We were lucky to catch up with Alia Isackson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I’ve learned to do these creative services from years of studying visual arts. I spent most of my childhood always drawing and incorporating art into my life somehow. In first grade, I started the twigs art program at Baltimore school for the Arts until 8th grade. Then I attended Baltimore School for the Arts for four years in the Visual arts concentration. Now I’m a Jewelry and Metalsmithing major at Towson University. I now have a job in florist design using all of my foundational art knowledge.

I don’t think I could’ve done anything differently to speed up my learning process. I’ve always been an art kid, and these creatives services were inevitably going to show up in my life.
The skills I learned so far that were most essential during my educational journey, involved 2D & 3D design as well as sculpture and mixed media. 2D & 3D design taught me all of the useful design principles that have helped me tremendously in the florist industry. Sculpture and Mixed Media class at BSA taught by Kirsten Rook, made me discover that I truly have a passion for doing hands-on art and using a variety of materials to sculpt. My three years of drawing taught by Archie Veale, showed me the importance of composition, balance and contrast.

The obstacles that stood in my way of learning more was the academics. I’ve always struggled with math and particularly things I have no interest in. I’ve always had to work twice as hard to succeed in school because of the time outside of school I spent studying those challenging academics.

Alia, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Alongside visual art, I love to sing and make music. My artist name for my music is Strawberry Fern, which was an alter ego creative identity I pursued in high school.

I got into the florist industry because I’ve always had an interest in color aesthetics and plants. I wanted to find a way to make money doing something that brings me joy. I got into Jewelry & Metalsmithing because I wanted to pursue a new art practice that I was unfamiliar with. I knew I loved style and wearing all sorts of jewelry, while also enjoying working hands-on.

For clients at the floral shop, I help with creating arrangements that fit what they are looking for! Arrangements vary from the holiday, event or emotion. I’m still very new to the field so I have a lot of experience to gain still.

I’m most proud of all the fun I’ve had during this educational journey! That’s what learning should feel like, challenging but also fun.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

I wish that I knew about the Baltimore Jewelry Center when I was in high school! I discovered them right after I graduated in 2021, and they helped me discover that I really loved metal smithing!They offer so many jewelry classes and have very passionate teachers.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

My side hustle in high-school was selling handmade found object jewelry out of a tackle box between classes in the hallways.

I had no idea I’d be majoring in Jewelry & Design for my college years! I‘m a full believer of continuing to do what makes you happy even if you feel that your aren’t an expert.

Even though I’m still learning everything about jewelry, I’ve made a lot of progress.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: _strawberry_fern
• Youtube: Strawberry Fern

Image Credits
Personal photo was photographed by Logan Schooley