Lisa King’s Inspiring Journey in Art and Entrepreneurship From Model/Actress to Art

Lisa King is an inspiring entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the art industry. Starting with humble beginnings as a model, Lisa discovered a deep love for the arts that would shape her path. She pursued her passion relentlessly, leading her to travel, work, and study across cities like London, Los Angeles, and Cape Town. Today, she is not only a successful art curator but also a dynamic force in the creative world, blending her expertise in art and entrepreneurship to empower artists and art lovers alike.

She began her journey in the creative world at a young age. By the age of 14, Lisa was modelling and eventually internationally too, starring in over 50 commercials and gracing magazine covers around the globe. After years in the spotlight, including a title as Miss Teen South Africa, Lisa decided to broaden her horizons by moving to Los Angeles, where she immersed herself in acting classes and the world of theatre. Reflecting on her time studying Shakespeare with the Juilliard School, Lisa shares, “That experience shaped me. I grew so much as an artist – working with such an iconic institution gave me the confidence to fully embrace my creative journey.”

After years of modelling and acting, Lisa felt a calling toward the visual arts. In 2001, she returned to South Africa and established her first art gallery in 2004 in Cape Town’s Cape Quarter. Working alongside her mother, she dedicated 14 years to creating a welcoming space for both established and emerging artists. “My mother and I poured ourselves into the gallery. It was about building a space where people could connect over art, where artists could showcase their work in a meaningful way,” Lisa recalls. This shared vision not only fostered a vibrant community but also helped lay the groundwork for Lisa’s future in art curation and entrepreneurship.

During this time, Lisa’s entrepreneurial spirit also came to life with The Lisa King Collection, a women’s footwear brand launched in 2008. Balancing her roles in fashion and art, Lisa’s collection reflects her eye for unique design. “Both art and fashion are ways of expressing oneself,” she explains. “The Lisa King Collection is really about bringing artistry into everyday life.”

When the Cape Quarter shifted to residential use, Lisa and the gallery tenants had to relocate. Undeterred, she seized the opportunity to reimagine her approach to art curation. In December 2022, she launched Art Trader, a boutique gallery with a fresh vision. Art Trader not only showcases new work from artists Lisa represents but also offers a marketplace for clients to resell pre-owned artwork. “Art Trader gives art a new life. We’re here to support artists and connect people with pieces they might not have discovered otherwise,” Lisa says with pride. The gallery also hosts exhibitions, auctions, and paint jams, bringing art into the heart of Cape Town’s creative community.

Working with her business partner, David, Lisa has created a dynamic artistic space that attracts collectors, artists, and art lovers alike. Her dedication to showcasing both contemporary and classic art allows her to support a range of voices and styles, encouraging people to connect with art in new ways.
Today, Lisa’s work with Art Trader and The Lisa King Collection is a celebration of women in art and entrepreneurship. Her journey embodies resilience, creativity, and the drive to uplift other artists and designers. Lisa King’s story is a powerful reminder that, with vision and commitment, women can inspire others, nurture communities, and leave a lasting impact on the creative world.

Discover more about Lisa’s artistic journey and explore a diverse selection of artwork by visiting Art Trader. Check out the latest exhibitions and unique collections at the gallery or get in touch with their team to learn more about buying and selling art. Follow Art Trader on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ArtraderSA/, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/artradercpt/ and visit their website at https://artrader.co.za/ to stay updated on upcoming events, auctions and exclusive pieces.

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Author: Zané Neethling from Paddington Station on behalf of Lisa King.