Our makers never fail to motivate us, encourage our creativity, and fill us with inspiration. So, when a new design enters our assortment, we’re always excited to learn more about the person behind the product.
What gets an artist going and keeps them creating is certainly worth sharing, and every great connection starts with a simple introduction. Meet Liz Rodriguez, the maker behind our new handmade floral kitchen trio.
When did you know you wanted to be an artist?
Since I can remember.
What was the most exciting thing about becoming a professional artist?
Being immersed in a world of creativity where just about anything is possible. Not many professional artists have the word “can’t” in their vocabulary. We all figure out how to make things happen whether it be within the work itself or building a death-defying display system.
What does your typical day in the studio look like?
I usually arrive at 8 am, turn on the teakettle, clean the studio and finish projects from the night before, take Nacho (my sweet and adorable Pit Bull mix) out for a good walk or play date, come back and take a look at the to-do list which could range from making work, packing and shipping to a gallery or customer, mixing glazes, administrative duties or tending to customer needs. I’m usually loading Nacho back in the car for our commute home between 6:30 and 7 pm, sometimes later depending on the deadline.
Is there a trinket, talisman, or other inspirational object you keep near? If so, what is it and what does it mean to you?
I’m not terribly religious, but my dearest friend Cathy (a mixed media assemblage artist) colorfully painted this small BVM bust for me shortly after my mom died last year and I keep it by my pottery wheel. It brings me a little comfort when I get too caught up in sad thoughts. Cathy is a colorful and very funny person herself, so it also makes me think of her which inevitably leads to a smile.
Imagine you just showed your work to a kindergartener for the first time. What do you think he/she would say?
I meet young children at shows and have many kids in that age group in my family. They are always first drawn to the bright colors, then they remark on the roses and how much they like them, and finally there’s an atypical silence that washes over as they feel all the textures. I love watching kids experience the work, which frightens a lot of parents because of the fragility of pottery, but I welcome and encourage it. It makes me so happy.
What quote or mantra keeps you motivated?
“Sometimes the only available transportation is a leap of faith.” – Margaret Shepard
2 Comments
What a great quote to end the post! I also loved reading about Liz’s friend Cathy who made her an art piece in memory of her mother. So touching and endearing to see other artists looking out for one another.
Liz – I’m so glad you get comfort from my hand painted Blessed Virgin Mary! Thanks for being such a fun creative friend! Your work is beautiful and I look forward to seeing you again soon! Congrats on having your work in UnCommonGoods!