We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sarah Beth Elkins. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sarah Beth below.
Hi Sarah Beth, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
Growing up, my parents were both extremely dedicated workers when times were good and more importantly when they were challenging. They raised three girls and helped put as all through college, weddings, etc. I believe it’s easier to absorb those types of characteristics when it’s not even a real discussion, it’s just the norm. I have never put myself in the lazy category and don’t plan to! It also helps that I’m extremely passionate about what I do, therefore dedicating time to work hard for what I want is not a challenge.
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’ve always dabbled in many artistic mediums, but for the last 8 years I have focused predominantly on pottery. I like to keep things fresh and entertain new ideas as they come, so my work is constantly evolving. I really enjoy making functional work like mugs and cups, but every now and then I’ll dive in to the more sculptural genre including home decor and wall hangings. I also lean into the seasons, so expect to see the imagery and color palette in my work change, too! I find that my work is constantly becoming more and more detailed and intricate every time I make a new batch. I love that clay is such a versatile medium and there is always something new to try to incorporate into my style. Currently I am making work and selling online through my website and galleries, and a few pop-up shows here and there. Expect to see new products from me every few months!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I believe it starts with a passion for art. You have to be willing to dedicate your time to your work each day if you want to be a full time artist. I’ve found that’s much easier to accomplish when you genuinely love it, and I do! Next, I’d say a good support system is key. My husband, family and friends are all such an encouragement to me and making my business thrive. The third thing circles back to be work ethic. As an artist, I believe the difference in doing it for fun/hobby is the amount of time and energy you’re willing to put into it. When it becomes a business it can take the joy out of it for some, but I think being organized and realistic with your time goes a long way in your productivity.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
When I first got started, I did a lot of custom work trying to get my name out there. I really enjoyed the challenge of working with the customer to create something new and unique and it really taught me a lot about myself as an artist and my versatility. I sometimes wonder why I can’t just pick one style and body of work and stay with it, but I know now that it’s not a one size fits all medium and it works for me! Now that I’ve had children and had to cut back on the sheer volume of pots I usually crank out, I think opening up customs again would be fun! I’ve worked really hard to level-up my style and craftsmanship and believe that doing custom work like tile backsplashes, for example, with unique individual tiles and colors or creating custom vases or dinnerware for events would be really fun. I always love a challenge and look forward to what that avenue might bring!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sarahbethpottery.com
- Instagram: @sarahbethpottery
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