Get to know Master’s Program alumni in our new series Life After Graduate School. In this week’s feature, meet Hayley Stoen, Master’s program alumna and the mind behind The Atelier Collection, where she deals, restores, and curates art from around the world.
Why St. Thomas?
I was impressed with St. Thomas from the very early stages of pursuing my graduate degree. The level of attention and regard that I received from the faculty was quite impactful, particularly because I graduated from college over a decade ago and I was slightly overwhelmed at the prospect of going back to school. I also appreciated that in spite of not having an academic background in art history (I majored in French and Political Science at the University of Minnesota), I was welcomed into the program and encouraged to pursue the field.
What was your favorite moment while a student at St. Thomas?
Presenting my QP was definitely the highlight. I had an incredible sense of accomplishment that I had come so far in my studies, overcoming fears and obstacles along the way. I loved my topic and it was personal to me, and I felt proud to be in such talented company as I listened to my fellow presenters that night. Each and every one of my seminars were also highlights! It’s such a well-rounded education and I miss the excitement of being able to choose from the list of fascinating courses that are offered every semester.
What are you up to these days? How did you get to where you are?
During my last year in the program, I started a business called The Atelier Collection. I acquire artwork from all over the world, working with other art dealers to import the pieces and restore them if necessary. It is a highly curated collection and I select works based on their aesthetic properties, historic implications, and originality. I operate a website, atelier-collection.com, and I recently opened a gallery space in downtown Excelsior. I work with interior designers, established art collectors, and art lovers who are just beginning their collections. I have shipped everywhere from Australia, the Netherlands, to Nantucket and Santa Barbara…all over! I also participate in local art shows and collaborations, as community engagement is very important to me. I absolutely love curating art and I get such a thrill from acquiring and selling
How has the time spent in our graduate program influenced your career and life?
The program afforded me the ability to work in this field at a high level, and I find that having earned my Master’s degree in Art History from St. Thomas gives me some professional authority. I feel strongly that I could not do what I do without having this degree behind me. I find that I often rely on the formal education that I received, even referencing professors’ comments and syllabi at times! The connections that I made through St. Thomas have also been integral. Building these personal relationships is key, as Minneapolis/St. Paul is a small world. St. Thomas really cultivates that idea. The art world can be intimidating, but after countless presentations, papers, and critiques, I have the confidence required in doing business in this specialized area.
Advice for new and current graduate students?
My first piece of advice is to take advantage of an internship – mine was at Mia and it was profoundly helpful to me. Also, try not to look too far ahead or it can get overwhelming. Enjoy the process and take it day by day. And if you’re worried because you don’t know what you want to do when you graduate – just brainstorm and don’t limit your options! There are so many opportunities out there, even if you have to create one for yourself.
