Terry Eaton shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Terry, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
One of my proudest recent moments was at a hotel grand opening when the leadership team shared how much they loved the art collection and how strongly it contributes to the overall guest experience. During the opening remarks in front of hundreds of attendees, the CEO spoke about how the hotel would ultimately succeed in part because of the design and the art. Hearing that kind of recognition from ownership and leadership was incredibly meaningful. Moments like that reinforce how powerful art can be in shaping a place and elevating a property.
On a lighter note, I always find myself laughing when our team at Eaton Fine Art gets together. It usually starts with someone sharing a funny story from a project or something that happened along the way, and before long, everyone is laughing. Those moments are a great reminder of how lucky we are to collaborate with people we genuinely enjoy working with.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My career has truly come full circle, guided by a lifelong passion for art, creativity, and giving back. As a teenager, I sold my own artwork at the “starving artist fair” in San Antonio, business cards in hand, thinking of myself as a freelance artist sharing my creativity with the world. That early experience laid the foundation for my lifelong pursuit of connecting people with meaningful art.
In 1992, I founded Eaton Fine Art after recognizing a need for a more creative, immersive approach to art in the hospitality industry. Over the past 34 years, my team and I have curated engaging and memorable art collections for hotels around the world. Based in Austin, Texas, our full-service art consultancy has partnered with renowned hoteliers, design firms, and hotel brands such as Marriott International, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, MGM Resorts International, IHG Hotels Group, and Hilton Hotels & Resorts®, delivering collections that transform spaces and elevate guest experiences.
What sets us apart is our deep understanding of both art and hospitality. We don’t just select artwork, we curate experiences. Every collection we create tells a story, enhances a space, and fosters an emotional connection that lasts beyond a guest’s stay.
Above all, I’m proud that Eaton Fine Art remains rooted in that original passion for creativity. For us, it’s not just about beautiful art; it’s about creating moments, connecting with people, and leaving a lasting impact with every project.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was a creative child trying to find my way and discover which creative path felt right for me. Creativity was always a big part of my life. As mentioned, when I was young, I sold my own small paintings and craft pieces at the “starving artist fair” from about age 13 to 16. At the same time, I explored creativity in many forms, I took art lessons, voice lessons, guitar and piano, and even spent weekends sewing with my grandmother.
When it came time for college, I decided to study both business and art at the University of Texas because I wanted to run a business of my own. In many ways, that decision reflects who I’ve always been: a creative soul who also understands the value of building something sustainable.
Looking back, I think of myself as a creative kid long before the world started placing labels on what that should look like. My creativity was expansive and encouraged by my mother, who believed it shouldn’t be limited. That’s a message that still feels important to me today. As an openly gay man, and really just as someone who believes in nurturing individuality, I think it’s essential that we allow children to explore their creativity and discover whatever it is that they are passionate about during their youth. You never know where that curiosity and expression might lead.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to always believe in yourself and always maintain your integrity. Talent, ambition, and energy are all important, but integrity is what truly defines who you are and how people remember you.
There’s a quote by Warren Buffett that has always resonated with me: look for three things in a person—intelligence, energy, and integrity. If they don’t have the last one, don’t even bother with the first two. That idea has stayed with me throughout my career. No matter the situation, holding onto your core principles and staying true to who you are will always serve you well.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire people who use their voices to create change and amplify others rather than seek power. I started reading Malala Yousafzai’s memoir, Finding My Way, after hearing her interview on NPR, and I was inspired by how she stood up to oppression while uplifting others. I also greatly admire Dr. Jane Goodall. Her lifelong dedication to chimpanzee conservation and advocacy has fascinated me since childhood (I’ve always wanted a chimp!). Their courage, compassion, and commitment to making the world better are truly inspiring.
There are so many amazing individuals in our industry, but one that I admire is Aliya Khan, whom I’ve known for more than 25 years. She’s brilliant, gracious, and an incredible brand leader. In her role as Vice President of Design, Global Design Strategies at Marriott International, Inc., she has had a tremendous influence on the industry. Beyond her accomplishments, what I admire most is her leadership style and the way she carries herself, with generosity, authenticity, and intelligence.
As previously mentioned, Warren Buffett’s quote has always stayed with me: look for three things in a person—intelligence, energy, and integrity. If they don’t have the last one, don’t even bother with the first two. Aliya embodies this completely. Her intelligence and energy are evident in everything she does, but it’s her integrity—her unwavering commitment to the highest standards that truly sets her apart.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m definitely doing what I was born to do. That’s why I have such passion for this work, and why I’m so grateful for the team I get to collaborate with. Together, we create spaces that spark joy, inspire learning, and leave lasting memories, whether in hotels, multifamily residences, or corporate offices.
One example that really sticks with me is our collaboration on a 3,000 project with a Las Vegas-based client. I later ran into their design manager at a NEWH Hospy Gala, and she shared how much feedback they’d received. Guests loved the art in the rooms and throughout the property. Moments like that remind me that we’re doing meaningful work, and it’s truly our team that enables all of this to happen.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eatonfineart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatonfineart/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eaton-fine-art-austin/
Image Credits
Terry Eaton
