FEATURE FRIDAY: Nicole Royse on Owning an Art Gallery and Scottsdale Artists

Nicole Royse owns and curates Royse Contemporary, an art gallery in the Arts District in Old Town Scottsdale. She has been a vital part of the Arizona art community for over the last decade, previously curating a variety of galleries, including the monOrchid and Willo North.

The gallery showcases rotating monthly exhibitions, represents a small roster of Arizona-based artists, and participates in the weekly Thursday Scottsdale ArtWalks.

“I am committed to discovering, exhibiting, cultivating, and promoting artists and original contemporary artwork of all mediums,” Royse says.

What prompted you to open an art gallery?

After more than a decade of working in the arts here in Arizona, curating multiple galleries, I decided to create and focus on my own selection of artists based in Arizona in my own space in Old Town Scottsdale. [I wanted to be] able to bring Arizona artists to collectors in Scottsdale, as it has a very reputable and long-running ArtWalk, as well as a stellar public arts project, and museums.

What type of art does your gallery showcase?

Royse Contemporary exhibits a wide variety of contemporary artwork, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and installations by both emerging and established Arizona artists. We currently represent 10 artists, in addition to featuring special guest artists.

Do you have any favorite artists?

I love all types of art, but as a young child, I was drawn to artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Lee Krasner, and Mark Rothko. I am drawn to color, organic forms, and nature. Obviously, I am a huge fan and advocate for the amazing artists represented here at Royse Contemporary. 

 Courtesy Royse Contemporary

Motto you live by?

The motto I live by is, “Hard work, perseverance, continual learning, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing!”

Favorite locales to spend time at when you’re not at your gallery?

I love venturing to museums, galleries, the theater, and more all around our Valley with my three children and husband. We love exploring art of all varieties, history, science, and music. Some of my favorite venues include Tempe Center for the Arts, Mesa Contemporary Art Museum, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Phoenix Art Museum, and so many great galleries located throughout our great state and beyond!

Any advice you’d share with those first getting into the art world?

For those just getting into the art world, I encourage them to intern with museums and galleries, and continually explore and learn about the galleries, museums, and artists. Hard work and dedication are very important as the arts are not an easy field to work in or be successful at. Keep with it and never get discouraged, as the field of art is dynamic and ever-changing.

Courtesy Royse Contemporary