Meet Sasha Smardak

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

Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Sasha with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?

I most definitely inherited my work ethic from my dad. He is the hardest working person I have ever encountered. Growing up, he always told me that working hard and doing what you love is the key to success. His words of affirmation and support have always encouraged me to thrive and flourish in everything that I put my mind to.

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’m a crochet sculpture artist, and my work focuses on creating large scale representational works that explore the perception of craft in the art world. My pieces often incorporate crochet, a traditionally domestic and intimate skill, to create dynamic, sculptural forms that challenge ideas about what “craft” can be. Utilizing sustainable materials and incorporating other elements, I aim to bring my viewers attention to the physicality and labor of the work. For me one of the most exciting parts is reimagining crochet as a bold, powerful medium, capable of holding its own in a gallery space alongside other forms of fine art. What I find most special about my work is how these sculptures encourage the audience to rethink the value and significance of craft. I want to bridge the gap between craft and high art, inviting people see crochet and other “crafts” in a new elevated light. Ultimately, i hope my art speaks to the resilience of craft based traditions and the endless creative potential they hold.

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?

I think three skills that have helped me to become better as a human and an artist are persistence, consistency, and humility. It is so crucial to keep yourself humble and remember that no one is above you and you are not above anyone else. Treating everyone with the kindness and equality, in which you wish to be treated, is so important. I believe that being persistent and consistent in what you are passionate about is the key to your own personal success. You will never grow if you give up and don’t push through your hard times – even if they challenge you or are out of your comfort zone.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I just take a step back. I know this is easier said than done – especially if you have a lot going on. You will not get anything accomplished if you are frustrated or submerged in your work. It is always better to back away for a bit and come back with a clear head and fresh mind. This also gives you time to reflect of what might have gone wrong and maybe even think of new approaches. In the back of my mind I always remember that any progress is still progress and better than nothing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sashasmardak.com/
• Instagram: @supercooolgrandpa

Image Credits

headshot and “WORKER” – Lia Manfredi