We recently connected with Justin Berlinski and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Justin, so excited to have you with us today, particularly to get your insight on a topic that comes up constantly in the community – overcoming creativity blocks. Any thoughts you can share with us?
Being able to let your creativity flow when it’s meant to, and letting it be when it’s not meant to. Some of my pieces take 6 months to a year to make depending on what ideas I have for them. When you rush the process the end result suffers. This is something I learned through my own personal experiences the last 6 years I’ve been making art.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My art is made from skateboards! The process starts with collecting old & broken boards from friends, skate shops and remilling into usable lumber. Skateboards are made from maple plywood and depending on the manufacturer, you get really cool colors to work with since some of the plies are dyed.
My journey started off 6 years ago as a hobby at home making rings, now I’m a 5 star seller on Etsy as well as being a member at Urban Workshop in Costa Mesa, CA! That’s where all of my art is made currently.
What makes recycled skateboard art so special are the stories behind each board used. Every failure and success in landing a new trick is engrained into everything I make whether it’s a speaker box, earrings, a knife or a table. Everything is one of a kind with a rich history of skateboarding preserved in each piece.
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?
Have patience with yourself. Getting good at something doesn’t happen overnight and even when you get good, there will be difficult days. The skills and knowledge come with time and experience through trial and error. With the right vision and self discipline you can accomplish anything you put your mind to!
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
The main challenge is gaining a good customer base to make my dream a reality. Being able to work for myself and be truly happy making art for people.
Right now I’m working as a carpenter and making art either after work or on the weekends. Working on some more tables and more eye catching pieces this summer as well as focusing on my marketing more to get my name out there.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/multiplies
- Instagram: @multi_plies
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
