In this episode of Skale Up, hosts Julie Kim and Sophie Seymaux sit down with Viola Raikhel, one of the most influential figures in the global arts and culture ecosystem. Viola is a leading international arts executive, curator, and strategic advisor to private banks, governments, family offices, and luxury brands. She is also the author of two published books, Iran Modern: The Forgotten Collection and Spies Like Us: Her License to Kill and Arts Editor at T Magazine Australia. In this conversation, we explore how the art world intersects with finance, luxury, and long-term value creation and the realities of scaling in an unregulated, passion-led industry. Inside the Episode * From law to the arts: how Viola forged an unconventional global career * Founding 1858 and building an independent, impartial art advisory business working with private banks, family offices, and global collectors * Why the art world remains unregulated — and why that matters * Art as an alternative asset class alongside traditional investments * Why the same due diligence applied to finance should apply to art * Balancing passion, emotion, and strategy when acquiring artworks * Under-promise, over-deliver: building trust through transparency and communication * The importance of relationships, reputation, and long-term value * Why collaboration and connection are central to scaling impact * AI, crypto, and digital tools: curiosity, not disruption (yet) * Educating the next generation of collectors and investors * Arts and culture as a powerful soft power tool for governments * Scaling from advising individuals and brands to shaping cities, countries, and cultural ecosystems Why Listen? If you’re a founder, leader, or working across luxury, arts, culture, finance, or retail, this episode offers a rare look inside the business of art and alternative assets. Viola shares how to scale a passion-led business with rigour, integrity, and long-term thinking: blending strategy, relationships, and cultural insight for anyone navigating growth in complex, unregulated markets. Connect with Us * Instagram: @skale_australia * Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skale-australia/ * Email us: info@skaleaustralia.com * Website: www.skaleaustralia.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit skaleaustralia.substack.com
