We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Morgan Janssen . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Morgan below.

Morgan , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you tell us a story about a time you failed?

In this experience I don’t like use the term ‘failure’ so much as an unexpected turn in my career. I’ve been dedicated to teaching in higher education since the age of 26, relishing every moment and overcoming various challenges. As an adjunct teacher, my goal was to secure a full-time position once I had accumulated enough experience. However, despite my efforts and patience, landing a full-time role proved to be more challenging than anticipated.

Years passed, and I found myself leaving an abusive relationship, upon which I had to move back in with my parents. During this time I was facing a bleak financial outlook and no promising full-time positions on the horizon, I felt defeated. This period coincided with a pivotal moment in my life, forcing me to reevaluate my goals.

During this challenging time, my brother casually suggested exploring a different career path—becoming an automotive sculptor. While the idea initially frightened me, considering a move away from Florida, I spent weeks thinking of the opportunity. Despite being trained as a fine artist rather than a designer, I decided to take on this challenge.

I applied to a certificate program in automotive sculpting in Michigan. To my surprise, I was accepted, even with my unconventional background. Despite the absence of a job, I took the risk, relocating once the program commenced.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I received my MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art in Sculpture and my BFA in Fine Arts with a major in sculpture from Ringing College of Art and Design. Common themes in my work deal with representations of nature using artificial materials and working with the nuance of packaged paradises. I’ve exhibited work in Miami Basel, St Pete Museum of Fine Art, Mercedes Benz Financial Services, with group shows throughout the United States.

I primarily work with resins and mold making methods when I create a sculpture. Since my relocation to Michigan in persuit of a new career change, my studio practice has had to remain on hold until I get back on my feet. Ive promised myself I will continue my work as a visual artist and have been recording and sketching my ideas so I can still remain excited about making in the future.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

As stated earlier, Im pursuing a certificate in automotive sculpting at the College for Creative Studies. The program is tailored for individuals seeking a creative career within the automotive industry. Although I have a background in fine art, this venture has introduced me to a distinct approach to sculpting, emphasizing clean surfaces instead of expressive and organic forms I have used in my personal work.
This learning experience has strengthened my tactile awareness and dexterity. One example is relying more on the sense of touch instead of sight, refining our ability to detect imperfections using our less coordinated hand. I’ve acquired a diverse set of techniques, particularly in measurements and the transfer of nearly identical sculpts from one side of the clay model to the other.

My goal is to leverage the skills I’ve accumulated and secure a full-time position in automotive sculpting. Over the years, I have had to remind myself to recognize the importance of breaking down my objectives into manageable steps. Once achieving this milestone, my plan is to relocate my studio and materials to Michigan, allowing me to continue developing my personal body of work during my free time. This dual focus on professional advancement and personal artistic expression embodies my vision for the next phase of my career.

Contact Info:

• Website: morganjanssen.com
• Instagram: @momojanssen
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-janssen/

Image Credits
Photo of torch and metal by Wyatt Kostygan