Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Danielle Baum. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Danielle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

Actually, I never thought this would be something I would get to do professionally and, honestly, I was okay with that. I have always loved to create and am flattered that other people are into the pieces I let the world see. I love color and form; how shadow and light work together. I think I was indoctrinated into this by my grandfather while in the high chair. While my parents were at work I would stay with my grandma and grandpa. Everything Thursday, while my grandma was at her hair appointment, my grandpa would put me in the high chair and we’d sculpt with play-doh or water color or draw. Though I don’t think I actually remember those times in the chair (only via photos and stories) I remember the years that followed after where our love of art continued to flourish. I feel that creativity through physical art was an outlet for me, as it is for so many. This was particularly important for me times of grief. Being able to siphon the pain of loss, give it a voice, is what has propelled me forward in life at so many times when I’ve wanted to stay stuck. This isn’t to say that inspiration cannot come from joy, delight…mirth. That is why Myrth Creative Co. has it’s name. Creating is the thing that has brought back joy many times in my life and rooted me here. I have always loved to sculpt, draw, and paint. I have found solace in black and white manual photography and darkroom processing. Ceramic sculpture and functional pottery continue to be a grounding element in my practice. However, currently fabric dyeing has been what brings me gratification. The exploration of color makes me so incredibly happy and I hope it makes others happy as well.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Myrth Creative Co. is a small business based out of Kansas City, Missouri (Blue Springs, MO truly). Currently, I am focused on fabric dyeing and ceramic work. Last June, I decided not to renew my contract in public education to focus on creating a maker space and get back to parts of me that make me, me. My husband and I started the project of constructing a backyard studio for me to be able to dream chase. Though this studio is still a work in progress it allowed me an area to store my art supplies in a meaningful way and get to work. We are in the process of installing the electrical for my kiln currently (so no ceramics at this time) and I am focused on fabric dyeing currently. I spent late fall and winter creating pieces I was proud of for others and this spring I was given the opportunity to show/sell my work consistently at The Farmer’s Market of Blue Springs. If you are local we’d love to see you Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If you are not local, follow me on Instagram at myrthcreativeco I am happy to create customs or ship any pieces you love.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I think the most rewarding part of being an artist is FINALLY seeing your finished piece and recognizing your resilience. There is really something to be said for “the struggle” in creating a piece or project, no matter what medium or form of creation you engage in. For me, there are SO many times in the process that I will look at a drawing or painting or sculpture and think “how will this ever be fixed/right”. You just have to keep going. Each creation is a lesson in perseverance. In a past life, I was a trainer for Sephora. Every time you begin a smokey eye… it looks awful. There’s just no way around it. BUT, it can smell your fear, you just have to keep going, keep blending, keep smoothing and it will come together. Every project or act of creation is the same way. If you push yourself, push the piece, it comes together into something amazing. Doubt is part of the process, but celebration of how far you’ve come is the ultimate reward.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Buying from local artists (or online) and supporting small businesses is the BEST way to support artists.

Environment is where we all thrive. If you have a community of supportive people in your life, you will flourish as a creative. I believe social media can certainly help with that by connecting creatives together in their own cities or across oceans. Be curious, ask questions, and if you feel empowered GIVE ANSWERS to your fellow creatives. And of course, Like, Comment, Subscribe, Share. Many want to appreciate art but may not be in a position to support financially. Gaining exposure for the artists you love is incredibly helpful.

Additionally, on a larger scale, funding for public education for the arts is critical to simulate and inspire young creative minds. We need teachers and guides to spur on the next generation of artists and those programs need funding. Being aware of what’s on the ballot and writing your local reps is also a great way to support artists.

Contact Info:

• Website: Coming soon
• Instagram: Myrthcreativeco