Meet Summer Lakes Beverage
Joe of Summer Lakes Beverage
Where are you from and does that affect your work?
I was born and raised in MN and grew up in the NW suburbs of the Twin Cities. Growing up in this area, I learned that hard work, dedication, and relationships are the pathway to success. Hardworking and vibrant Midwest culture is deeply rooted in my character, and I’ve used that culture to achieve our goals and overcome any obstacle along the way.
Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?
Thomas Keller (Chef of the French Laundry restaurant in CA), Various Chefs I’ve worked with and, Lee Zimmerley, my mother (most talented artist I’ve known).
How do you define success as an artist?
I know we’ve done something right when we are so proud of our work that we can’t wait to present it to others. Artistic success is achieved when you create something that you are excited to share with others so they can enjoy something as much as you enjoyed making it.
Does your art help you in other areas of your life?
As an artist, I’ve learned that there is an artistic quality component to everything I do. This has helped me succeed in achieving many personal goals in my life by pushing me to go above and beyond the norm and get the details “just right”.
What is the hardest part of your creation process?
That small step between having an idea and making it come alive. Ideas create excitement and trigger emotions. Translating ideas into something real can be a long process of patience and perfection.
How has your style changed over time?
It hasn’t. Our style from the beginning has been all-natural, quality ingredients with no shortcuts to be made. Producing a quality product that we are proud to share with others will always be our style.
What’s the best thing about being an artist?
The feeling of genuine appreciation when someone experiences your creation.
What do you love most about Minneapolis?
Art, music, food, and entertainment! Minneapolis is a large enough city to attract and retain top talent while also being small enough for up-and-coming artists to break into the art community.
Anything special you’d like to share?
We are a small, local, family-owned business and we support local as well! Summer Lakes Beverage is committed to investing time and resources into local communities. You can find us cleaning up highways, working at food banks, supporting nature preservation organizations, and running our facility as green and efficiently as possible.
Catch Summer Lakes Beverage at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.
Web: www.summerlakesbeverage.com
Instagram: @summerlakesbeverage