Meet Beth Eckel

Written by Tom Kelly

Beth, is an artist and founder of Anatomy Art Gallery. She studied painting and drawing in Spain, where anatomy is taught as the foundation of art. She fell in love with the beauty and complexity of our intricate systems working together to make us living breathing beings. She started selling my anatomy art and restoring vintage medical illustrations when she discovered an unmet demand in the healthcare market. Anatomy Art Gallery was founded in 2023 with a mission to transform healthcare environments into visually appealing spaces that are engaging, educational, and conducive to healing.

How did you hear about Venture Café?

I answered a call for artists to display art at a Thursday night gathering. I didn’t know much about Venture Café at the time, but I’m so glad I answered that call.

Have you had any memorable connections at Venture Café Phoenix? If so, please tell us how you met them, who they are and how they have impacted you and your organization?

I make meaningful connections every week I’m there! To name a few, Melissa Lamson first gave me the opportunity to sell my art at Thursday night gatherings. Patti DuBois has become an invaluable business mentor, and Alex Koupal has given me a spot at BioPreneur nights. The judges from the November 2023 Big Pitch Competition, Amy Diaz, Wiley Larsen, Lauren Dunning, and Bob DeLean, continue to offer their support and raise awareness around my work.

Every person who engages with my art, whether it’s to start a conversation, browse, or buy, has an impact. I’m grateful for the interest and interaction with everyone I meet at Venture Café.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by the people around me. Everyone has a story to tell and a gift of curated knowledge to share. I love learning how experiences shape individual lives and how mindsets change them.

Tell us a little more about your current role with your organization and how it has impacted the start-up ecosystem here in the greater Phoenix region.

I’m a lifelong artist but only recently founded Anatomy Art Gallery. My favorite role is artist but I’m also enjoying developing the brand and talking to customers about the ways in which art has impacted them. I can’t say I’ve had much of an impact on the start-up ecosystem yet, but I hope I can say I’m paving the way for more artists to find success in entrepreneurship.

Can you discuss your experience at Venture Café Phoenix and any impact the event has had on your organization?

Winning the Big Pitch Competition was incredibly impactful. Putting the pitch together helped me define and summarize the ideas, strategies, and successes of my business. Getting on stage helped me get outside of my comfort zone. Winning funding went a long way in advancing my business and increasing my confidence. Overall, my experience at Venture Café has been enriching, informative, and meaningful both personally and professionally.

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