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How SCORE helped.

“There were many areas in my business where I just wasn’t as protected as I needed to be,” Michele explained. “In the art world, there’s a lot of gentleman’s agreements. But SCORE made me realize that if I had a valuable painting in my studio, and something happened to it, I needed to be protected.” Learning about insurance, proper contracts, and how to value her work appropriately were important lessons Michele used to grow her business.

With a steady hand, a tiny paintbrush, and artistic expertise, Michele S. Kay, rescues fine artwork from the ravages of time, fire, extreme weather events, and neglect. She always strives to bring each painting to the original artist's intent, on the day the artist first painted it – even if that day was many centuries ago! Here is an example of before and after images of her work.

Michele spent many years studying artistic techniques and art history in order to do this vital work. When she needed to learn how to turn her chosen lifelong career into a more professional and profitable business, she turned to SCORE Westchester.

“There were notices for SCORE’s small business workshops in the library,” Michele said, “and I figured it might help me to check it out. There was nothing to lose.” During her first workshop, she was immediately impressed by SCORE Westchester’s team of small business mentors. “They’re really nice people. I felt a real connection with them right away. It was clear they had the insights and information that would really help me.”

How SCORE Westchester Helps: Professional Guidance, Business Growth, Encouragement & Support

“There were many areas in my business where I just wasn’t as protected as I needed to be,” Michele explained. “In the art world, there’s a lot of gentleman’s agreements. But SCORE made me realize that if I had a valuable painting in my studio, and something happened to it, I needed to be protected.” Learning about insurance, proper contracts, and how to value her work appropriately were important lessons Michele used to grow her business, Fine Paintings Conservation, and Restoration.

Another valuable insight from SCORE Westchester helped Michele determine how to make the best use of her time. While there are obviously many parts of her business that can be done only by her – the hands-on aspects of painting conservation and restoration – other necessary tasks, such as stretching and preparing canvases, could be done by an assistant. The decision to hire an employee was a big step, but one that Michele has found played a pivotal role in allowing her to take on more work, increasing her profitability.

SCORE small business Mentor Natasha Roukos helped Michele identify the tools and strategies she could use to attract the right type of clientele. The potential clientele for high-end painting restoration is quite specialized, and Natasha’s guidance helped Michele target her marketing efforts appropriately. Additionally, Natasha provides Michele with valuable encouragement and support.

“Being an artist and not having extensive business experience,” Michele said, “I needed business guidance, and SCORE provided it”.