Finding motivation is especially difficult when the results are uncertain. Trust me, I have made pieces I was deeply disappointed by and they now only exist in my memory. But I have also made beautiful work I hope will live forever. However, both of my successful and not so successful work has taught me the skills and lessons that have pushed me to where I am today and taught me there is nothing to fear other than not trying. Like the saying goes: there is no light without darkness.

I was surrounded by people who cared and wanted to see me succeed in whatever I was working on. I’d get feedback right away or pointers or praise. I could ask for help if I needed and this informal education is what truly helped my work advance.

I’d describe my aesthetic as clean, black and white and a mixture of sporty and high-end products. I do not like to feel like I am a brand ambassador for one brand, but I do not shy away from designs that I like. As a designer, I respect timeless designs and well-made products from all walks of life.

Some of my most successful designs and pieces, I doubted ever making and have put down on the table after starting for a few weeks or months. I respect this process, if I am not feeling an idea or a project, I let it rest. Until I am in the right mindset. But I try to not wait for too long; also known as procrastinating.

I am used to answering hundreds of questions by now but recently one of my students asked me “When did you find out you are an artist?”