All-in-One Gallery Management with ArtXCloud: Enabling In-House Catalog Creation and Email Marketing

Wa.gallery

Wa.gallery in Shinsaibashi, Osaka, is a contemporary gallery that embodies uniquely Japanese sensibilities through its concept of "Ma" (space) and animism.

Managing everything from exhibition operations to customer service with a small team, the gallery adopted ArtXCloud to boost operational efficiency. We spoke with them about the results achieved after implementation and their future expectations for ArtXCloud.

A Contemporary Gallery Rooted in Japanese Aesthetic Philosophy

—First, could you tell us about your gallery's characteristics and concept?

Wa.gallery opened in November 2020, welcoming artist Wataru Hatano. Initially, we dealt with antiques, but from around 2023, we began earnestly planning and hosting full-scale exhibitions with contemporary artists.

What we cherish is the Japanese ability to perceive space and our gaze toward nature. Under the concept of "Space and Animism," we emphasize harmony between space and artworks by incorporating traditional Japanese elements such as covering entire walls with washi paper, and we select works that are particular about materials.

—Could you tell us about your current operational structure?

The gallery has been operated by a dedicated team of two full-time staff members. During busy periods such as fair seasons, we receive spot assistance, but normally we actively introduce tools for efficiency. We particularly felt the importance of cloud-shared data for inventory management and inquiry handling.

Streamlining Operations: How ArtXCloud Enhanced Traditional Gallery Management

—How has it affected overall business efficiency?

The ability to centralize multiple management tasks has been significant. Previously, we managed inventory with other applications, customers with Excel, and print materials through designers—multiple services—but centralizing with ArtXCloud improved work efficiency. Since registered artwork data can be checked anytime on the cloud, we can now confirm necessary information like artwork details and availability even when out of the office. We also highly evaluate its cost-performance.

—How did your workflow change before and after introducing ArtXCloud?

Before implementation, we first compiled artwork information, then requested our in-house designer and waited for completion—a process that took both time and cost. Additionally, customer management and inventory management used separate tools, preventing information centralization.

During our free time, we can create catalogs on the spot, sometimes producing about 10 catalogs per month. When customers inquire, we can immediately create catalogs for quick responses, allowing staff who preferred antique work to focus on those duties.

—How are you utilizing the email distribution function?

We're working on email newsletters with expectations for long-term effects. We particularly feel the significance of continuously sending information. By sending exhibition announcements three times—one month before, three days before, and after opening—we feel they remain in customers' memories and contribute to building long-term trust relationships. This is an initiative we didn't undertake before introducing ArtXCloud, so we're using it as a new approach method for customers.

Potential for ArtXCloud Across "One-of-a-Kind" Item Handlers, From Niche Galleries to the Antiques Industry

—What kind of galleries would you recommend ArtXCloud to?

I believe ArtXCloud is particularly effective for galleries that handle a large number of items, such as craft galleries, as well as for galleries like ours with a small staff.

Additionally, since the antique industry has unique trading customs, I think there would be very high demand for management tools with special functions different from current ArtXCloud.

If we could respond to such industry-specific needs, I think new solutions based on ArtXCloud's technology could emerge. Since I also started from the antique industry, I'd like to serve as a bridge.

—Finally, what are your expectations for ArtXCloud's future?

While we're achieving high-quality gallery operations with few staff by utilizing tools like ArtXCloud, we hope to eventually be able to utilize all ArtXCloud functions seamlessly on an iPad. 

Moving forward, while leveraging technology, we want to continue pursuing harmony between space and artworks that reflect traditional Japanese aesthetic sensibilities, and provide visitors with a special experience.

Momoko Fujii 2024 

"Harubaru" Material : Rice straw