1xRun

1xRUN, founded in Detroit, Michigan, is a publisher of fine art and a prominent online destination for original artwork and limited-edition prints, reaching collectors in over 100 countries. Established in 2010, the company has rapidly grown from a side project to a significant player in the art world, connecting artists with a diverse global audience.

History

1xRUN began as a side project spearheaded by Jesse Cory and Dan Armand. Initially operating as an e-commerce store delivering limited-edition, time-released prints, the venture celebrated its fifth anniversary in November 2015. The founders recognized a gap in the art market, aiming to make contemporary art accessible to a younger demographic, including those involved in street art, hip-hop, and streetwear culture.

The company’s growth trajectory has been substantial. From its inception, 1xRUN has published over 5,000 editions created by more than 1,400 artists. In 2014, 1xRUN experienced 100% revenue growth, followed by a 50% increase in 2015. The company’s operations have expanded beyond online sales to include a physical presence with the opening of Inner State Gallery in Detroit’s Eastern Market district in 2013. This space serves as a production hub, an artist-in-residence studio, and apartment space.

Geography

1xRUN is based in Detroit, Michigan. The company’s physical headquarters, Inner State Gallery, is located in the Eastern Market district. Initially, 1xRUN operated from a smaller gallery space in Royal Oak, a suburb of Detroit, before relocating to the larger, three-story, 10,000-square-foot facility in Eastern Market.

While geographically rooted in Detroit, 1xRUN’s reach extends far beyond the city limits. The company’s online platform facilitates sales to collectors and fans in over 100 countries. The artist-in-residence program has also brought artists from 40 different countries to Detroit, fostering a diverse and international artistic community within the city.

Culture

1xRUN has cultivated a distinct culture centered around accessibility and inclusivity in the art world. The company’s business model, based on first-come, first-served sales of limited-edition prints typically priced between $50 and $100, aims to democratize art collecting. This approach contrasts with the traditional art market, which can often be perceived as exclusive and inaccessible.

The company’s focus extends beyond simply selling art; it actively supports artists through its residency program and by representing both well-known and emerging contemporary artists. 1xRUN’s co-founder, Jesse Cory, has been described as an active member of the street art scene and has experience with artist ownership rights. The company’s appeal lies in its ability to connect with a demographic often overlooked by the traditional art world, including those interested in street art, hip-hop, and streetwear.

Economy

1xRUN contributes to Detroit’s economy through employment and its presence in the Eastern Market district. As of 2015, the company employed 24 people, including graduates from the College for Creative Studies and Michigan State University. The company’s growth has allowed it to offer employees a retirement program, providing stable livelihoods.

The relocation of 1xRUN to Eastern Market has also contributed to the revitalization of the area. The Inner State Gallery serves as a hub for artistic activity, attracting visitors and supporting local businesses. While specific revenue figures beyond 2015 are not publicly available in the provided sources, the company was on track to reach $5 million in revenue by the end of 2016, demonstrating its significant economic impact.

See Also

• Eastern Market
• College for Creative Studies
• Murals in the Market