A self-proclaimed “above average doodler”, DOCENT founder Tessa Ercoli has always had a passion for the arts. Her grandfather was a professional artist and art teacher, and she vividly remembers sitting down with him as he taught her about vanishing points, how to draw eyes and faces and especially fun for a kid - how to throw pots on a wheel.  A serial side hustler with an entrepreneurial spirit, Tessa started collecting art for her own home and saw a huge opportunity for improving how collectors discover and purchase art, while also providing real support and technology resources to emerging artists. Having spent many years working for tech start-ups allowed her to conceptualize a first of its kind solution to an otherwise inefficient, often intimidating art buying process. Using her art industry “outsider” status to her advantage led her to create a new model that redefines the art buying experience and puts the artists themselves at the forefront. DOCENT personalizes and simplifies the experience of discovering new artists and collecting contemporary art. We find ourselves at the intersection of helping emerging and mid-career artists thrive while helping collectors shop more easily for pieces they truly love.  Tessa lives in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina with her husband, two daughters, and an endlessly growing art collection.