Hi, I'm Malena
I grew up surrounded by the arts in a very humble beginnings kind of way. Free classes at the Fitton Center? I was there. Pyramid Hill? Obsessed. Union Terminal? My happy place. I practically lived in the library (pre-Google days, folks) searching through microfiche like a mini historian and using the library’s only computer with Windows ’96 to research the Spice Girls and art history. Call it range.

In middle school and high school, I was a full-blown arts kid: trombone in band, dance team sequins, poms for cheerleading, harmonizing in show choir, and emoting my heart out in school plays. The fact is, no one grows up saying, “I want to be an arts dealer!” (I mean, what 12-year-old even knows what that is?), but it was clear I was destined for the a world in the arts—just not exactly sure how.

Fast forward to college at the University of Cincinnati. I majored in communication (no, not the "news anchor" kind—the interpersonal one) and even got a minor in art history. I climbed the student government ladder and joined Tri Delta for the sisterhood and the philanthropy. Somewhere along the way, I was crowned Miss Cincinnati and snagged Miss Congeniality at Miss Teen Ohio pageant—a title that proves I’m the friend you definitely want at your dinner party.

Then came graduation day. I herded my cats, waved goodbye to the Midwest, and drove straight to Los Angeles with no job, no apartment and not a single prospect. Armed with boundless positivity and determination, I hustled, scavenged, and clawed my way into the ultra-niche, ultra-chic world of fine designer furniture. Turns out, my love of art, history, and a good treasure hunt was the perfect cocktail for success.

After nearly 15 years in this industry, my peers consider me an expert in modernism. I’ve been featured in The Washington Post as well as a guest columnist in multiple articles for Atomic Ranch Magazine. At this stage in my industry, most dealers are buying exclusively from auction houses and mid-level pickers, but not me. I prefer combing through private collections and dusty estates to find hidden gems that aren’t available to the general public. I sell pieces with a soul that come with a story, and who doesn’t love a good story?!

I’m living proof that you don’t need a trust fund or a roadmap to create a career where the arts and luxury collide. Just a little sass, a lot of hustle, and an eye for the extraordinary.