Curating Artful Connections: An Interview with Sarah Hurt of Seattle Art Source
We recently sat down with Sarah Hurt, founder of Seattle Art Source, to learn about her work forging connections between interior designers, architects, and artists since 2017. Often described as a "modern-day art matchmaker," Sarah has built a business dedicated to making original artwork more accessible. For many, selecting art can feel overwhelming. Why is that? What makes the process so intimidating, and how can it become more approachable? We explored these questions and more in our conversation.
Sarah Hurt, Founder of Seattle Art Source
TSD: Many artists I’ve met in Seattle have followed unconventional paths to get where they are today—often starting in entirely different fields before finding their way to art. Can you share a bit about your background? Was there a defining moment when you knew a career in the arts was your calling?
SH: My background in the arts isn’t traditional. It all started when my brother-in-law, who owned a furniture showroom, needed art for his showroom walls. He asked for my help, and that small request set everything in motion. At the time, I was running a seasonal Christmas market and working closely with creatives, so I was already immersed in that world. I knew I wanted to be involved in the arts somehow, and this opportunity gave me a way in. I started a small showroom within his firm and gradually began collaborating with artists, learning the ropes of curation as I went.
TSD: Your bio mentions that you’ve lived in Switzerland and traveled to over 35 countries—wow! How have those experiences shaped your approach to art and curation? Are there any particular cultures or artistic traditions that have had a lasting impact on your work?
SH: I spent my teenage years moving between Africa and Europe—my parents were missionaries, so I grew up immersed in different cultures. In my twenties, I worked with nonprofits, which took me to Switzerland and back to Africa for various projects. Travel has been a constant in my life, and it’s deeply shaped my perspective on art.
One of the most impactful trips was a recent visit to Berlin with my family. I was struck by how art is preserved and used as a form of political expression. The murals, protest art, and historical pieces I encountered reinforced how art not only reflects culture but actively shapes it.
Traveling has given me a broad perspective and a certain fearlessness in my taste. But I’ve also had to balance that with the needs of the Seattle market, curating work that resonates with the community I serve.
TSD: Seattle Art Source has been described as a ‘modern-day art matchmaker’— what a unique and compelling concept! For those who may not be familiar, can you share what Seattle Art Source is all about and how it works? What inspired you to start this business?
SH: Seattle Art Source exists to make sourcing original art as effortless as possible for homeowners and design professionals. Art is an essential part of a space—it adds depth, personality, and meaning—yet many people feel uncertain about how to find the right pieces.
When I first started placing artwork in my brother-in-law’s showroom, I kept wondering: what happens when a piece doesn’t sell? That question led me to realize a larger issue—many interior designers didn’t have easy access to original art, and there wasn’t a simple, seamless way to bridge the gap between artists and the design world.
There are so many unknowns when it comes to selecting art: When should it be introduced into a project? How does it fit into a budget? My goal was to simplify the process and create a service that connects artists, designers, and homeowners in a way that feels natural, inspiring, and approachable.
TSD: Can you walk us through your design process? How do you help clients select the perfect piece while accommodating different styles and budgets?
SH: When interior designers reach out, they usually have a specific project in mind. I curate pieces that align with their vision and, when needed, bring artwork directly to their client’s home so they can see it in the space before making a decision. Designers and homeowners are also welcome to visit our gallery to explore pieces in person.
Seattle Art Source offers multiple ways to shop—clients can browse in person, explore our online collection, or take advantage of our concierge service for a more tailored experience. Often, art is an afterthought in a project, meaning it needs to complement an already completed space. My goal is to make the art-buying process joyful and accessible, no matter the budget. Our collection includes pieces ranging from a few hundred dollars to investment-level artworks, ensuring that every client can find something meaningful for their space.
TSD: What role do you think art plays in enhancing everyday life, and why is it important to make it more accessible?
SH: Art is essential. Imagine a world without it—how bleak would that be? Because we’re constantly surrounded by art, we often take it for granted. Accessibility is just as important. We’re committed to promoting underrepresented artists, particularly female artists, who have historically had fewer opportunities in the art world. We also make a point to showcase figurative work—a genre that can sometimes be a harder sell but is incredibly important to highlight.
TSD: What are some common misconceptions about buying original art, and how do you help clients overcome those concerns?
SH: One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to be an art expert to make a purchase. But the truth is, everyone already has opinions about art! Just like we naturally gravitate toward certain books, movies, or music, we all have an innate sense of what we like visually.
I always encourage clients to trust their instincts. You don’t need a specialized vocabulary or formal training to appreciate or invest in art—you just need to connect with a piece. That’s why I’ve designed Seattle Art Source to be a welcoming and approachable space, where even those who feel uncertain about art can discover something they truly love.
TSD: Can you share a success story where a piece of art truly transformed a space or resonated deeply with a client?
SH: Just last weekend, a client came in and purchased a bold, expressive painting—their first new piece since buying from me four years ago. Their original purchase was a collection of large statement pieces, and at the time, they assumed it would be the only art they’d need. But after moving into a new home, they realized they needed another bold piece to anchor their entryway.
It was so rewarding to see them continue making bold artistic choices. Watching clients evolve in their art-collecting journey and seeing how pieces shape their homes over time is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.
Seattle Art Source in collaboration with Erin King
TSD: What advice would you give to interior designers or homeowners who feel hesitant about incorporating original art into their projects?
SH: Don’t be afraid—just come talk to me! My job is to make the process feel effortless and enjoyable.
One of the biggest concerns I hear is about practicality—people worry about art getting damaged by kids, pets, or daily life. I always reassure them that original art is far more durable than they might think, and beyond that, it’s an investment worth making. The right piece doesn’t just decorate a space, it transforms it.
TSD: How do you see Seattle Art Source evolving over the next five to ten years?
SH: I truly love what I do, and if I’m still doing this in ten years—helping bring thousands more paintings into the world—I’ll consider myself incredibly lucky.
My focus is on growing the business organically while staying rooted in Seattle. I don’t have grand expansion plans, but I’m always exploring new ways to connect artists with designers and homeowners in meaningful, impactful ways.
TSD: Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re particularly excited about?
SH: Absolutely! In May, we’re hosting a show for Paige Stewart, a brilliant sculptor from Denver. Sculpture is a new venture for Seattle Art Source, and we’re excited to expand into this medium. Her work is incredible yet accessible, both in style and price point.
Then in October (2025), we’ll be hosting our second annual Form Over Function showcase, which highlights figurative work. This show is especially meaningful to us as we continue to support and celebrate the artists we love while sharing their work with the Seattle community.
Form Over Function: October 2025 | Paige Stewart: May 10
Learn more about Seattle Art Source.