Wright Harvey

Wright Harvey is the founder of Sugarlift, a contemporary art gallery and online platform based in New York City, established in 2014. Sugarlift aims to connect emerging artists with a broader audience, promoting sustainable careers in the arts. Harvey's background includes significant experience in finance, having worked at J.P. Morgan for nearly nine years before transitioning to the art world.

Early Life and Career

Wright Harvey developed a passion for art from a young age, often spending his free time drawing and visiting galleries. After completing his education at the University of Virginia, he entered the finance sector, where he worked in business development and strategy at J.P. Morgan. Despite his corporate career, he remained deeply connected to the art scene in New York City, frequently engaging with artists and galleries.

Founding Sugarlift

The idea for Sugarlift emerged from Harvey's observations of the art market's inefficiencies, particularly regarding pricing and accessibility. He recognized that the traditional gallery model was limited and sought to create a more inclusive platform where artists could thrive. Initially launched as a physical gallery in Brooklyn, Sugarlift quickly pivoted to an online marketplace, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when many galleries struggled to adapt.

Harvey describes Sugarlift as functioning like a "matchmaker" between artists and collectors, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' needs and preferences. The platform now hosts over 500 artists and integrates both digital and physical art experiences.

Vision and Future Plans

Wright Harvey envisions expanding Sugarlift's capabilities by enhancing its social features to foster connections within the art community. He believes that technology can significantly improve how art is collected and experienced, aiming to recreate real-world interactions in a more efficient manner.

Sugarlift continues to prioritize supporting living artists and providing them with opportunities for exposure and sales while challenging traditional norms within the art market.1243