Meet Terry Eaton

We recently connected with Terry Eaton and have shared our conversation below.

Terry, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

For me, creativity thrives in the richness and diversity of the world around us. I find inspiration in many places, from museums and artist studios to the beauty of landscapes and gardens, and I’m continually amazed by the creativity present in the culinary arts. By keeping my eyes and thoughts open to the abundant creativity around me, I stay connected to new ideas and perspectives.

Traveling to various cities and countries also offers fresh experiences and exposes me to different architectural styles and artistic expressions. Additionally, exploring new environments further fuels my creativity, allowing me to draw inspiration from the global tapestry of innovation and artistry.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

As the President and Chief Curator of Eaton Fine Art, my team and I have spent over 32 years curating memorable and engaging art collections for hotels worldwide. Since our founding in 1992, our Austin, Texas-based full-service art consultancy has partnered with renowned hoteliers, design firms, procurement companies, and high-profile hotel brands such as Marriott International, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Rosewood Hotels, Hyatt Hotels, IHG, and Hilton Hotels & Resorts.

My journey began with a personal passion for art and creativity. As a teenager, I sold my work at the Starving Artist Fair at the San Antonio Riverwalk and even had business cards as a freelance artist. This early experience fueled the vision that led to the founding of Eaton Fine Art in 1992. Recognizing a need for a creative approach to art in hotel environments, we curated diverse and innovative art collections from artists across the globe.

Today, what excites me most about our work is the opportunity to build long-standing relationships with clients and see their satisfaction along with that of their guests, employees, and customers, with our creative vision. We are particularly gratified when design firms and property owners seek us out for the creativity and service ethic we bring to projects. This repeat business is a testament to the strong relationships we’ve cultivated and the collaborative nature of our team.
I’m also proud to share that Eaton Fine Art holds a Minority Business Enterprise certification from the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, and I am an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Our commitment to creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity is central to everything we do, ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional and meaningful art experiences for our clients.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that have been most impactful are listening and effective communication, thinking creatively outside the box, and tenacity. Listening has allowed me to truly understand the needs and visions of our clients, while effective communication has been key in translating those visions into tangible art experiences. Exploring beyond conventional boundaries has driven our approach to curating art, allowing us to bring fresh perspectives and unexpected elements to our collections that resonate deeply with each unique space. And, of course, tenacity has been essential in overcoming challenges and sustaining our success over the years.

My advice for those early in their career is to find a mentor and take ownership of your skills. A mentor can provide invaluable guidance and support, while actively managing your own growth to ensure that you continually advance your expertise and capabilities. By focusing on these qualities and seeking mentorship, you can lay a strong foundation for a successful journey in art curation.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to believe in me unconditionally and support my creativity and personal journey. Growing up as a gay man, their unwavering support extended beyond just my creative goals—they embraced my lifestyle and my relationship with my husband. Their encouragement and acceptance provided a strong foundation for me to pursue my passions and live authentically. This support not only nurtured my creativity but also empowered me to remain true to myself and confidently navigate my personal and professional life.

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Image Credits

Second Image Credit: Hilton West Palm Beach

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