FOUNDER INTERVIEW
OTENTU
Otentu is a global marketplace and development platform designed to accelerate the successof art and design students and graduates. For customers, it serves as a place to discover andsupport new designers and artists, while for creators, it provides a platform to launch theircareers. Together, it constitutes a space to shape the future of art and design expressions. Weare on a mission to assist future artists and designers in achieving success and fosteringcollaboration with their customers.
Lior Arussy
Why did you start Otentu?
The simple answer is that there was no other dedicated platform for facilitating the successof art and design students and graduates. I recognized this need when my daughter, a designstudent, discarded her impressive assignments after receiving grades. Were you aware thatover 4 million beautiful projects like hers end up in the trash each year?
What is Otentu ?
Otentu is a global marketplace and development platform designed to accelerate the successof art and design students and graduates. For customers, it serves as a place to discover andsupport new designers and artists, while for creators, it provides a platform to launch theircareers. Together, it constitutes a space to shape the future of art and design expressions. Weare on a mission to assist future artists and designers in achieving success and fosteringcollaboration with their customers.
How is Otentu different from any other platform?
We are designed to support art and design students and graduates and are fully dedicated totheir success. It is free to join, and we help creators position their creations for success. Theother significant difference lies in Otentu Collections, where we invest in the manufacturing andmarketing of select creations through limited-edition series.
Who are the creators on Otentu?
We represent a diverse group of hundreds of art and design students and recent graduatesfrom the top schools in the world. From Chicago to New Delhi, New York, London, Paris and TelAviv, diverse voices from over 50 schools are selling their one-of-a-kind creations on Otentu.
What makes the creations at Otentu unique?
Every creation embodies a unique and fresh voice of an artist. Many times, ourcustomers are the very first to acquire a creation from the artist, a truly empoweringexperience. Be sure to watch out for the stories behind each creation. Every piece ispresented with its own backstory, which adds an incredible dimension to comprehendand connect with the creation.
How can we help Otentu on its mission?
Every customer is an empowering factor for the future artists and designers. Share ourstories with others, follow us on Instagram and Pinterest, and purchase on Otentu. Everygesture of support gets us closer to achieving our mission.
What creations would I find on Otentu?
Otentu provides diverse creations in several categories such as art, photography, wearableitems, accessories, home décor, and jewelry. These are unique, one-of-a-kind creationsrepresenting different styles and voices. And most importantly, you will not find themanywhere else. They are the perfect gift for people who are looking for the next idea or peoplewho have everything.
Where do you see Otentu in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, we envision Otentu as a thriving global hub for emerging artists anddesigners, continuously redefining how creative talents connect with collectors and enthusiasts.Our platform will have evolved to encompass a broader spectrum of artistic disciplines,allowing creators from various creative fields to showcase and sell their unique creations.We foresee Otentu as a driving force behind the success stories of many artists and designers,providing not only a platform to sell their work but also a comprehensive ecosystem ofresources, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.Collaborations with established brands, innovative exhibitions, and partnerships witheducational institutions will further solidify Otentu's role as a catalyst for creative explorationand commercialization. Through advanced technology, personalized recommendations, and enhanced userexperiences, Otentu will become the go-to destination for collectors seeking original,exceptional pieces and for creators seeking a supportive and dynamic marketplace to showcasetheir talents. Our commitment to empowering creators and celebrating their uniqueness willremain unwavering as we continue to shape the future of the creative economy.