Marziyeh Ramezani of Faam Gallery talks to us about setting up and running her business. The fine art gallery in Whitton specialises in promoting emerging and established Persian and international artists. The gallery also provides professional picture framing and giclée printing services.
How would you describe your business in one sentence?
We are a family-owned business based in Whitton specialising in the sale of fine art and the framing of artworks.
When did you launch and who is behind it?
I first launched the business in 1993, with the help of my dad, whilst living in Iran. In 2011, our family relocated to London and in 2019, I opened our second gallery in Richmond.
Tell us a bit about your heritage
I was born in Iran and when I was 24, established Faam Gallery, a fine art gallery situated in the beating heart of the capital. Prior to opening our gallery in Richmond, I had organised a number of art exhibitions and festivals and showcased artwork and jewellery pieces from over 500 international artists.
Does entrepreneurship run in your family?
Yes, my son Amir is the second generation in our business and since his graduation in Chemistry at Queen Mary has been helping the family business in marketing and sales.
How has your heritage influenced your business?
I come from a culturally rich background, enriched with profound values, lessons, and inspirations. As an artist, I have learned to perceive and deeply appreciate the significance of these values, which I have integrated into my business practices. It brings me great pride to showcase and celebrate remarkable artworks from Persia, while also extending my support to our local artists.
The journey of promoting and portraying these diverse talents is one I cherish, and I remain committed to fostering a vibrant artistic community that bridges the gap between our heritage and the contemporary world.
What inspired you to launch the business when you did?
When I was 24, I began to highlight my artwork at a small shop in north Tehran. In addition to my solo exhibitions, I hosted a number of art classes for both children and adults and gradually invited other artists to exhibit. My love for art and passion to promote artists enabled me to grow and persue my passion.
To date, I have trained more than 150 art students and organised over 300 solo and group exhibitions around the world. I am also proud to have organised 11 national festivals, three of which were sponsored by the United Nations and received national and international recognition.
What type of support have you received since starting your business?
We have built our business from nothing in the UK and have strived to stay independent. Beside the kind support of our beloved friends and our community, our small family has worked hard to build and grow Faam in Whitton.
What were three of the most challenging aspects of setting up the business?
- Attracting the right customers – reached through strategic marketing and community engagement.
- Establishing a strong presence in the competitive art market.
- Creating an inviting atmosphere to encourage public entry – this was achieved through events, art fairs and interactive displays. Exhibiting high quality artwork from international and renowned artists to leave a positive impression in the community and change the level of cultural art on the high street.
What happened to your business during lockdown?
Opening the gallery just months before the lockdowns brought immense challenges as the pandemic forced an 18-month closure, causing financial and emotional strain. Despite the adversity, the unwavering support from the local community helped us endure.
If you had the opportunity to do it all again, what would you do differently?
While we would not change much about our journey, I do wish we had explored more business networking groups and various funding opportunities for expansion. These avenues could have opened new possibilities and accelerated our growth, enabling us to reach even greater heights.
What three tips would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs?
- Starting your own business is a challenging and risky pursuit that demands significant sacrifices. Success requires perseverance, dedication, and the willingness to learn from mistakes and choices.
- Great leaders are not born but shaped by their experiences, and the ultimate reward lies in witnessing the joy and happiness that your business brings to others. Embrace the journey with determination, and you will discover that the fulfilment of entrepreneurship far outweighs the challenges along the way.
- Move beyond monetary success; build a visionary future where your business positively shapes and impacts the society.
Tell us about your latest venture
We plan to expand our online sector and picture framing side and become a leading manufacturer of bespoke frames and exhibit art online.
I like being based in Richmond because…
Of its community, the vibrant diversity and the rich culturally tapestry that it offers.
How can people find you?
- Visit our website
- Facebook: Faam gallery page
- Instagram: @faamgallery
- Address: 131 Percy Road, Whitton, Twickenham, London, TW2 6HT
