We were lucky to catch up with Molly Stricker recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Molly thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I have certainly grown into an understanding of my professional path over my life this far. I was very fortunate to have access to artistic and creative activities of all kinds from a very young age, instilling in me not only an appreciation for the arts but also a deep reverence for those who were lucky enough to bear the title “Artist”. I’m not sure if I ever thought seriously about my career path until I was in high school, when choir and theatre took precedent over all else. There is definitely an expectation of going “all in” within the theatre industry, but I wanted to go all in, too. And as soon as my brother and peers started to judge my commitment, I had to prove them wrong. For many years, through college and my first jobs as a graduate, I pursued a career in theatre arts. I knew there was some kind of magic in making things, especially when that involves collaboration and community – and the place I had felt that most in my life was on or back stage. Over recent years, I have come to realize more fully that art demands us to be far more interdisciplinary in our work, and I’ve shifted my work from theatre to visual arts and writing. I’m enjoying exploring new ways of making.
I don’t think I ever thought seriously about doing anything else with my life. But I think that’s actually because I just can’t imagine how I could do anything else.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My partner, Tabitha Camp, and I started Studio TM after moving to Nashville, TN, earlier this year. We collaborate on much of our work across mediums including analog photography, painting, printmaking, and textile arts. In addition to other solo projects, we design and create art, clothing, and home goods in our home studio, all for sale in our Etsy shop. Both Tabitha and I also freelance in the theatre and film industries. We often work as a pair in art direction and producing.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
The biggest lesson I learned through my college years was in the art of letting go. I have always been extremely organized and regimented, and I have always loved control. In the creative process, I have found that control is often working in opposition to me, fighting me to plan and worry before I start making. I had to very intentionally unlearn my reliance on expectations and plans to get me through. Creating things is messy, and failure (however you define it) is inevitable – and encouraged!
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I think many communities have working networks in place for patrons to support arts and artists of all kinds in their work. I have found that the trouble lies in bridging the societal gaps in place between “creatives” and “non-creatives”. Biases, awareness, and discomfort are roadblocks in connecting society with artists.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @alwaysmollymoo
- Twitter: @alwaysmollymoo