The Creative Spotlight Series is here to share & inspire through learning the actual experiences of individuals who chose a creative path.

I met Laura Wood during our time at Penland School of Craft. She was a Resident Artist while Nate and I were there during his Residency. Laura and Laura’s work- ah, where to begin! She is a force, of positivity and energy- with a very deliberate artistic vision. Positivity, not in a naive way, rather it facilitates movement through energy that isn’t serving you. Laura and I really bonded during Covid, in the middle of nowhere, with a very specific, somewhat idealic, yet isolating space. We began collaborating via photography of her and Nate’s work. We were playful, and encouraged each other to get out of our comfort zones. She means business as much as she is a true artist. Her jewelry is wearable art, the pieces are stunning sculptures on their own, and each time I wear them, without fail, there is a constant stream of awe and compliments. Laura and I spearheaded a show during the Residency, for the Resident Artists, and later on we collaborated on a Gift Guide. We just get each other, we see the vision, we make it happen. Upon opening her own studio and store front in Asheville, NC, Laura commissioned Nate to make a line of Everyday Barware in custom colorways. Laura is also responsible for the birth of Olra Creative- she encouraged me so much to share my skills in professional practices with my creative community, for that I will always be grateful. We have a constant and collaborative relationship that is truly unique. 

I spoke with Laura, asking questions I feel highlight her successful space in the Art World.

-You are many things, including, Artist, Partner, Teacher, Mother, Business Owner etc. What were some of the key decisions, challenges & or sacrifices you had to make to get to where you  are today? 

Laura-I am an optimist and a risk taker. I try to check in with myself regularly to analyze where I’m at and where I want to be. It is not always easy to pause for self analysis but I try to make a habit of doing so in an effort to grow and create space for the new in all areas of my life. My number one takeaway is that I benefit from embracing flexibility in all of my various roles. Embracing change even when it is scary and intimidating is recurring and necessary. The challenge in all of this is getting through the inevitable dips that are a part of being an artist. 

-We met in Penland, and participated in the Resident Artist Program. Can you share pros and cons from your experience?

Laura-Aspects of the experience that you didn't anticipate, good and bad! It took me about 6 months to shake off the unhelpful inner voice of self doubt. I know now that the internal struggle I experienced was a result of a growing pain. Implementing change and learning new things (in front of a community of very talented makers) is hard! I applied to the residency with a goal to step away from the daily obligations of a small business. Though my jewelry was receiving recognition and thriving, I was experiencing burn out. I spent my time in the residency reconnecting with my creativity and analyzing my personal approach to making. There were awkward periods but I stayed true to the process and ultimately left the program feeling proud. A steady flow of visitors in my studio during a time when I was at my most vulnerable required me to articulate my process and thoughts. Over time I strengthened my ability to share and engage on a meaningful level. All that I learned about myself then continues to serve me now. 

-You reference this idea of experience,  Laura, your "sculptural forms contributing to a Daily Experience" Can you each elaborate on these?

Laura-Jewelry is a unique form of art in that it travels with you and has the power to facilitate social engagement and boost confidence. The choice to wear a contemporary piece is one of self expression and can often carry a deeper meaning be it emotional or in some cases political. A relationship with this artform is the choice to integrate the love for art into a lifestyle, it is much more than an accessory. 

-Beyond being an incredible maker, and sought after instructor, you are extremely business savvy! What is it about the marketing & sales aspect of running a small business that excites you? Can you speak to the significance of collaboration and community?

Laura-I find great joy in working with others - to know me is to collaborate with me. Working with others allows me to see my work from another perspective. Jewelry is inherently social and so it feels very natural to extend my practice to include the people in my surroundings. My friends and colleagues also happen to be very inspiring and fascinating people and how amazing is it that we can all come together to celebrate one another?!

-Motherhood- How did/does it affect your studio practice? From creating things to creating life- what change, if any, did becoming a mother provide in your approach to your studio practice/ business?

Creating a human has forever changed me and I am still processing the mental and physical shift. In the last year I have gravitated toward very meditative processes in enamel that rely on a slow pace and rhythmic movements. This intensive work allows my mind to wonder and reflect. I have been applying color in gradients and developing shapes with references to duplicates and I’m not sure where it’s going and haven't put words to it just yet… I’m just going to keep making it for as long as it makes sense and then I am sure by then I’ll have organized my thoughts. This is all to say, I am compelled to work and motherhood has only strengthened my motivation to take advantage of the time I have. I try not to worry about not having enough time and to instead get the most out of the time I do have in the studio. If it means making loads of samples and components then that is what I do in order to keep the ball moving and the creative muscle strong. I’d say it's similar in my business. I do what I can to the best of my abilities and that’s enough! I still have to think about income and how my business is providing of course but I’m working hard to stay realistic and grounded. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to younger creatives starting out?

Laura-Embrace the periods of creative and technical struggle. Trying to skip this essential part of growth means missing the chance to learn and evolve. Working through challenges reveals the truest parts of yourself. The answers you need come from your own experience, not from someone else. 

Phot Credit, Celine, Jhawke Photography, Lucy Plato Clark Photography & Artist