I sat down with one of the hippest professionals in Jackson Hole’s art scene – Shari Brownfield.

We met at her new project space in the “Wort cabin,” better known to many as the small, cute cabin next-door to Trio. Shari’s eye for art was apparent from the moment I opened the door. She has absolutely transformed the space, in which she will host thoughtful exhibitions, special events, and an educational speaker series. It’s open, airy, white, and full of paintings of all genres.

sharis space

Shari began the art advisory firm - Shari Brownfield Fine Art - in 2015 after more than twenty years of combined gallery, museum and art brokerage experience. She is actively involved in the local nonprofit art community on a volunteer basis, serving on the boards of the Center for the Arts and the Art Association of Jackson Hole. Her volunteer work goes beyond even the arts—Shari is on the Community Safety Network board as well.

Shari Brownfield Fine Art is a full-service art advisory firm offering clients comprehensive guidance with buying and selling fine art, collection management services, home curatorial consulting, and art appraisals. One example is advising families how to lend their art to museum exhibits to share their beauty with the public.

For those of us who aren’t quite there (yet), I asked Shari,

“What is the most important piece of advice you would give an aspiring art collector? Where do I start, especially on a modest budget?”

She replied,

“Buy something you love. Make sure it’s not because you feel pressured or you think it will increase in value.”

Shari continued, explaining that from there research is the best friend of any collector. Learn about the artist. Feel connected to the artist. How does the piece relate to the rest of their work?

“It’s fun to follow that artist’s path. That's why art transforms lives. It's because when you bring artwork into your home, it’s not just a canvas on your wall. You’re bringing a story. It becomes an intertwined story of your life.”

She hosted an opening at her project space a few weeks ago. The cabin was bustling with interesting, colorful people. It was a perfect reflection of the art on its walls.

Sharis space

Did you know?

Shari took a hiatus from the art world when her daughter was born. While at home she sewed clothes for herself as a creative outlet. People repeatedly asked Shari where she bought the clothes, so Shari started an Etsy shop called Soren Lorensen Design. In a matter of a month she had 40 custom orders and in time was employing two full time seamstresses to help.  It ended up a kid’s clothing line sold locally and nationally, including a feature on Zulily.com!  A few years later Shari returned to her true passion of fine art.

Sharis space


To learn more about the artistic community in Jackson Hole visit our Arts & Culture page.

This story is a part of #humansofjhchamber campaign that shares the faces behind our local businesses and nonprofits. Learn about their inspirations, why they started in their industry, and more! Find the Chamber on Instagram, @jhchamber. For information about the program, please contact Director of Membership, Elisabeth Rohrbach, elisabeth@jacksonholechamber.com or 307.201.2301.