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.
Instagram: @elandgraydesign