Meet Carlye Grose

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Carlye Grose. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Carlye below.

Carlye, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I am still coming to terms with the nature of feeling like an imposter, or rather, not feeling like one. Learning to accept a quiet reverence for the mystery of existence, recognizing that maybe the magic lies in our inability to grasp it fully. I gain confidence in remembering that while we may not have all the answers, we are interwoven into something infinitely more extensive and beautifully intricate. Suggesting that we need to stop being so concerned with ourselves and just, GO. Creating, for me, has become less about perfection and more about opening space for connection, for grappling with the “big questions” together, and maybe then finding some comfort in the complexity.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I recently started “Studio 208”, a design studio concept that aims to create multidimensional art and design-focused experiences, spotlighting emerging artists and voices around us. My projects focus on facilitating intimately present moments, extending beyond visual representation into an experience where community and like-mindedness converge. 

I have had the pleasure of working alongside artist Anna Lauree in co-curating a group art show called “In Proximity to Eternity” after launching my first curated show, “Biomorphic Sensations,” each exploring the interconnectedness in art, existence, and form. 

Within the shows, I have included some of my own installation pieces. I have been focusing primarily on textile sculptures, which embody a dynamic interplay between form, material, and space. My work explores the fluidity of movement that echoes living organisms and natural systems, each with its own unique, energetic signature. My large-scale pieces create dynamic, immersive environments that invite the audience to explore and visit from different angles. 

As I am building Studio 208, I want my shows to feel like a conversation, a place where viewers are welcome to engage without the pressure of an “academic air”. To feel like a touchstone for a language of interconnections where art isn’t about formality but rather about an open-ended dialogue that brings people together. I value Joseph Beuys’ concept of social sculpture, which sees society as a collaborative creation shaped by each individual’s contributions. Each interaction and body is in the same place in the same moment of time, we share this moment and by being there together, make for the memory that it is. 

So far, it has been such an honor to work with my closest friends and artists I admire, and have the opportunity to curate and produce meaningful exhibits that integrate art, food, music, and great people. I’m so proud of what we have been building and so excited for what’s to come. Studio 208 will be launching our next show in Long Beach, CA, soon. Dates to come!

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

The three most impactful qualities in my journey have been courage, confidence, and following my intuition. All three became equal parts in allowing the other to take form. Being an introvert by nature, I can immediately say how quickly and radically my world was altered when I decided to stop worrying about what anyone thought of me and find the courage to put myself out there. Courage to do the things my soul was craving but was too intimidated to try, courage to put myself in new challenging situations and take more risks. Finding my confidence helped me to be comfortable in my own skin and be myself, which, oddly enough (in satire!) led to making the most genuine connections and relationships, filling my spirit and inspiring my growth as an artist. Of equal importance, I learned to trust and follow my intuition faithfully. It is a guiding light, it is always right. We need to listen and trust. The gift of discernment is clarity. 

What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?

My greatest challenge right now is trying to find the balance between maintaining a career and pursuing my creative endeavors. By day, I am a creative director in the home product industry. Designing ceramics, and other mixed-media tabletop goods. Most of my months are in the air, working with factories and retailers across the globe to produce and bring our designs to life. As much as I love my job, all of my creative energy is spent, with little to spare on the pursuits that I have been working so hard to bring to life. Dealing with the mundane matters of life, maintaining friendships, fitness, and personal growth, feels nearly impossible. But to avoid the perpetual burnout I take it slow, let go of perfectionism, and have more kindness and compassion toward myself and others. Making sure I am getting enough time in nature, is most important in staying true to my roots and my happiness.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @carlyegrose / @studio208__