Turning Luxury Spaces into Vibrant Showcases, Jade Stevens Launches ‘Art Habit’ During R|6.0

*Jade presenting her pitch at R|6.0 Showcase*

In the world of creative entrepreneurship, the path from a spark of inspiration to a thriving business can be as daunting as it is exhilarating. That’s where our creative business incubator program comes in, offering a launchpad for ventures at every stage—from the seed of that first brilliant idea to scaling up an established business. Jade Stevens, a visual artist and entrepreneur, embodies the kind of growth trajectory that our program provides.

After nearly a decade immersed in the rich cultural landscape of the Torres Strait, Jade settled in Nambour, where she now runs her creative studio while steering her innovative venture, Art Habit. This platform is transforming the art experience by turning luxury venues into interactive art showcases. It bridges the gap between local artists and high end audiences, offering a new and engaging approach to discovering and buying art.

Jade’s entry into the program came at a pivotal moment in her career. Encouraged by a fellow artist and driven by a desire to refine her business approach, Jade jumped into the program headfirst. The insights and resources she gained from R|6.0 proved invaluable, providing her with the confidence and tools needed to launch and articulate her vision effectively.

Among the many breakthroughs Jade experienced, overcoming her fear of public speaking stands out. The coaching she received leading up to Showcase was really helpful, offering support and strategies that empowered her to present her work with new-found assurance.

We caught up with Jade to delve into her R|6.0 experience and learn how the program has set the stage for her next big leap in her creative business.

Who is Jade Stevens?

I am a visual artist and entrepreneur with a background in business creation. After nearly a decade in the Torres Strait, I relocated to Nambour, where I now have my studio and home. When I’m not developing Art Habit, I’m actively involved in the local community, running art workshops and pursuing my own career in the arts.

What is Art Habit?

Art Habit is a platform that transforms luxury spaces into vibrant showcases, connecting local artists with untapped audiences. By displaying artwork in high-end locations such as accommodation, healthcare, and corporate spaces, Art Habit offers a unique way to discover and purchase art. Using QR code technology and a virtual gallery, it allows collectors to easily explore and buy pieces while maintaining the integrity of artists in a curated, high-end environment.

What inspired you to apply for R|6.0?

I was in the final weeks of a Diploma of Visual Art when a fellow artist encouraged me to apply. Having seen other artists benefit from the program in previous years, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. So after bootcamp I submitted all of my work for the diploma a week early to attend the first R|6.0 session, and I’m very glad I did.

What was the value of R|6.0 to your business?

The absolute gold delivered through this program has been invaluable, providing insights and resources that transformed my business approach. R|6.0 has equipped me with the confidence and readiness to launch my business, feeling fully prepared to articulate and promote my vision seamlessly.

Can you share a breakthrough moment from the program that really stood out?

There were so many moments that profoundly impacted me, but the most significant would have to be confronting my greatest fear, public speaking. The coaching leading up to Showcase was life changing, and I felt so supported through the whole process.

What advice do you have for anyone interested in the program next year?

If you can make it happen, do everything you can to make it happen. This is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.

What exciting plans do you have for your business?

I am launching a proof of concept here on the Sunshine Coast over the next 12 months. From there, I plan to expand across Queensland and finally, nationally.

Stay connected with Jade on Instagram and through the Art Habit website.

R|6.0 is delivered annually as part of The Refinery, SCCA’s platform of professional development programs designed to support creative practitioners working at the intersection of art, technology, environment and design.

This program is supported by Major Partners: the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, Sunshine Coast Council through the Arts and Heritage Levy, and the University of the Sunshine Coast; and Program Partners: SunCentral and the MET, and The Events Centre, Caloundra.

Learn more about The Refinery programs currently open for applications.

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