We had the pleasure of interviewing Nicole Slyusareva (MAAB, 2019), Associate Director at Lévy Gorvy Dayan. Before joining Lévy Gorvy Dayan, Nicole was the Senior Artist & Client Liaison at Tristan Hoare Gallery, having previously served as its Gallery Manager for a number of years. She is an experienced art-world professional with a multi-lingual and multi-cultural background, having spent several years in Scotland prior to moving to London, and was raised in Greece by Ukrainian expats. In addition to her MA from Sotheby’s Institute, Nicole holds a BA in Art History from the University of St Andrews, and a PgD in Cultural Heritage Studies from UCL.
Can you share a bit about your journey after graduating from Sotheby’s Institute of Art? What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial galleries, and what were the pivotal steps that led you to your current role?
Having completed my dissertation at SIA in September 2019, I had a much better understanding of the various art businesses operating in the art world and was certain that I would pursue a career in the commercial art world. However, I first expanded my knowledge with a Postgraduate Diploma in Cultural Heritage Studies at UCL, which I completed in September 2020.
In October 2020, I connected with Tristan Hoare Gallery and joined as an intern. Over two months, I impressed the team and was invited back in 2021 as a Gallery Assistant, eventually earning a promotion to Exhibitions Manager in 2022. By January 2023, I stepped into multiple responsibilities during my manager’s absence, leading to my promotion to Gallery Manager in May 2023. By May 2024, I transitioned to Senior Artist and Client Liaison, training new staff while deepening relationships with artists and clients.
In October 2024, I joined Lévy Gorvy Dayan as Associate Director, overseeing UK and European operations. Pivotal steps in my career include excelling in event delivery, receiving positive client feedback, and maintaining a proactive, welcoming attitude. I’ve always treated my roles as if I were running my own gallery, which has resonated with colleagues and clients alike.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced working in the art world, and how have you overcome them? What do you find most rewarding?
Early in my career, proving my capabilities and gaining recognition were significant challenges. Acknowledgment from superiors often comes with the opportunity for promotion, which is essential for career progression. I’ve learned the importance of advocating for oneself—but only after patiently demonstrating value.
Another challenge was standing up for myself professionally, especially in situations of unfair treatment. While confronting an employer can be daunting, I chose my moments carefully, ensuring my concerns were well-founded and addressed constructively.
The most rewarding aspect of my work is a combination of professional acknowledgement from my peers and superiors and connection with clients and visitors. I discovered a passion for giving tours and sharing insights about artworks and exhibitions. Seeing a visitor’s genuine interest and joy from a story I’ve shared has been a consistent source of fulfilment.
What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates aspiring to work in commercial galleries? Are there any particular skills, experiences, or networks that you found especially valuable in establishing yourself in this field?
Hone your organizational skills, learn to multitask, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re not sure what is being asked of you. THERE ARE NO STUPID QUESTIONS, BUT - try to figure things out on your own first—it’s a great way to train your brain. Also remember — there is a place and time to ask questions, not when your manager is going into a stressful meeting.
Learn to be resourceful and solve problems independently. Stay calm under pressure—pause, take a breath, think logically about your options, and then choose a course of action. Don’t be hasty, always proofread, and try not to take things personally or get emotional.
Take advice and listen to your superiors. They can become great mentors if you let them. Be friendly and genuine with everyone you meet. It’s a rare quality in the art world, but people will remember you for it. Do not hold grudges or burn bridges—it’s a small world, and you will meet again.
Be open to new experiences and take on projects outside your comfort zone. You might discover you’re good at something unexpected! Go beyond your job description, don’t box yourself in by declining tasks that aren’t technically part of your position. Even gallery founders take out the trash in the evenings.
Enjoy what you do and do what you enjoy. Each day will bring new experiences and lessons. Move on when your job is no longer the reason you get out of bed in the morning.
