We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna Irvine and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, how do you think about risk?
Risk is something that every entrepreneur needs to become intimately familiar with. Often people think that there will be a “perfect time” to start a business or to make a big change. The only requirement for taking risk is the delusional confidence you need to make anything happen. For years I worked in a safe corporate environment and I was petrified of putting my livelihood, my reputation, and my comforts on the line for my dream. However, after years of corporate burnout and frustration with the limitations of a 9-5 job, I decided that I was tired of waiting for an invitation or the perfect opportunity to drop in my lap. To me, the risk of not being happy/fulfilled was infinitely more daunting than the risk of instability. I decided to jump right into entrepreneurship and after a few months of trying to balance my corporate job and my business, I left my safety net behind.

In regards to taking risk in day to day business operations, the more you take risks, the more your appetite for them will grow. You will begin to learn what risks are reasonable and what risks are far fetched with enough trial and error. Failure is necessary for success. Frustration is inevitable. Doubt becomes just another emotion. And risk becomes a familiar friend.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Le Beau Travail (LBT Gallery) is more than just an art gallery—it’s a platform that uplifts diverse voices and creates meaningful connections through art. What sets us apart is our commitment to curating rotating galleries in some of the most exclusive social clubs in the DFW area, where we provide a stage for local artists to shine.

Starts a business is far from easy, but what is easy is waking up every day filled with love and passion for what I do. Challenges arise often but that’s the case with every business. What I’ve learned is that nearly every problem is solvable with a robust and diverse network of friends, professionals, and partners.

I’m incredibly proud of the work we’re doing at Le Beau Travail. Every piece we curate has a story, and every artist we work with adds to the rich tapestry of culture that we aim to showcase. I want the world to know that our gallery isn’t just about selling art—it’s about making amplifying all voices and fostering the love of art in DFW.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them first and foremost to the Tower Club Dallas to try the world class sushi.

After that I’d take them around White Rock Creek Trail in Addison for a cool mid day walk in the shade.

After that I’d take them to dinner at Legacy west at Tru food or to Yoshi Shabu Shabu.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to recognize Debra Richardson, my professor for risk management and insurance. She is a fantastic mentor and dear friend. Her mentorship has encouraged and supported me through every job and life decision.

Website: https://LBTgallery.com

Instagram: @lbt.collective

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/le-beau-travail/

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