We recently had the privilege of interviewing Shelly Okun, CEO at ShellyClayspot. Shelly is passionate about crafting designs with clay and firmly believes that clay connects her with inner peace and brings satisfaction to life. Inspired by another ceramic artist in 2015, Shelly opened her own Etsy shop where she started selling her creations overseas.
In this insightful interview, Shelly provides a glimpse of her journey in this field so far and how she plans to move forward with the same.
The Advent Of Shelly’s Career
We started the session by asking, “Can you tell us about your professional journey and how you got started in your industry?”
Shelly shared, “Since 2012 I have been part of a ceramic artists group that was initializing group exhibitions and had workshops to grow our knowledge and skills in the clay field. One of the artists showed us her project in the academy and was talking about having an Etsy shop. I was excited about this possibility and started my shop.
Along the way, I also enjoyed making unique dinnerware and home décor pieces. Playing with clay allows me to connect with the earth and myself as well. I like experimenting with different techniques and occasionally creating new designs. Inspired by Mother Nature, I aim to bring nature inside, using materials that are sourced from nature and presenting designs that represent it.”
Trends In The Field Of Ceramics
We were eager to learn more about the emerging trends in Shelly Okun’s field. So, we asked, “What trends or innovations are you most excited about in your industry?”
She responded, “Talking about trends in my field, I’m very excited to work with slabs, rolling the clay and folding it to shape a variety of forms. This is a hand-building technique, using the slab roller table I get large soft slabs. I then cut and shape these slabs using templates to produce a variety of innovative forms, exploring the latest trends in ceramics.”
Adaptability Amidst Challenges
Challenges are a part of every field. To learn how Shelly Okun overcame these phases, we asked, “What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?”
Shelly replied, “My first challenge was to build my signature bodywork. Working with clay is sensual, fun, relaxing and there are infinite possibilities for creating. The malleable treat is allowed to have any shape and form, skills are necessary. Establishing a recognizable piece takes focus on what you’d like to convey.
The effort of getting out to the world in different ways like social media consistently is in high demand. I’d rather be in the studio than sit in front of the computer. But considering social media presence, I’ve learned to balance my creative time with online demands, finding efficient ways to manage my virtual presence in a way that suits my schedule.”
Resources That Made A Difference
We further asked, “Can you share a book, podcast, or resource that has significantly influenced your professional journey?”
“Participating in workshops helps me to evolve and learn new things. I’ve had the opportunity to attend both in-person and online workshops, including those offered by The Ceramic School. One workshop that particularly inspired me was led by Sarah Pike, focusing on creating large vessels. So, I started making my own bare clay yellow sand vessels, which turned out to be a great addition to other home décor pieces that I was already making.” Shelly shared.
Triumphs Of Shelly’s Professional Journey
We were curious to learn more about the achievements of Shelly’s career. So, we asked, “What do you consider to be the most significant achievement in your career so far?”
She said, “One of my 3-D ceramic wall art was chosen by an art consultancy serving interior design companies. This opportunity was a milestone for me, as I was commissioned to create a large number of pieces for their client, as most of my customers are private ones and they typically look for gifts.”
Message For Beginners
Addressing the beginners, we asked, “What advice would you give to someone looking to enter your field?”
“For me, it’s foremost to enjoy the process of making and creativity and to stay playful and look for new shapes and colors. It is important to keep in mind that in business, persistence, and dedication are the key elements that make a difference.” She added.
Embracing Technological Advancements
Technology has been redefining the way businesses work. To gather Shelly Okun’s perspective on this aspect, we asked, “How do you see AI and technology impacting your industry shortly?”
“Shortly, I anticipate AI will have a significant impact on my industry, particularly in marketing – writing high-quality copy addressing my niche. It will make it easier for me to reach my target audience. Additionally, AI will enhance my online shop’s functionality by optimizing product tags, titles, and descriptions, improving overall efficiency and customer experience.” Shelly replied.
Plans We Asked Shelly Okun
We ended the interview by asking, “What are your future goals for your business?”
Shelly concluded, “I’m currently working on a new website addressing the local market. I aspire to expand my work and have more people around the world inspired when using my tableware and artwork.”
Follow Shelly Okun on LinkedIn or visit https://www.etsy.com/shop/shellyclayspot/?etsrc=sdt
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