Alyssa Webb

Who / what are your biggest artistic influences?

I have many influences in the world of candle makers, but as far as main influence, I enjoy the candle makers that follow sustainable practices using high-quality ingredients and are transparent with their customers on best candle burning practices.

How do you define success as an artist?

Being able to adapt to change quickly.  What might be popular in scent right now might not be popular next season.  I am always reading about trending accords in the fragrance world and trying to incorporate them into my custom blends in one way or another for seasonal changes.  

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Being a candle maker is therapeutic for me.  Luxe Intuition was born during the pandemic, and candle making was a way for me to disconnect from all the turmoil and uncertainty.  Three years later, it is still a way for me to disconnect from this crazy world we live in.  Creating candles for people knowing they typically light them for relaxation or some form of enjoyment, brings me joy in knowing I can spread light to them in their time of disconnecting from the world.     

How have you developed your skill at your craft?

Through education and trial and error.  With candle making, there is an exorbitant amount of testing and retesting needed before you can sell a successfully made candle.  A candle that burns evenly down and burns clean without sooting has gone through extensive research to perfect that blend.  Luxe Intuitions custom blended scents undergo about 4-6 months of full testing to ensure our customers' best possible high-quality candles. 

We only use high-grade vegan-friendly oils that blend well into our sustainable coconut-apricot wax blend.  Our coconut wax will burn cleaner and longer than traditional soy wax, and our coconut wax blend will give an amazing hot throw from start to finish giving you an enjoyable aroma versus an over the top hit you in the face scent.  We are not about having the strongest candle in the room, as most of those are extremely toxic and have exceeded the limit of how much oil they should be using in the candle.  Luxe Intuition Candles create an ambiance like no other and last a very long time, up to 80 hours for our 12 oz candles, and we are proud to say our customers enjoy this the most about our line.   

Very cool! What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Creating the perfect scent.  Scent if so subjective, and only some people enjoy the same aromas.  So to ease this never ending battle we try to have something for everyone throughout our collections that are still unique and intriguing to our customers.  We pride ourselves in creating custom scent blends you won't find anywhere else.  

What’s the best thing about being an artist?

The best thing about candle making is when I am at an event and a customer comes up to me and says “Your candles last forever and I don't get headaches from them!”  You will not believe how many people I get that tell me they can't burn candles because they get nauseous or extreme migraines, and then once they have had ours burning and it doesn't happen to them, it is such a relief and breath of fresh air.  This is actually how Luxe Intuition came to fruition.  I am extremely sensitive to scent.  I developed the line around my sensitivities and created candles that were enjoyable and safe to burn.  I have attracted this type of customer and now I have a growing community of customers that can now enjoy candles safely without having headaches or nausea.  

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I have a love for nature and being outdoors.  One of my favorite places to go, and is also very close in distance to where I live, is Waterton Canyon.  When I developed my Colorado candle collection, I knew I had to incorporate notes that made me feel like I was there even if I wasn't.  And wouldn't you know, this custom blended scent creation happens to be our top seller for 2023.  We also ended up calling it Waterton Canyon, and this candle is gifted time and time again with return purchases, and we hope to keep this scent around for a long time as long as our customers keep enjoying it.  

And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

The ever-evolving landscape of makers.  I have met many talented artists over the last few years of attending events, and their talent always blows me away.  We have a huge amount of artisans that continue to emerge, and I love the appreciation from customers that understand what it takes to make our products, and they value a quality over-quantity approach in consumed goods.       

We will plant a tree with every purchase you make with Luxe Intuition through a global organization called One Tree Planted.  They go into areas devastated by fires and destruction and create biodiversity through reforestation programs.  Something else I would like to share is our wedding candle collection.  This special collection is fully customizable and makes great gifts for out-of-town guests, bridal parties, bridal showers; and we even have a special candle engraved with the words I Do for the couple to light on their special day to calm the wedding day jitters and to relight at anniversaries.  We also recently launched room & linen sprays.  These are also made with vegan-friendly oils and complement the candles in our collections.   

Catch Luxe Intuition at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.luxeintuition.com

Facebook: www.facebnook.com/luxeintuition

Instagram: @luxeintuition

Amberle Byrne

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

I was born and raised in Webster, New York just a quarter mile from Lake Ontario. I have always been drawn to the water wherever I have lived. At age 22 I left New York and have lived in Alaska, Rhode Island, Georgia, Ireland, Mexico and now Colorado. In every location (except this one!) we were always within a mile of a large lake or the ocean, and the water has greatly influenced my work as I am drawn to beach looks and sea creatures. Seasons have also influenced my work with fall being my favorite (the colors of upstate New York are spectacular), and inspires pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colors.

 How do you define success as an artist?

I am still struggling with the traditional American idea of success as how much money I can earn. Though the more time I spend in the art world, the more I find success to me means enjoying creating new work, having the opportunity to share that work with others both in the U.S. and internationally, having the freedom to balance my life with my work and bringing a little joy to others. 

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Art helped me when I was most struggling with depression and anxiety that began in 2018. Working with my hands helped me "get out of my head" and focus on creating something. 

2018 also kicked off a series of health issues that made traditional work impossible for me as I needed at least 20 hours per week to focus on my health. Starting my ceramics business in 2020 has become an "accidental" career and I love the flexibility that self-employment brings so I can take the time to focus on other areas of life when needed.

My experiences influenced my work in that I love to make pieces that bring people joy.

We love that. How have you developed your skill at your craft?

I came to art later in life. It was not a part of life that was encouraged when I was younger ~ academics, sports and a college degree in something more traditional were the goals. So I hail from 15 years as an International Educator, specializing in student and professional visas and assisting those individuals with adapting to life in the U.S.

A friend of mine invited me to her studio in 2018, handed me clay and said "go." I took four classes from her learning on the wheel, but moved more towards handbuilding over the years. Though I also took a 10 week class on animal sculpture in 2022, I am predominately self taught by watching videos on social media and YouTube, reading books, following groups online for tutorials/advice and a whole lot of trial and error in the home studio.

Very fun. What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Having to stop creating to manage social media, marketing, sales, applications to markets, packing and shipping, and all of the other jobs a one-woman small business owner does! 

I love the days I can just be in my studio and make pretty things!

How has your style changed over time?

Learning that I am a creative person has been the best thing! I had never thought of myself that way, and it has opened a new world with so many other wonderful creative and supportive people.

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

My current favorite item (my husband will tell you I never have just one favorite) are my whale sculptures (pumpkins are a close second). They are my most favorite to make, though also the most time consuming so having time to create them are my best studio days.

And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

The sunflowers growing wild along the side of the roads and in the fields. They are my favorite flower, and it makes me ridiculously happy to drive along passing thousands of them when they're in season.

Catch Amberle Byrne Creatives at Jackalope Arvada on October 13th, 14th, & 15th

Website: www.etsy.com/shop/AmberleByrne

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AByrneCreatives

Instagram: @amberlebyrnecreatives

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

Sara of Slow Burn

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

Como Park (St Paul, MN) is my home. Minnesota has a beautiful landscape of lakes and the simplicity of the prairie has always had a profound impact on me. I realize that part of my passion and love for candle making comes from the simplicity of this landscape. For me, there is no reason to alter beeswax from its pure form (color and scent) which allows me to practice simplicity in my production efforts. Additionally, I proudly source my beeswax locally. In doing so, I support the local economy, the family-run apiary who supplies me with my wax, and the local bees!

Love that! Who / what are your biggest artistic influences?

I am currently obsessed with Lex Lazarewicz (@buttermilk_ceramics), Clara Infante (@shopcopito), and Liz Spencer (@thedogwooddyer).

How do you define success as an artist?

I feel successful when I experience pride in my work and business efforts. Acknowledgement from others of my efforts doesn't hurt either ;)

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Slow Burn is the result of my mindfulness practice. It all started as a part of my morning routine to ground my energy and center my mind, but it has grown into so much more than I ever imagined. As the business grows I continuously remind myself of the love I have for the process of candle making and try not to get caught up in the stress of a growing business.

How have you developed your skill at your craft?

One of the mottos I live by is "when you stop learning, you stop growing" and through extensive research, I have refined my process a few times over. When I first started making candles I would follow the guidelines provided by the mold making manufacturers; specifically with wick sizes. Through countless hours of test burns I have refined the wick selection for each candle style based on which wick will provide the longest and cleanest (drip-free) burn. Additionally, I have a cleaning process that goes above and beyond the standard recommendation and provides an even longer burn time.

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Getting the temperature of the air in my workshop just right. It's wild but if the temp is too cold by a few degrees it messes with the way the candles cure. Since my workshop is in the (unfinished) basement of my home, controlling the air temperature can be really tricky.

Oh interesting! What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

Currently it's the Funky Taper. This candle gives you the burn of a classic taper AND a decorative pillar. It's really fun to watch it burn and create an intimate vibe at the dinner table.

What’s the best part about being an artist?

Creating art is a fulfilling journey that I cherish for multiple reasons. Firstly, the immense freedom that accompanies being an artist empowers me to shape my own creative path. Without the constraints of a boss or rigid timelines, I revel in the liberty to experiment with my process and manifest my unique visions. This autonomy not only fosters personal growth but also infuses each candle with authenticity and a true reflection of my inner self.

What do you love most about Minneapolis?

Minneapolis captivates me with its vibrant blend of culture and arts. The city's rich cultural tapestry, manifested through its diverse neighborhoods, offers a constant source of exploration and connection. I am enamored by the thriving arts scene, from the iconic Walker Art Center to the intimate galleries tucked away, each fostering an atmosphere of creativity and expression. The city's commitment to public art and innovative installations further adds to its allure, creating a dynamic environment that continuously ignites my inspiration.

Anything special you’d like to share? One in every three bites of food we eat depends on bees for pollination 🐝💛 Thank you bees!!!

Catch Slow Burn at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.

Web: Slowburncandles.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/slow.burn.mn

Instagram: @slow.burn.mn

Sarah of El and Gray Design

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

I grew up in the Twin Cities and currently live in Minnetonka. Thankfully, the Twin Cities has been a community rich in the arts. So, I have been exposed to so many creatives my whole life. The supportive community here allows me to feel good about what I do and I am continuously encouraged!

Who / what are your biggest artistic influences?

I try to stay on trend with color, textures, and styles. So I walk around stores (everywhere from Target to Anthropologie) to see what’s happening at the moment. Oddly enough, I find myself influenced less from other jewelry makers and more from people great at what they do in their creative element (chefs, painters, sewers, etc.)

How do you define success as an artist?

I feel that success is waking up and finding joy in creating, regardless of sales. To me success is also about keeping my integrity throughout the whole process of what I do.

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

Oh my goodness, yes! My art has opened my eyes to the beauty of small businesses and supporting independent makers. Additionally, my art has allowed me to meet some of the loveliest people in the Twin Cites. I’ve had experiences I never dreamed I’d have (being on TV, having my product in stores and on the runway, etc).

How have you developed your skill at your craft?

I am self taught (well, to be honest, I am YouTube taught!). I started watching video tutorials of people working with polymer clay and making earrings. From there I practiced, practiced, practiced! I also invested in some nice tools.

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

As for my small business as a jewelry maker - it’s just me! There’s no team to bounce ideas off of or collaborate with. So, one of the hardest parts of my creation process is focusing on the making (my favorite part! I love making new designs!) while trying to juggle marketing the product, photography, shipping, inventory tracking, accounting, etc, all at the same time. 

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

I currently am selling some three-tiered petal dangle earrings with gold in the edges. They are a current favorite.

What’s the best part about being an artist?

The best part of being an artist is looking at something I worked hard to make and thinking, “I made that! I brought that to life!”. 

And finally, what do you love most about Minneapolis?

I adore the arts, food, and beverage scene! I have a hobby Instagram account dedicated to highlighting coffee, food, wine, and cocktails in the Twin Cities (@sarahssenses).

Catch El and Gray Design at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.

Web: www.elandgraydesign.com

Instagram: @elandgraydesign

Jen of Blue Heron Body / Home

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

Being raised on a hobby farm in Elk River, MN until I was 12 years old meant that I spent a lot of time outside…hunting for agates, running around in the yard, and climbing trees. We planted lots of flowers and vegetables and had chickens, cows and pigs. I loved spending time looking up at the trees and the sky and to this day draw a lot of inspiration from nature…trying to keep ingredients as close to natural as possible while creating soaps and scents that bring us closer to the outdoors.

How do you define success as an artist?

For me, success has a lot to do with priorities and values. Am I able to enjoy the journey of creating and running a business while loving my family and spending time with friends and recreating? Do my products help people in their own busy lives to spend some moments of rejuvenation feeling pampered and cleaner, calmer and cozier? Am I living and producing in a way that has minimal environmental impact and brings people closer to nature? Are we giving back in a way that makes a difference in the lives of women around the world? These are the things I think about when I’m defining success for me & Blue Heron Body Home.

Love the intention behind it all. How have you developed your skill at your craft?

Earning a BA in Chemistry from the University of MN Morris has certainly helped with skill and confidence in formulating and creating products. Also, having four children and a loving husband has helped with overcoming challenges in business. Family has been my anchor and allowed me to experiment with new ideas and creations over the years and I find myself making things that ease stress and bring relief.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

One of my favorite products is our bath butter melts. Baths hold a special place for me as I find lots of relaxation and calm in a candle lit bath. The melts are made from raw organic fair trade cocoa butter that supports the ladies in Ghana who hand process it. It is one of the smallest things (.3 ounces) I make, and it makes the biggest difference to my skin.  I enter the tub feeling tired and my skin feeling dry, and I emerge feeling relaxed and moisturized. They’re pretty great!

What do you love most about Minneapolis?

Minneapolis is one of the most beautiful cities and among the best places to live in the country! We have bike trails, walking trails, green spaces, access to water and transportation, a great food scene, and artists and orchestras!  It offers a place for everyone and is becoming more that way as time goes on which makes it hospitable and a great place to call home!

Catch Blue Heron Body Home at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.

Web: https://blueheronbodyhome.com

Instagram: @blueheronbodyhome

Lindy of Apothecary 19

Where are you from and does that have an affect on your work?  

I am originally from St. Louis, Missouri, but I have been living and working out of Northeast Minneapolis, Minnesota for over five years. While Minnesota is my home now, STL and all of its fun quirky bits will always be deeply ingrained in my soul.  The biggest way living and working out of NE Minneapolis has affected my work is just the monumental support of the community. There is this really great cooperative vibe to the maker/artist community in NE, and Minneapolis in general. One like I’ve never experienced. And, well, Minnesotans just love to support each other so that’s been the cherry on top of it all.

Very true! Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

Oh boy. This is a hard one to answer. I’ve always been a bit mesmerized by other creatives in general - makers, artists, writers, musicians, etc. There is something profound in the ability to create something that causes others to feel and connect with their emotions. That admiration, and knowing I possess that same talent, inspires me to keep going when I might be in a slump.

When I sit down at my bench to create something new I draw inspiration from people, places, memories, books, music, or feelings and go from there. How do I turn this memory into a scent that evokes the same emotions I felt when I was living it? How do I make that resonate with others?

A certain scent can definitely take you back to a memory! How do you define success as an artist?

Creating things that I love that bring me joy. It's a bonus when other’s love them as well. As long as I’m making things for me and not just for others’ blind consumption, I’ll consider myself a success.

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?  

It’s a coping mechanism. I have CPTSD and I’m a very anxious person. Creating is the only time I can quiet my brain. If I’m having a hard time regulating my emotions or my brain is in overdrive, getting my hands busy quells the inertia and brings me back to earth. Even if, sometimes especially if, I have to make a hundred of something. I’ll put on some noise and just get to work. I only have to focus on creating and that takes me out of a loop.

I also love doing markets. If left to my own devices, I’d rarely engage in social activities so getting out in the community and meeting people that either make or appreciate art feels good. It is great to feel a part of a really interesting group of people.

Love that. How have you developed your skill overtime?

A lot of trial and error. When It comes to making things, there isn’t much that intimidates me or that I think I can’t do. So I’ll come up with an idea and try to make it work. When I get lucky it’s a home run the first time, other times I have to go back to the drawing board once or twice. I feel like the refining stage is where the growth really happens and I appreciate that. It would be boring if everything was easy.

The biggest and most helpful thing I’ve learned is when to say this isn’t going to work and it’s time to move on. I think that’s a pretty great lesson to apply to all areas of life.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

When it comes to the actual making part, it is definitely the scent formulation. Whether I’m developing a scent for my regular line, a commission, or something that folks have strong opinions about, like a book character, I spend a lot of time and effort trying to get it right.

The other part of the process that can be challenging is the balance between creating and the other aspects of my life. Ask anyone who knows me well and they’ll tell you I’m a workaholic. When you’re lucky enough to have a job that doesn’t feel like work, striking that work/life balance can be really difficult.

How has your style changed over time?

My overall branding and offerings have been pretty consistent from the beginning. The biggest way my style has been transforming recently is where I draw my inspiration from. When I first started out, I focused mainly on memories, places, and seasons for my scent profiles. Now I’m sourcing more inspiration from books, music, and other aspects of my life instead of things that I know everyone loves or things that “make sense.”

It makes me think of that scene in The Devil Wears Prada when Meryl Streep’s character says, “florals for spring? How groundbreaking.” These days, I’m trying to stay away from the predictable. You can get that from Target.

What’s the best thing about being involved in the ?

Everyday brings something new and different, even if the process for everything is the same. My capacity for doing the same thing over and over is about two years. I learned this during my time in the trenches of corporate work. Being both self-employed and creative, I get to set the pace. If I get bored with something, which doesn’t really happen anymore, I just work on something else. I create something new. I don’t feel like a cog in a machine anymore.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

Scent No. 13. I am obsessed with all things Halloween, spooky season, and the Occult; the weirder the better. When I launched my first line of candles I purposely skipped No. 13 because I knew I wanted to save it for Halloween. Honestly, I think the scent description sort of speaks for itself.

No. 13 is a scent inspired by the path of night. A love letter to my absolute favorite season of the year - the season of the witch.

Homage to our aunties and to our grandmas who weren't witches, but were superstitious. 😉 To the thinning of the veil, and the return to the dark part of the year. A time for resolutions for the year ahead. A time for contemplation and rest after the harvest.

It's the smell of spells—incense, sweet tobacco, the crisp air of a full moon's night, and the cauldron's spent ashes.

What do you love most about Minneapolis?

Everything. My husband and I moved here from St. Louis to grow roots and start a family because it had everything we wanted - good schools, great parks, fun things to do. The vibes are just different here. It probably has something to do with the brutal winters, but Minnesotans genuinely love this place and that’s really fun to be a part of.

Anything special you’d like to share? 

One question I get asked the most is, “why are they all numbers?” I did this intentionally so that people aren’t influenced by a name. When you’re looking at a number and a handful of scent notes, you get to decide what it smells like, instead of me telling you. Not only does this help folks branch out from a familiar scent, it also makes for some really great conversations at markets. It’s one of my favorite parts of interacting with my customers.

Catch Apothecary 19 at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.

Web: www.apothecary19.com

Instagram: @apothecary19

Michelle of Dandelion Naturals

Where are you from and did that impact your work?  

We live in a very small farm community in SE Minnesota, about 90 minutes south of Minneapolis.  We live on a 10 acre homestead with chickens, cats, dogs, apple trees, and gardens (when we have the time). While it's not a quick and convenient drive to Minneapolis, we wouldn't trade country living for anything.  It's peaceful and offers us a place to rest from the busyness of life. 

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

Nature is my biggest influence! Nature offers us so many wonderful natural ingredients to use that enhance our health and heal our bodies. Nettle, Dandelion, Calendula, Yarrow are just a few ingredients that are available right here on our property that I use in our products. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Customer satisfaction and providing products that are unique and different from other makers. 

Does being a maker help you in other areas of your life?  

There is definitely something magical about doing work that you truly love. While it definitely has the 'grind' feel some days and has many highs and lows, getting to do something I believe in and am 100% passionate about for work is really a special thing. 

How have you developed your skill over time?

I simply don't give up. I keep trying until I'm satisfied.  I'm not ashamed to ask for help or advice.  I have failed at a particular type of soap process two times and haven't been able to perfect it yet.  I love to have a challenge to work at.  

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

I've never been fond of the saying "There's just not enough hours in a day." However, that feeling is truly the hardest part of owning my own business.  Going from hobby to business is another level; I have to prioritize my time to allow for creative work and product development. There are always 'business' things to do and they are generally not 'fun' things to do so it's vital to sketch out time to do the things that made me start this thing in the first place! 

What’s the best thing about being involved in the maker community?

Interacting with customers at shows and meeting other artists! And freedom with my time.  I'm busier than ever, but I have control over my schedule and there is no better feeling. I have a 4 year old daughter and this time with her is an answer to prayer. 

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

Our cold process soap bars are made with 100% all natural ingredients and are made the old fashion way. They are what started Dandelion Naturals and they are truly unique. We offer a large selection of over 50 different options. Customers go nuts over how good they smell and feel on their skin.  We only use essential oils and we curate very unique blends that are different from other bars on the market. It's an amazing feeling when the smell and aesthetics of our booth at markets lure people in.  The unique smell of our product is always a great conversation starter. 

What do you love most about Minneapolis?

Opportunities! and all the beautiful people and the diversity. While I love living in the country, I look forward to my frequent travels to the cities. I've made so many new connections and friendships. I'm so grateful. 

Anything special you’d like to share? 

We are working on Shampoo and Conditioner bars for our next launch (date TBD)! We are so excited to offer this product.  I have been using them and they are a game changer.  No more huge plastic bottles taking up space in the bath. They are travel friendly and last a long time. And the best part is they are effective; my hair has never been healthier. 

Catch Dandelion Naturals at Jackalope Minneapolis on September 23rd & 24th, 2023.

Web: https://dandelionnaturals.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dandelion-Naturals

Instagram: @dandelion.naturals

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

I’m originally from Seattle, Wa but I relocated to Los Angeles 16 years ago. I still spend about 2 months out of the year there and consider it to be my other home. I grew up mushroom hunting, making forts in the woods and looking for gnomes in logs so I would say that I am quintessential “cottage core” through and through and it shows in my work.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

You wouldn’t know it from the pieces I make for people’s homes but I love Jean Dubuffet, Cy Twombly, Phillip Guston, Ellsworth Kelly, I could go on and on. Currently my favorite living artist is Carole d’Inverno. With tufting what most influences me is the yarn itself, and whatever music I happen to be listening to at the time.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success to me is getting up everyday and creating something. Love it, hate it, don’t care, but you made it. It’s daily engagement, endless curiosity, constant seeking and ongoing dialog with your artistic self.

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?  

Tufting is my second act as an artist. I’ve been a musician my entire life and that has always been where my focus as an artist has been. I’ve always enjoyed painting as a hobby but up until now that was my extent as a visual artist. The month before the pandemic began and we all started staying home I had released a solo record. But suddenly I couldn’t play shows, couldn’t promote it, etc. After that record I was feeling fairly burned out as a musician as it was, but with the isolation of the pandemic I just stopped writing. I stopped hearing melodies. I became disillusioned with being a musician. At that time I had been doing some punch needle for fun and I really loved it. Then I saw a tufting video. I was immediately mesmerized and knew I had to try it out.

From the first moment I picked up a gun I knew I had found my thing. I never thought there would be anything that I would engage with and love as much as music but tufting completely consumed me immediately. The truly wonderful thing that has happened through exclusively tufting and pouring all my energy into that, is that my music has started to come back to me. I’m hearing melodies and little lines of music again. And most importantly, I am wanting to play again. Having taken all the pressure off and engaging daily with something I love so much is bringing me back to my first love, music.

How have you developed your skill at your craft?

I work every single day. I am constantly trying new ideas and I am failing as well as succeeding on a regular basis. In tufting you are kind of on your own. As time goes on there is more and more information available to tufters but when I started it was incredibley hard to find help. This is why I have opened up a tufting school in L.A.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

That I am just one person. I wish I could clone myself! What people see of tufting are usually sped up videos of tufting and snippets of trimming but each piece really takes a long time to finish. The act of tufting is about a quarter of the entire process. The glueing, backing and trimming take the majority of the time and even a small piece like a mug rug can take me hours to do.

How has your style changed over time?

I started with just doing very cute pieces like kawaii style fruits and flowers. At the same time I was making a lot of paper cut out style pieces for a more “sophisticated” design appeal. So it was kind of 2 sides of my personality being represented from the start. As I’ve developed I am still working with both sides but on a much deeper level. If I make a cute mushroom or fruit rug, now a ton of shading is involved and I’m pushing to have more and more of a 3D effect in every piece. For my more “sophisticated” work I am playing with textures like crazy. On average I use 3 different kinds of tufting guns on each piece so that I can play with depth. I’ve started doing some monotone pieces so that the texture is the main focus. It’s really exciting to see where I’m at now compared to where I was when I started. I can’t wait to see what I’m doing a year from how.

What’s the best thing about being involved in the arts?

For me it’s the act of improvisation and the mystery of what will result from being in the moment. Whether it’s tufting designs without any planning or creating music on the spot, I love the thrill of just going for it and tapping in to exploring who I am as an artist at that exact moment.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

I love my carpet bomb clock a lot. It makes me smile whenever I see it. Doing that piece really leveled me up when it came to shading and creating a 3D effect. Plus I love that it’s mixed media with the wires sticking out and the clock’s lights.

Anything special you’d like to share? 

I have recently opened a tufting school with classes from beginner to advanced levels so that people can learn the art of tufting easily and with support.

Catch Tuft House LA at The Downtown Burbank Arts Festival this June 3rd & 4th

Web: www.tufthousela.com

Instagram: @tufthousela

Tell us a little more about Novel. What is your mission?

At NOVEL School of Art, our mission is to give disabled artists the tools they need to build thriving careers in illustration that are exciting, dignified, & tailored to suit their lifestyle needs. 

When and how did you get started?

I started this business during the COVID-19 pandemic to gain a sense of control in uncontrollable circumstances. As the world became more unstable and more isolated, I wondered how artists with disabilities would navigate this “new normal”. How would the pandemic affect their futures? How could I help disabled artists thrive in a post-pandemic job market?

I began teaching 4 talented artists in the comfort of their homes, & realized that I could help them start their careers without needing to wait for the world to return to normal. I turned my client’s work into toys, party supplies, & sticker packs, watching as their confidence grew! For the first time, they saw themselves as professional artists.

Who / what are your biggest artistic influences?

I’m inspired by dreamers with a passion for lifelong learning! My biggest influences are renowned art agent Lilla Rogers, author Elizabeth Gilbert, & my childhood favorite- Tomie de Paola. 

How do you define success as an artist?

I feel like you’ve found success as an artist when the menial, difficult parts of your work are worth pushing through, because you know that what you’re doing is in line with who you are and how you’d like to see the world.

Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

My art helps me keep a sense of wonder. It’s a form of self care when the world feels dark, and reminds me that we are capable of making magic.

How has your career and art developed?

I was fortunate enough to receive a full tuition scholarship at Art Center College of Design, where I majored in Illustration. In my senior year, I interned at the Tierra del Sol Foundation as an Art Instructor for disabled adults. That experience set me on a long, LONG journey to where I am today.

What is typical work day like for you?

A typical day can include up to 3 classes with individual artists in their own homes. I usually arrive with a trend board related to the seasons, and we'll brainstorm product ideas together. "What would you like to create next?" It's a very collaborative process, and the client always has the ultimate say in what they'd like to create. Our goal is to help each artist develop a body of work & a brand that can be included in the broader mainstream markets so that the world doesn't restrict them to the title of "outsider art". They are fantastic, capable artists deserving of professional opportunities. We're very excited to work with Jackalope again!

That’s so cool - honored to have you join us! Do you have a favorite item that you sell?

Our hand painted wooden gifts are a crowd favorite! Every artist in the program has come such a long way with their fine motor skills and attention to detail, and their imaginations really shine when they create something like a set of nesting dolls, a wish box, or a wooden book purse. Some of my artists struggle with visual impairment, but with some accommodations like a magnification light, they've made huge strides in craftsmanship! I can't wait for everyone to see what we've made together.

So excited to see what you all have been working on in person! What is the hardest part of the creation process?

I overthink a lot, and can sometimes shame myself into making work that isn’t who I am in an attempt to appear more “professional” and worthy of financial investment. It’s funny though, because any time I do that, the piece winds up failing completely. When I trust that I am enough, as my authentic self, that’s when my pieces succeed and resonate with people.

What’s the best thing about being involved in the arts?

The best thing about being involved in the arts is helping people manifest dreams that they thought were impossible. Artists can get lost in the illustrious details of their own vision, forgetting that there are big, boring, painstakingly practical steps they need to take to make big things happen. I love being there to support people through the emotional gravity of those steps, since those are the moments when you’re likely to talk down to yourself and question your dream. Keep going. Your dream can be real!

What do you love most about Pasadena?

Pasadena feels like a peaceful moment paused in time, away from the hustle & bustle of LA. I love that I can get to all my basic needs within a 5 minute drive, and I’ll probably never leave this place.

So well said. Anything special you’d like to share? 

As artists, dreamers, and lifelong learners, we are in the business of hope. Keep working towards what ignites your inner spark.

Catch NOVEL School of Art at Jackalope Pasadena on November 18th & 19th!

Web: www.novelsoa.com

Instagram: @novelsoa