Tell us who are…
I am the Co-founder and CEO of Canvas, a new digital age platform and agency that brings people, emerging artists and art-led projects to engaged audiences, private collectors, corporate clients, brands, and institutions.
I am very happy to be working with professional curators and to be discovering, selecting, and representing rare talents around the world who are on their way to becoming stars. Together with my team, we offer meaningful selections, engaging pop-up events and customised projects.
I believe that we should invest in artists, so they can tell their stories and opinions and make their art accessible.
KATE SHALABANOVA
In what ways does your work give you purpose?
What I do now is a part of who I am. It’s almost difficult for me to call CANVAS work because it’s full of meaning and excitement. I love working with artists, being led by their creativity, and supporting them in building their international recognition.
It is rewarding and fascinating to be creating projects that are valuable to the audience and community.
I am very fortunate to be surrounded by like-minded people and to be working on inspiring, thought-provoking initiatives.
What role does Agora play in your story?
I was very fortunate to see the hotel come to life. It was very clear to me that, along with the beautiful aesthetics, the values and vision of the places resonate with me.
We worked together with the Agora team to create meaningful art events centred around subjects that are close to our hearts: identity, empowerment, and femininity.
What pleases you in your day-to-day life?
My work, my art, my loved ones, nature, and art.
What are moments you feel grateful for what you do?
The excitement of the artists and the clients when we sit together and schedule new projects. Every time I get a sense of the buzz, I know we’re on the right path.
How do you motivate yourself to do the things you struggle with?
By looking at the bigger picture and listening to my intuition. I was once given a great piece of advice — always answer with “So what?” If I can do that, then I can pick the tasks that might seem too difficult to begin with.
How do you balance productivity and presence?
I don’t normally schedule a rigid plan. I set 2-3 priorities for the day that will be the most valuable, and then I go with the flow. For me, this way of living works best, and I usually do more than I originally planned.
I always make sure to leave time for myself and my loved ones. This allows me to be inspired and productive.
What are you most grateful for, and how do you embrace thi feeling into your life?
I am grateful for the people I surround myself with; the ones who make what I do possible. I connect with them through personal meetings and calls. I love keeping our communication light and positive, even when we talk about business.
Describe yourself without including your work..
Always on a journey, both spiritual and physical.
