An idea that grew from conversations during lockdown, Artfull was founded by two passionate art lovers who believe that a life full of art is a meaningful, joyful, soulful, beautiful life.
What makes Artfull special?
At Artfull, we are about more than selling art. We’re about the people and passion behind it too. Go beyond the artwork with our exclusive artist interviews and studio visit videos. Gain knowledge and insights into the Aotearoa New Zealand art world through our stories, reviews and articles. Discover a world of art books and beautiful things that go hand in hand with a life full of art.
If it’s artful, you’ll find it all on Artfull
Artfull founders
Jessica Agoston Cleary
Co-founder & Director
With a background in advertising, branding, and new business development, and having recently completed her postgraduate studies in Art History, Jessica has spent her life living and breathing creativity.
Working alongside one of New Zealand’s leading gallerists, as well as being a key member of the team that delivered Artweek 2020 and 2021, she knows first-hand in the unique challenges that exist for artists and galleries - challenges which have been heightened in recent years. Recognising this, Jessica sought to contribute to the ongoing growth and development of a strong, globally relevant New Zealand Art market. Combining her multidimensional skills, knowledge and insights, she leads the team at Artfull with wisdom and passion.
John Barnett
Co-founder
John bought his first artwork in 1970 from Peter McLeavey. A wonderful Don Binney, which still brings him pleasure and contentment 50+ years later. He is well known for the Film and television titles he has brought to audiences in New Zealand and around the world – Footrot Flats, Sione’s Wedding, Whale Rider, Outrageous Fortune, Almighty Johnsons, Westside, and many more. He is currently a director of Shift 72, the New Zealand based ‘all in one’ Video Streaming Platform powering the world’s leading Film Festivals (Sundance, New York, Toronto and 300 more.)
Artfull founders
Co-founder & Director
With a background in advertising, branding, and new business development, and having recently completed her postgraduate studies in Art History, Jessica has spent her life living and breathing creativity.
Working alongside one of New Zealand’s leading gallerists, as well as being a key member of the team that delivered Artweek 2020 and 2021, she knows first-hand in the unique challenges that exist for artists and galleries - challenges which have been heightened in recent years. Recognising this, Jessica sought to contribute to the ongoing growth and development of a strong, globally relevant New Zealand Art market. Combining her multidimensional skills, knowledge and insights, she leads the team at Artfull with wisdom and passion.
Co-founder
John bought his first artwork in 1970 from Peter McLeavey. A wonderful Don Binney, which still brings him pleasure and contentment 50+ years later. He is well known for the Film and television titles he has brought to audiences in New Zealand and around the world – Footrot Flats, Sione’s Wedding, Whale Rider, Outrageous Fortune, Almighty Johnsons, Westside, and many more. He is currently a director of Shift 72, the New Zealand based ‘all in one’ Video Streaming Platform powering the world’s leading Film Festivals (Sundance, New York, Toronto and 300 more.)