Jamie Hippen Farley is the visionary founder of Hippen Arthouse, a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering artists and redefining the art industry. Born into a profoundly creative family, Jamie’s love for art was nurtured early. Her grandmother, an artist for Macy’s in the 1950s, and her aunt, the groundbreaking puppeteer behind Audrey II in Little Shop of Horrors, inspired a lifelong appreciation for creative expression. With parents who were avid art collectors, Jamie grew up immersed in a world where artistry and innovation were part of everyday life.

At 19, Jamie experienced a transformative moment that solidified her path in the art world. Overwhelmed by the beauty of a Richard Selesnick painting of the Jupiter Lighthouse, she boldly spent her rent money to purchase the piece. This pivotal experience fueled her passion for collecting and supporting emerging artists whose work evokes deep emotional connections.

Jamie’s influences are shaped by her encounters with emerging artists whose creations often rival those of the masters. From the haunting precision of Scott Barrow’s emotionally charged pieces to the whimsical, anthropomorphic sculptures of Carlos and Albert, Jamie finds inspiration in the stories and emotions that lesser-known talents bring to life. Her belief in the power of emerging artists drives her commitment to creating opportunities for those outside traditional art circles.

Jamie’s career is a testament to her unique blend of passion and strategic expertise. With a professional background in disaster relief construction management and HR, she honed her skills in large-scale project management and team leadership—qualities that have translated seamlessly into her art industry endeavors. As Leader of Art Concepts for Alexandria Restaurant Partners, she continues to guide artistic direction and oversee the AIR Program (Artist in Residence), an initiative that has supported over 100 artists, curated an inventory of 1,500 works, and established three thriving galleries across Orlando and Washington, DC.

In 2024, Jamie debuted Hippen Arthouse at Red Dot Miami during Miami Art Week, introducing a fresh platform to spotlight innovation and creativity. The launch marked the realization of her dream to foster an inclusive ecosystem where artists can thrive creatively without the burden of administrative tasks. Jamie sees the journey from creation to sale as an art form, one where she can weave connections and curate narratives that bring masterpieces to their ideal audience.

Looking ahead, Jamie’s vision centers on empowering dozens of artists to focus solely on their craft while she manages the complexities of their careers. She remains dedicated to transforming the art world into a welcoming, inclusive space that celebrates curiosity and diversity. By challenging the outdated exclusivity of traditional art institutions, Jamie aims to build a vibrant community where art is accessible to all.

Through Hippen Arthouse, Jamie Hippen Farley continues to lead, innovate, and redefine what the art world can and should be—a place where connection, exploration, and inclusivity take center stage.

Q: What inspired you to found {business} and what were your main challenges?

Managing the AIR Program for ARP provided me with a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse spectrum of talent across various regions. It became clear that many artists, despite their differences, shared common challenges. Recognizing this, I realized that my strengths in management, networking, and passion for art could play a pivotal role in addressing those concerns.

Q: Did you start the venture alone?

Technically yes, but I was fortunate to have an overwhelming amount of support from my family, my first artist; Melanie Royster, and my friend Arthur Grayson, the founder of Ujamaa.

Q: What's your business model, and how have you grown your revenue?

My business model is built around providing personalized services that connect artists with opportunities while fostering meaningful engagement with art collectors and enthusiasts. I manage a portfolio of artists, helping them expand their reach and visibility through exhibitions, commissions, and collaborations. Revenue growth has been driven by diversifying my services and products and expanding into multiple regions like South Florida, Washington, DC, and New York. Building strong, collaborative relationships with clients, artists, and organizations has been key to sustaining growth. By aligning my passion for art with practical business strategies, I’ve created a dynamic approach that continues to evolve and scale with new opportunities.