Alison Dunlap Photography

Tamara Cannon, Owner Gallery Piquel

When Tamara Cannon worked as a performer on a luxury cruise line (for over 25 years) she enjoyed the beautiful artwork displayed along the streets of the various countries around the world that her cruise line toured.  She and her husband, Jim, also employed by the cruise line, would purchase artwork that they liked but eventually, they had a better idea to support the artists. They created a gallery to display the artwork from the artists around the world, an opportunity for the artists to finally receive the attention and prices for their artwork that they deserved. Tamara and her husband brought their idea to life in our corner of the world. Their gallery, Gallery Piquel, owns and operate three galleries located in New Hope, Lambertville, and Princeton.

Tell us how your organization makes a difference to the people you hoped to serve?

Our mission has always had two prongs: 1) to encourage & support living artists and 2) to offer collectors original, unique, exceptional fine art at fair prices. While many of our established artists have received numerous awards and prestigious museum recognition for their work, it is especially exciting when we can encourage a talented newcomer to have confidence in their own style and to help them grow into a client favorite.

What surprised you the most in your organization’s history, pleasantly or unpleasantly?

We are truly fortunate to represent some world class artists.  It thrills me that typically our best artists are happy to collaborate, exchange ideas and actually take and act on my suggestions of themes/styles/sizes that our clients are seeking. Even though I, personally, have no painting talent whatsoever, I get to be very creative on a daily basis by partnering with our talented and gracious artists who can actually envision and manifest these ideas.

What advice would you share for any women looking to start or join an organization such as yours?

Trust your own vision and always keep CUSTOMER SERVICE in the forefront.

As a working woman, what is the one organizational tool that you can’t live without?

I try, as much as possible, to make notes in my client database.  Even if someone is not ready to purchase a piece of art, it is wonderful when years later they come in and I can remember what they liked, what occasion they were celebrating etc.

What in your life do you NOT spend time on?

I’m 63 years old now.  It wasn’t until very recently that I would confess to my current frame of mind.  I began my life as a performer and that usually included a lot of time spent on looking a certain way – the right hairstyle, clothes, wearing heals and certainly make-up.  One day a few years ago, I went into the gallery and I was a little late.  People came in at the beginning of the day and we had wonderful discussions about the art and they purchased several pieces and it was a very successful day.  At the end of the day, I went into the restroom and – to my horror – I realized I had never put on any makeup. And yet – the day had been successful by all accounts.  I saw then that my mission of supporting artists had not been hindered by not being “perfectly” coiffed and made up.  Nobody cared about that.  It was more important that we connected emotionally and with the feeling of the art and that knowledge has freed me to focus on the more important aspects of my role as a curator.

The best piece of advice that a mentor gave to you …could be anyone in your life or on any subject?

There is only one “you”.  Just work on being the best “you” you can be. Make your own rules.