. Artists Show in Philadelphia, the Connecticut Spring Antiques Show, and the Palm Beach International Fine Art and Jewelry Show.
During this time we sold our previous home in 2012, and purchased another home where we could build a small art gallery so our clients and new customers could visit. As a private dealer, we offer an attractive and comprehensive website and continue to exhibit at select shows around the country.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Starting and managing your own business is never a smooth road.
We started out selling fine art, furniture and decorative objects. When our clients began purchasing mostly paintings, we made the decision to refocus our business to selling investment quality American art.
This entailed a change in the company’s direction, both philosophical and financial. It was a challenge to adjust our company’s mission as well as our use of capital. It was a lot of work, but it was the right decision.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Blue Heron Fine Art – what should we know?
Our gallery sells fine American paintings from the 19th through the 21st centuries.
We specialize in listed, non-living artists but we do offer paintings from a select group of contemporary painters. We are most proud of the quality of the art we offer. Our motto is we will not sell a painting that we would not hang in our own home.
We believe what sets us apart from other smaller art galleries, is the breath and variety of our paintings.
From historical 19th century works, to impressionism, modern, and contemporary art, you can find it all at our gallery at affordable prices.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
We have had quite a bit of help along the way. Firstly, our clients gave us the positive energy to make the business a success. Our mentors include scions of the art business such as Henry Holt and Sam Robbins. Mr. Holt provided encouragement when we were just starting out. He was very generous with his knowledge, connections, and experience in the art world for over 50 years. Sam Robbins was a well-known collector of 19th century White Mountain art. On more than one occasion he provided invaluable knowledge of a painting or scene that enabled a successful sale.
As important, was the support of our parents. Without them, we could not have traveled the country while they tended to the family at home.
Pricing:
- 19th century – 21st century American paintings: $2,000-$50,000
- Contemporary American paintings: $500-$5000
Contact Info:
- Address: 31 Nichols Road,
Cohasset, MA 02025 - Website: www.blueheronfa.com
- Phone: 7813833210
- Email: info@blueheronfa.com
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BlueHeronFineArt/
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