Meet Nadja Sayej | Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nadja Sayej and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nadja, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I started ArtStars Agency because I had to pivot. The media landscape has changed dramatically over the past 15 years, and I feel like I have to keep up. It has been a rewarding experience, and with several pleasant surprises along the way. The name of my agency comes from my old YouTube show which I started in 2009, and has the same kind of DIY spirit to get it off the ground. Once indie, always indie at heart.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Anyone can write, but it takes business smarts to sell your ideas. I’m in the business of selling ideas, that’s what I do as a writer, aside from writing. I would say that working at a peculiar intersection is something that sets me apart, be it writing about fashion and pop culture, having a decade-long background as an art critic, and being a writer-photographer. Some of the lessons I’ve learned along the way is to never give up, no matter how hard it gets. Being stubborn has paid off. Seeking inspiration to keep me going has been absolutely key. Always look to those whose work excites you and motivates you. That will help you get out of any rut, and stay on track, achieving, dreaming and looking towards the bright future.

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.
There’s so much in Los Angeles, from its culture to its sightseeing. Let me give you my top three picks. First, The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a must-see for film buffs. Much more than just the Hollywood Walk of Fame, it walks you through a detailed history of film in Hollywood. There is no other museum in the country that has the archive they have, from handwritten movie scripts, to set photography and even film props and costumes, like the red sequin shoes from the Wizard of Oz. Second, the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood is one of the most historic celebrity hotels in the city. The tucked away suites add a touch of old glamor, and still has an old fashioned style to their decor. This is where famed German photographer Helmut Newton passed away, as well. A plaque honors the late photographer right outside the front entrance. Lastly, I recommend a stroll along Santa Monica Pier. Seeing the ocean draped in this carnival-esque glory is a truly west coast experience.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I think that everyone has someone to thank for their career. It’s almost like people show up at the right time. Especially when you need to take an extra step in the right direction. There are many colleagues, friends and family that can act as mentors, too. I have Jamie Angell to thank, a Toronto art gallerist, who always believed in me and what I could do. Having someone believe in you is absolutely key. It helps you believe in yourself. And you can pay it forward, as well, to others so they can achieve their dreams. On the inspiration front, I love books by Brian Tracy, who teaches organization skills and goal strategy, and the wisdom of Karl Lagerfeld, who worked very hard during his lifetime, as creative director for various top-notch fashion houses simultaneously. Lagerfeld once said: “Stuff your brain with knowledge.” He owned thousands of books, and he actually read them. That’s advice we need to consider in today’s world. To look beyond our phones for inspiration. I’m also grateful for friends who have been there to guide me through difficult moments because they can see a situation clearly, the big picture. You always need advisors in your life.

Website: https://nadjasayej.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nadjasayej

Image Credits
BFA