Founded in 2024, Black Etc. is the culmination of the expertise, experience and passions of its founder - Valérie C. Whitacre

Valérie spent over fifteen years as a photography dealer working with internationally recognised galleries, artists and estates. Seeking a change of pace from the traditional art market, she pivoted to an art+tech role leading the global strategy for a blockchain ecosystem. Today, she combines her passion for strategy, art and technology, to work with select clients whose ideas require a strong network, forward thinking approach and knowledge of art market dynamics.

The company name ‘Black Etc.’ is inspired by her fascination with black as both a colour and a concept. 

In painting, it is a combination of pigments.
In physics, it is the absence of colour and form. 

The colour represents as many possibilities as impossibilities; Black Etc. starts every project and professional collaboration with this balance in mind. 

When working with Black Etc., clients can expect a compassionate approach, genuine critical feedback and clear strategic direction. 

Valérie also believes in supporting the next generation of art players offering one-to-one hourly consultations and some subsidised career guidance sessions for those who don’t have the network or exposure to guide their next steps.

Previous employers, clients and collaborators include:

Hamiltons Gallery, London
Le Musée d’Orsay, Paris
Serpentine Galleries, London
Stellar International Art Foundation, Switzerland
The Tezos Foundation, Switzerland
Sotheby's Institute, London
Veritas Park, Wittenberge
Mario Testino Studio, London
Roger Ballen Photography, Johannesburg
Fx(hash) Foundation
Lumen Art Prize

Request an appointment below to learn more about how we can work together to discover, define and meet your goals.