Storefront Stories is presented by the Nantucket Island Chamber of Commerce. We are featuring various island business in hopes to promote how our local entrepreneurs are adapting to this new environment
and promoting the amazing things they are doing for our island community. We will be introducing different businesses to show how they have chosen to pivot, their recent experiences, personal growth,
and any tips or advice they have learned over the last 6 months.

Quidley & Company has been a staple on Main Street in Nantucket since April of 2006. With three locations in Nantucket, Naples and Westport, Quidley & Company represents the best of contemporary
realism and impressionism and works with clients to build collections of distinction. The gallery features landscapes, portraits and figurative works, marine and still life’s by the preeminent artists working today. Quidley’s consulting services encompass acquisition and installation to curation and design.

The Nantucket Chamber spoke with owner, Christopher Quidley.

1. What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced during the time of COVID-19 both personally and professionally?
The biggest challenge I have faced during this uncertain time is the worry of disappointing people who rely on me. This includes our artists and my employees who have placed their trust in me for 15 years
now. Our team at the gallery, including our artists have continued to work together despite their own personal challenges to keep our doors open and keep our galleries filled with artwork that resonates with people both on-line and in person.

2. What are some ways you and your business have adjusted to this ‘new normal’?
Though we have always offered to send artwork on approval and visit with our collectors we are discovering that more art fans are taking advantage of this approach. In addition we are reaching out
with weekly blasts showcasing new arrivals and exciting new finds, increasing our exposure with online art marketplaces We are also thrilled to announce that we have created a virtual gallery that will allow
people who are unable to visit us in person to enjoy the same experience. The link can be found on Quidley & Co's website here!

3. How has COVID-19 made you a better businessperson or store owner?
COVID-19 has made me even more appreciative of simple things that I took for granted in the past. I am grateful for the support of the friends of the gallery and the artists I have the privilege to represent. These artists have continued to produce inspiring work and our clients are true patrons of the arts. I have discovered I am connecting more with fellow store owners and am in more regular contact with our collectors strengthening our bonds.

4. What are some helpful tips and insight that you might give another leader of a business?
Take things one day at a time. Be open to possibilities.

5. What is a positive outcome of COVID-19?
Time with my family that I never expected to have at this point in my life has been a joy. With a sixteen and an eighteen-year-old in the house, those weeks in quarantine gave us so much fun time together.