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

Alright, Sirena thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I first learned of polymer clay jewelry via social media. Scrolling on YouTube during quartine one morning I watch a video of the clay-making process. An hour later I was in Micheals craft store buying my first pack of clay and other necessities to make clay jewelry.

Being self-taught has given me the ability to dream of techniques that are out of the ordinary and to not be afraid to try new things. The skills that I think are the most essential are patients and knowing when to rest which are necessary for life and business. It has taken me 2 years of practicing, failing, and some shortcomings to succeed with balance. I am a firm believer that things happen on their own time so patients is a valuable attribute to have. Rest is necessary for everyone, we’re human and we all need a break when necessary.

Learning via Youtube/self-practicing can be difficult, there is no teacher to consult with or provide a sense of direction. A lot of clay had ended as “waste” but the fails that happen when being self-taught are just as significant and rewarding as the wins.

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

I am Sirena Smith, a wife, mother, owner, and maker. As a stay-at-home mom, I use clay to stay grounded, an outlet of expression that resets my mind. While my many roles provide great purpose creating fulfills me in a way nothing else has been able to. I have been a creative for as long as I could remember, as a little girl I made beaded jewelry, and my love for warble art has been lifelong. Quarantining from COVID provided an opportunity to pursue art as a business and not just a hobby.

Before crafting my jewelry I would wear costume jewelry that caused major skin irritation, was heavy, and did not last long. Polymer clay is a versatile medium that is lightweight and long lasting. Because of this I and my customers can wear small pieces of art that are hypoallergenic lightweight and one-of-a-kind.

I am most proud of my resilience and the elevation in my work and my business overall. The growth that I have undergone is overwhelmingly incredible. My designs, brand, professionalism, and attitude have evolved due to my business.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I’ve noticed that there is a lack of support for creatives, especially POC artists. The best support that can be given to us is social media support, in my opinion. Likes, comments, follows, and any online support can impact a maker greatly and it is free to do. This online support helps to push our work to the eyes of a potential customer, a chance to connect with other makers, and even a chance to be featured on larger platforms.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

I have heard many comments from non-creatives on growth that I would like to address. So the dream for most would be huge distribution in a major store chain. But doing this takes away from the handmade nature of my product. I need non-creatives to understand that there is a large community of artists that create to stay mentally grounded. While my goal is always for my business to grow, handmade, quality, special pieces will remain the center because I create as a form of therapy.

Contact Info:

• Website: Luckylunaclay.com
• Instagram: @luckulunaclay

Image Credits
Lucky Luna Clay/Sirena S.