We recently had the chance to connect with Summer Oliver and have shared our conversation below.
Summer, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think one big thing that’s misunderstood by some folks is that my business is a hobby since Im not able to run it full time. While it doesnt pay the bills right now, I still take it very seriously and hope to have it pay bills in the future. Taking steps to live simply and decrease household bills so that the business CAN pay bills is one step Im taking to help the process along.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Yes! My business is called Raventree Studio, where I primarily work with resin and wood, sometimes incorporating other natural materials. Creativity and collaboration are at the heart of my work — I really enjoy custom projects, sharing techniques with other artists, and fostering a supportive community. While much of my work is inspired by the ocean and seascapes, I pride myself on being adaptable to a client’s vision and bringing any idea to life, no matter the design.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think selfishness and fear are what break bonds between people. Consistently putting your own interests above others can prevent the kind of collaborative, supportive community I value. For example, if I were to gatekeep my techniques instead of sharing what I’ve learned, that would be acting out of fear or selfishness. On the other hand, openness, generosity, and trust are what strengthen bonds — teaching, supporting, and being vulnerable with others helps build lasting connections.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Many, many times. When bills come due and the money isn’t there, when work isn’t selling, when I hear the negative voice in my head telling me to quit…yes.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
One important truth that very few people (on the internet at least) agree with me on is that there is one Lord, and one way to the Lord, through Jesus. This foundational faith is the purpose behind my creativity in the first place. I create because I was made in the image of the Lord that I believe in, who is a Creator. So by creating, I feel closest to Him.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What pain do you resist facing directly?
Oof, I’d say the pain I resist most is boredom. With ADHD, I tend to diversify my work a lot — from graphic design and digital drawing to resin and wood art. Some weeks I’m juggling five different types of projects with a pretty extensive to-do list. Lately, though, I’ve been trying to sit with the discomfort of boredom — when everything is caught up, the studio is clean, laundry is done, and dinner is made. I’m learning that sitting with that stillness can actually help me recharge and be more creative.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theraventreestudio.net
- Instagram: @_raventree_
- Facebook: RaventreeStudio
Image Credits
Summer Oliver
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
