James Wallace

co-founder, president

President and co-founder of nAscent Art New York, James’ responsibilities range from finances, client and artist relationships, HR, marketing, and strategic initiatives. A well-traveled former Air Force pilot with advanced degrees in law and business, James’ varied background and familiarity with a variety of industries puts him in tune with client needs. Besides producing and directing a feature-length documentary that played in theaters, he loves seeing client reactions to nAscent’s work first hand and sometimes joins nAscent art installation teams on site.

Jen Wallace

co-founder, director of art

As co-founder of nAscent Art New York, Jen helps clients acquire fine art by emerging artists for building lobbies, companies' offices, and leading hotels.

Jen has produced dozens of exhibitions and events viewed by hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. An art expert who cares, she has hosted a nAscent-produced web series called Art Seen. She often speaks on panels to discuss issues facing artists, art, and the art industry. Jen also consults galleries, individuals and organizations on artists trending in the marketplace.

When not shaking up the art world, Jen also serves as an executive producer (& sometimes craft services) at Mastodon Films. 

Mariah McVey

senior curatorial operations associate

Mariah survived four years on the Princeton University Women’s Rugby team, completing a degree in Art and Archaeology between matches. Born and raised in Charlottesville, Virginia, she moved to the Big Apple and joined the team after enjoying her summer internship experience at nAscent Art. Her favorite part of her work is curating art moments for the unsuspecting hotel guest, building resident, or office worker. Creating special art experiences gives her great pride. When not at nAscent, you can find Mariah grooving to a jam band, or rocking out on her beloved spin bike.

Barbara Banchik

curatorial operations associate

Barbara, a born and raised New Yorker, is thrilled to be rejoining the nAscent team after enjoying her summer internship experience in 2020. She completed her degree in Art History at the University of Vermont, where she was actively involved in arts organizations both on campus and in the Burlington community. She loves working collaboratively with artists and clients to create exceptional art moments! Outside of nAscent, Barbara spends her time traveling, reading for her book club, trying out new recipes in the kitchen, and making memories with cherished family and friends (and her guinea pig, Matilda).