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. This experience was invaluable as I gained fantastic skills over the course of two months and was subsequently taken on as a full-time Gallery Assistant, eventually taking the lead on organising gallery exhibitions. By January 2023, I had grown beyond the scope of my role and was promoted to Gallery Manager, a position which challenged and excited me, and really pushed me to my full potential. The following year, the gallery team had expanded and I naturally transitioned into the role of Senior Artist and Client Liaison, having fostered deep relationships with artists and clients over my 4 years with the gallery.
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 organisational 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 there is a time and place to ask them — and that’s not when your boss is heading into an important meeting! My biggest advice would be: try to figure things out on your own first — it’s a great way to train your brain, to think outside the box and to get creative with problem solving. A self-sufficient employee is a great asset to any company.
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 — stay professional and people around you will follow suit.
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.
