Artists who have been represented by Agora Gallery will remember how crucial the work of the Exhibition Curator was in making their exhibition happen – from the first moments of considering a date, through to ensuring the safe arrival of the work, to the triumphant opening reception, as well as the aftermath of the exhibition. Annmarie Zito is Agora Gallery’s Exhibition Curator, and many visitors to the gallery will remember meeting her and enjoying talking to her, experiencing her enthusiasm for and knowledge of art.

Q&A with Annmarie

When did you first discover your interest in art?

I always loved art from a young age. I really enjoyed drawing and painting as a kid and continued making art through high school. In high school I took my first art history course and I realized that my real passion wasn’t creating art, but rather the story behind other artists’ works.

What made you decide to take your interest to the next level with a BA in Art History?

I was on a family vacation in Italy when I decided to study Art History in college. I had done a report on Michelangelo for my high school Italian class and there I was, standing in front of La Pieta. The piece was breathtaking and all I could do was go on and on about the work. While we were there, my mom said to me, “You know, you really like art history. Maybe you should look into that.” In that moment, it clicked, and I decided to get my BA in Art History.

You studied abroad in Florence, Italy – what an inspiring location! What impact did that have on you and your appreciation for art?

Studying in Florence showed me the influence art has on the world around us. Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance and that is reflected in every building, fountain, sculpture and piece of art in the city. Art is more than something beautiful to look at; it reflects our thoughts and our culture. Being in a city so influenced by art made me realize the true value of art in everyday life.

What is the thing that struck you most strongly about Chelsea when you started working here?

I was really struck by the number and variety of galleries in Chelsea. Each gallery and every exhibition is unique. No matter how many galleries I go to, there is always something new to see.

What does your role as Exhibition Coordinator involve?

As Exhibition Coordinator I oversee the exhibition process from start to finish. I communicate with the artist from the moment they are scheduled in an exhibition, and stay in touch with them, right up to after their exhibition closes.

You have had considerable experience working in the art world. What have you learned in the various auction houses, museums and galleries you’ve worked in?

The most important thing I’ve learned is that every position has a learning curve, no matter how many experiences you’ve had. Working in various companies in the art world has taught me to adapt to different roles and situations. I try to carry that with me, not only in my career, but in everyday life.

What’s your favorite aspect of working at Agora Gallery?

My favorite aspect of working at Agora is seeing the artists on the night of their opening reception. They are so excited and happy to see their work hanging in the gallery, and it is by far the most rewarding part of my job.

If you could meet one figure from art history, who would it be?

If I had to pick only one person, it would have to be Lorenzo de’ Medici. Even though he wasn’t an artist himself, he commissioned so many masterpieces and became friends with so many Renaissance artists. I would love to hear his point of view on the great artists of the Renaissance (and the gossip too!).