Founder Story: Public Offerings Ltd by Curator Ellen

Industry

Lifestyle

Location

UK

Stage

Pre-seed

Step into the world of Public Offerings Ltd., a pioneering art photography advisory that shines a spotlight on photographers often left in the shadows.

Founded by Ellen Stone, this company is committed to changing how we see and collect art. Focusing on LGBTQIA+, female, working-class, and global majority photographers, Public Offerings Ltd. works tirelessly to ensure these diverse voices are heard.

From museums to private collections and beyond, their work involves not just exhibitions but also workshops and digital collaborations that encourage discussions and learning.

They provide essential support to collectors, publishers, and other art professionals, fostering a community that values and celebrates the richness of photography as an art form.

Join us in exploring this vibrant artistic landscape where every picture tells a powerful story.

Let's hear from them.

Please Introduce Yourself and Tell Us About Your Startup?

Founded by curator Ellen Stone, our journey began with one mission: to shatter the glass ceilings that have prevented diverse and vibrant perspectives from gaining prominence in the contemporary photography market. With a commitment to inclusivity, authenticity, and cultural exchange, we curate spaces and showcase artistic talent inviting viewers to explore the world through new perspectives.

We passionately seek out and collaborate with those from different backgrounds, ensuring their voices rise to prominence. Our team works hand in hand with these artists to encapsulate the true essence of their creations, bridging the gap between the image and the story it tells.

Our international curatorial projects have brought art photography to museums, private collections, commercial galleries, and charities.

We are here to give collectors, publishers, interior designers, art buyers, gallerists, creative directors, editors, and photo directors the resources and support they need to discover and work with those who are traditionally unseen.We run exhibitions, workshops, and digital spaces building a fertile ground for conversation.

By inviting artists and enthusiasts to share their insights, techniques, and aspirations, we foster an environment where collector and artist voices are heard and acknowledged.

Our commitment extends beyond just curating images; it’s about nurturing a community that celebrates the art of photography.

Overview of Public Offerings Ltd

Public Offerings Ltd. is an innovative art photography advisory founded by curator Ellen Stone. The company is dedicated to breaking down barriers that have historically excluded marginalized photographers from the contemporary photography market.

With a strong focus on inclusivity, authenticity, and cultural exchange, Public Offerings Ltd. curates spaces and exhibitions that allow viewers to experience diverse worldviews through photography.

The startup was created to provide a platform for underrepresented photographers—particularly those from LGBTQIA+, female, working-class, and global majority backgrounds—to showcase their work and tell their stories authentically.

By collaborating closely with these artists, Public Offerings Ltd. bridges the gap between the images and the narratives they embody, ensuring that these unique perspectives gain the prominence they deserve.

Beyond curating art, the company facilitates workshops, digital spaces, and international projects, enriching the dialogue between artists and audiences. This approach not only enhances the visibility of diverse artists but also fosters a supportive community around the art of photography.

Facing the challenge of digital marketing fatigue, Public Offerings Ltd. emphasizes storytelling and direct engagement through in-depth artist interviews on their online magazine.

Looking ahead, the company plans to extend its reach by translating its online content into physical exhibitions and pop-up events, further cementing its role in shaping a more inclusive and culturally rich photography landscape.

What Problem(s) Does Your Startup Solve?

Our purpose is to uplift photographers who have traditionally been marginalised.

By providing them with a platform to showcase their work, we empower these artists to tell their stories in their own authentic way, leading to broader cultural conversation.

How Did Your Startup Gain Its Initial Momentum? Share Successful Strategies or Future Plans.

Public Offerings Ltd. was designed with the belief that consumers want more than the online experience. Through participation in talks, creative events, exhibitions, and collaborative parties, we managed to bring our online audience into the real world.

Our brand thrives on collaboration. We collaborate not just with photographers, but also with our audience, creating a vibrant community that nurtures talent, shares insights, and supports one another. We believe in the power of collective creativity to drive positive change.

What Were the Biggest Hurdles in Gaining Traction, and How Did You Overcome Them?

Social media is great for reaching people but consumers are becoming more and more fatigued by digital marketing on sites like Instagram.

To cut through the noise our focus is on storytelling and direct links with artists through in-depth interviews on our online magazine. We are driven by the desire to unveil the stories behind every image.

By preserving the intent and emotions of the photographer, we create a platform where each photograph becomes a gateway to understanding the world through various lenses.

Through this we strive to create an environment where every individual, regardless of their background, can engage with photography on a personal and emotional level, encouraging a renewed appreciation for the power of visual storytelling.

From your perspective, what's missing in the current startup environment?

All startups need to keep an eye on economics, however, allowing your drive for income to overtake your ethics creates a negative environment for everyone.

Social impact, inclusivity and the power of cultural exchange all should be included when weighing up the value of your startup and it's impact on the cultural environment - not just the dollar amount in every month.

What’s Next for Your Startup? Any Exciting Developments on the Horizon?

As an expansion of our off-line physical event projects we're looking to being our online magazine into the physical world through either an exhibition space or a curated series of pop-up events.

Financial support from collectors drives the sustainability of diverse artists’ careers, allowing them to continue producing meaningful photography and contributing to the art market’s diversity.

As more minority background collectors and art directors enter into the economy more diverse artists are having their voices heard.

If You Could Go back and Give Yourself One Piece of Advice at the Start of Your Journey, What Would It Be?

Not to be afraid of your marketing budget. The adage is that you have to spend money to make money but in the aim to not overspend many startups will avoid putting to much into their marketing.

Sometimes you need to accept that that few hundred dollars more on social media can really make a difference.

Your idea can change the world, let's make it a reality!

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