Vita Brevis - Business, Art, Life and Death

Carlos Cardenas
  • 5.0 (1)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Vita Brevis explores how business, creativity, and philanthropy intersect through the lives of remarkable people. Through conversations with entrepreneurs and community leaders who are collectors and patrons of the arts, the show examines how art shapes the way they think, work, and build legacy. Because life is short - but art is forever.

Episodes

  1. 1D AGO

    Max Dolgicer on the Scarcity Paradox - Scaling Tech and Collecting Art

    In this conversation, tech entrepreneur and art collector Max Dolgicer shares his journey from Israel to the U.S., discussing the intersection of technology and art, the importance of education, and the dynamics of the art market. He reflects on his experiences with startups, the role of immigration in success, and the evolving landscape of art technology platforms like Artsy. Dolgicer emphasizes the significance of passion in both technology and art, while also addressing the challenges and volatility of the art market. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Max Dolgicer 04:56 The Immigrant Experience in Tech 08:44 Max's Entrepreneurial Journey 18:02 Art and Technology: A Dual Passion 22:18 The Role of NFTs in the Art World 26:49 Investing in Artsy and the Future of Art Platforms 32:08 The Impact of Data Transparency on the Art Market 35:48 Assessing the Health of the Current Art Market 38:54 The Trend of Galleries Selling to Private Equity 41:21 Understanding Market Volatility and Collector Mindset This interview was recorded on January 16, 2026

    49 min

  2. FEB 4

    Alain Servais on Escaping the Algorithm - Art, Money, and Resistance (Part II)

    Summary of Part II In this conversation, Alain Servais discusses his unique perspective on art collecting, emphasizing the importance of ideas over mere aesthetics. He reflects on his journey from finance to art, highlighting how art has shaped his critical thinking and worldview. Servais advocates for challenging art that provokes thought and discussion, rather than conforming to popular trends. He also addresses the financialization of art, cautioning against viewing it as an investment. Throughout the dialogue, he shares insights on the responsibilities of collectors and the future of the art market. Chapters 00:00 Scarcity in the Art Market 01:52 Collecting Ideas vs. Artworks 08:10 The Evolution of Artistic Appreciation 10:31 Challenging Art and Personal Growth 13:13 The Role of the Collector 15:53 The Value of Art vs. Commodities 24:16 The Financialization of Art 30:17 The Future of the Art Market

    42 min

  3. JAN 28

    Alain Servais on Collecting Ideas - Finance, Art, and Conviction (Part I)

    Summary of Part I In this conversation, Alain Servais shares his unique journey from investment banking to becoming a prominent figure in the art world. He discusses his early experiences in New York, his accidental introduction to art, and how his psychological journey intertwined with his appreciation for art. Alain emphasizes the subjective nature of art valuation, the intersection of art and finance, and the manufactured scarcity in the art market. He also reflects on the changing landscape of art collecting and the importance of understanding the stories behind artworks. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alain Servais 02:06 Early Career on Wall Street 02:07 Understanding Art Beyond Investment 21:02 The Nature of Financial Markets vs. Art 30:14 Scarcity in the Art Market Episode recorded December 29, 2025

    38 min

  4. JAN 14

    Chris Erck on Building Worlds - Hospitality, Design, Tech, Branding, Art, and the Business of Taste

    Chris Erck shares his multifaceted journey as an entrepreneur, collector, and real estate developer. He discusses the importance of art in his various ventures, including his innovative real estate projects in San Antonio, his new boot brand, his tech startup, and his furniture design endeavors. Chris emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with inspiring individuals and the value of learning throughout the entrepreneurial journey. He also reflects on his desire to create a lasting cultural impact through his work with artists and the community. Chapters 00:00 The Essence of Art and Life 02:59 Chris Erck: A Multifaceted Journey 05:39 Art's Influence on Business and Design 09:28 Innovative Real Estate Development 14:08 Crafting a Unique Boot Brand 17:31 Furniture Design and Auction Ventures 21:25 Navigating Multiple Business Models 30:28 The Role of Art in Entrepreneurship 40:08 Legacy and Cultural Impact 44:19 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Episode recorded on December 16, 2025

    46 min

  5. JAN 11

    Debbie Dupré on Philanthropy, Public Institutions, and Art in Service of the Public

    Deborah Dupré shares her journey from law to the art world, detailing her experiences in various cities and her current role as president of the board at the Contemporary Austin. She discusses the importance of cultural institutions in fostering community engagement and the evolving art scene in Austin. Deborah emphasizes the need for curiosity, strategic thinking, and inclusivity in both the art world and business, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities within the local art ecosystem. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:11 Deborah Dupre's Journey in Art and Law 05:23 Role and Responsibilities at the Contemporary Austin 09:40 Connecting Art, Law, and Leadership 11:14 First Artistic Experiences and Emotional Connections 14:46 Collector vs. Dealer Mindsets 17:05 Economic Realities of the Art World 20:54 The Commercial Gallery Ecosystem in Austin 25:53 The Importance of Local Artists and Regional Galleries 28:10 Cultural Fabric of Austin 31:26 The Role of Arts in Business 32:46 Philanthropy and Audience Engagement 37:05 Corporate Involvement in Arts 41:01 Cultural Impact and Legacy Episode recorded on December 11, 2025

    44 min

  6. JAN 7

    Joey Hovsepyan on Art, Risk, and Why Business Isn’t as Rational as We Think

    In this engaging conversation, Carlos and Joey Hovsepyan explore the intersection of art and business, discussing Joey's journey from the steel industry to becoming an art collector. They delve into the importance of innovation in both fields, the influence of living in artistic cities like Los Angeles, and the evolving nature of artistic taste. Joey shares insights on the economics of art, the significance of personal connections to artwork, and offers valuable advice for aspiring collectors. The discussion highlights the subjective nature of art and the importance of supporting emerging artists and institutions. Takeaways Joey's artistic journey began in Montreal and evolved through various cities.The steel industry is outdated and ripe for innovation.Art can soothe and challenge viewers simultaneously.Collecting art is a reflection of personal identity and values.Art should bring joy, regardless of its monetary value.The art world can be unwelcoming, but efforts are being made to change that.Legacy in art involves supporting artists and institutions.Aspiring collectors should learn and develop their taste over time.Avoid speculative trends in the art market. Collect what you love.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vita Brevis 02:50 Merging Art and Business 05:50 Joey's Journey in the Steel Industry 09:00 The Intersection of Art and Steel 11:52 Living in Los Angeles: An Artistic Hub 14:53 The Emotional Connection to Art 17:45 Art as a Daily Practice 20:10 Innovation in Business and Art 23:08 The Economics of Art 25:59 Conclusion and Reflections 26:06 The Economics of Art Investment 29:04 Developing Taste in Art 30:40 The Context of Art Display 32:31 Subjectivity in Art Appreciation 36:00 Raising a Child in an Artistic Environment 39:06 Legacy and Cultural Impact 41:14 Advice for Future Collectors Episode recorded on November 20, 2025

    44 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

Vita Brevis explores how business, creativity, and philanthropy intersect through the lives of remarkable people. Through conversations with entrepreneurs and community leaders who are collectors and patrons of the arts, the show examines how art shapes the way they think, work, and build legacy. Because life is short - but art is forever.

Information

You Might Also Like