We had the good fortune of connecting with Agatha Wright and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Agatha, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I have been a risk taker for as long as I can recall being able to make decisions. I have always considered the notion between risk and reward as a driving impetus for progress and change- both in my life and in cultivating my career path. I am a firm believer that without risk there is no reward. As children we are often taught to shy away from risk but as we develop into mature adults- there is an understanding that when we risk taking the road less traveled, we are also potentially welcoming unfathomable success. My career can be described as extremely diverse and juxtaposing. A ballerina working both on and offstage- writing grants, producing, and collaborating with artists who are often considered controversial, marginalized and novice. Despite the unconventionality there is a deep passion for classicism through the execution involved in my art making process. Yet equally indicative of my work is the willingness to go against the grain. As often illustrated, I have dedicated my career to breaking the mold. To be a risk taker means you must love what you do so much that you understand the consequences of failure wholeheartedly yet still choose to take the chance anyway!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Nothing has come easy in my professional career. I have worked for every title, honor, and award I have received. I have worked hard and with severe intention and competition. Education has always been a very strong component to my success. As a lover of academia, I continue to learn and sharpen my skills still. This year I completed my first course at Harvard’s Business School Online and it completely changed my perspective regarding entrepreneurship. Fluxus Haus Inc. came to fruition as a means of transforming the lives of those who are often overlooked or forgotten. The artists on the fringe of society truly driving ingenuity and unique systems of practice are not always equally represented in their constituencies. When I started the organization, it began as a springboard for those in my community who felt marginalized and misunderstood. I had felt this way too. The first 3 years after the formation of the organization I worked multiple jobs to sustain the business while paying my employees.
This year in March I obtained the 501 (c) 3 tax exemption status. This was an incredible milestone for the organization. This exemption allows for access to grant funding and much needed capital to keep the organization afloat and continue my work in the community. Along the way I have learned that perseverance is essential to running any successful business. Things have been changing rapidly in this economic climate. Ingenuity and the ability to pivot quickly is also critical. Another important facet of running a successful business is the strength of your team. Building healthy relationships with your business partners and employees are crucial to maintaining a smooth operation. I want my brand to be remembered for its unique ability to discover talent that is considered novelty, inclusive and representational of what America looks like today- which is highly diversified and multi-cultural.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live for cultural experiences… I would recommend the following locations: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens- scenic and historical landmark. Wynwood Walls- an eclectic community representing the creative diversity seen in contemporary and street art. Treehouse- a great lounge where you can dance, or network with new interesting industry professionals. Dania Beach Peer- a great beach location for families and couples looking to take in some fun in the sun. Puerto Sagua- best Cuban eatery on South Beach!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are two fundamentally important collaborative partnerships which have changed my career and assisted in my development as a producer, artist, and administrator- The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and my latest venture with the incredible artists of Sultry Society LLC. At Cultural Affairs I learned the technical elements of managing budgets, grant compliance, inclusive strategies while working with disabled youth and many other important skills needed to operate a non-profit organization.
Conversely, my work in the for-profit business sector has also shaped me as an entrepreneur. As Chief Financial Officer for the talented group of artists encompassing Sultry Society LLC. I have witnessed firsthand the passion, dedication, and camaraderie exhibited by the team during the pandemic. During extreme hardship, the group has continued to produce and employ artists in the South Florida region and New York. I am beyond humbled and honored to work with such talented professionals.
Website: www.fluxushaus.org
Instagram: @ladyflux
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agatha-wright-aa4015127/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agatha.wright1
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9_kzKKZVTBVdC9w2-_VUAw?view_as=subscriber