art consultant romy paltoglou
It wasn’t until Romy Paltoglou's first child was born that she realised how precious time was. This prompted her to combine her business knowledge with her love for underground “street” art – Alleycat Creative was born. The art consultancy links talented underground artists with businesses. The Bridge Hotel in Melbourne, Movember foundation and QV Melbourne are all clients.
Which five words best describe you? Creative, curious, visual, lateral thinking.
How did your career start and what path have you taken since? I studied a bachelor of business and then horticulture. My first job luckily combined both these degrees - I worked with a commodity house trading crops of dry ingredients (nuts and dry fruit). I always had a strong passion for emerging artists in Melbourne yet worked in the corporate world until my first child was born in 2009. Time suddenly became more valuable to me and I chose to align my professional work with my passion for art so I started my business, Alleycat Creative. Alleycat Creative acts like a bridge connecting underground artists (street artists) with architects, interior designers, businesses and private individuals.
What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? If it doesn’t feel right, it’s not right.
What’s your proudest career achievement? Building the relationships (and friendships) with this diverse group of incredibly talented artists.
What’s been your best decision? To leave the corporate world to climb ladders and wear gumboots every day.
Who inspires you? Musicians Johnny Cash and Leonard Cohen. Artists. My husband, Pete.
What are you passionate about? Melbourne laneways and the way street art can make unexpected, gritty, neglected spaces shine.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Banksy
What dream do you still want to fulfill? To travel and travel some more. Keep learning and never stop.
What are you reading? Seven spiritual laws of success by Deepak Chopra. I now have an 11-month-old daughter so reading is tricky. This book is the first in a year. It’s short, but rich.
images courtesy of alleycat creative