We recently connected with Alex Meltzer and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Alex thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you take us back in time to the first dollar you earned as a creative – how did it happen? What’s the story?

Growing up my summers were filled with adventure and creativity. Each year, the lush landscape of upstate New York became my playground, where the days were filled with swimming, crafting, and exploration. My mom was always thinking of ways to entertain us and it usually had to do with creating something

We discovered a bead store in Woodstock and picked out a whole bunch of beads. It became the summer of making jewelry. We spent countless hours crafting beaded bracelets, necklaces, anklets.

Fueled by the thrill of my newfound passion I wanted to share my creations with the world. My sister and I set up a table table in front of the bustling Bread Alone, eager to share our goodies with anyone who would look. We sold a ton of stuff! Thrived. I was about 7 years old.

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.

As a ceramic artist specializing in sculptural functional mementos, my creative journey has been woven with diverse mediums and passions. Throughout my childhood I was always in a dance class, singing in a choir, creating visual for art or putting on some type of production. I went to a performing arts high school for their drama program and thought I would be an actress. I fell out of love with that dream and landed a corporate advertising sales job after of college, excited by the prospect to make money and have a “grown up” job. I realized fairly quickly that I was missing a passion and excitement for my work. In my free time I pursued craft projects and art classes, discovering ceramics in 2017. There was no turning back, the stars aligning for me to find this medium which was challenging and satisfying.

Ceramics marries my passion for design and interiors with the practicality of utilitarian objects and the magic of creating something special. I am an incredibly sentimental person. I love that I get to make work that symbolizes a moment or a relationship or a ritual in someones life. Most of my vessels are one of a kind, allowing each piece to have its own quirks, uniqueness and personality. What sets a Meltz pot apart is the minimal yet organic quality of the forms and the surfaces. I am very detail oriented when it comes to construction of a pot but also embrace wabi-sabi and imperfections in the final outcome. All functional pieces of art.

Amidst the joy of creation, I remain grounded, acknowledging that while my art may not save lives, it enriches them in meaningful ways. Whether adorning a mantelpiece or gracing a dinner table, my pots become cherished companions in life’s most intimate moments. Being a part of that through my art is what keeps me excited to continue to create.

Beyond the confines of my studio, Meltz extends its reach, offering interior styling, decorating, and design services that blend my passion for antiquing and knowledge of the design industry with a keen eye for detail. And for those seeking a taste of the tactile joy of working with clay, our workshops provide a gateway to creative freedom, allowing participants to get a little messy without commitment or judgement.

For me, authenticity lies not in specialization, but in the pursuit of passions that resonate with my soul. In a world that often demands conformity, I proudly wear the title of the multi-hyphenate, pursuing my interests and embracing my strengths as a creator, teacher, dreamer and do-er.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Buy art directly from artists rather than from platforms like Amazon or stores like H&M, Zara and Target which often times are copying orginial artwork and mass producing them offering no credit to the designer. There are so many reasons to support artists with your patronage.

When you buy art from an artist, you’re directly supporting their creative endeavors. Your purchase contributes to their livelihood, enabling them to continue making art and fueling their passion. Art from independent artists often carries a unique and personal touch that mass-produced items lack. Each piece tells a story and bears the imprint of the artist’s individual style, experiences, and emotions, making it a truly authentic addition to your collection. Purchasing directly from artists allows for a personal connection that transcends a mere transaction. You can engage with the artist, learn about their inspirations and techniques, and even commission custom pieces tailored to your preferences. Artisanal craftsmanship and attention to detail are often hallmarks of artwork created by independent artists. By buying from them, you’re investing in quality craftsmanship and materials, ensuring that you receive a piece of enduring value and beauty.
Finally, Supporting independent artists contributes to the vibrancy and diversity of the artistic community. It helps sustain a culture where creativity thrives, fostering innovation, diversity, and cultural richness.

While platforms like Amazon offer convenience and a wide array of products, purchasing art directly from artists allows you to make a meaningful impact while acquiring a piece that resonates with your soul and enriches your life in ways that mass-produced items cannot. Make meaningful and thoughtful purchases that reduce your environmental waste! If a piece is more money than you can spend, reach out to the artist about a payment plan or a barter! There are creative solutions to acquire meaningful objects.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

While there are so many incredible benefits to being a working artist it is not without its immense challenges.

I have never been so happy and free in my heart while simultaneously stressed and scared for my financial stability and security. There is a huge amount of financial instability that comes from being an artist with irregular and seasonal income streams as well as shifts in consumer spending and interest.

I am not just an artist, but an accountant, a social media marketer, website builder, networker, experimenter, packer, schlepper, etc. The demands of creating artwork, managing administrative tasks, and promoting my work can consume significant time and energy which feel like.dwindling resources. Success as an artist often hinges on effective self-promotion and marketing. This is a fulltime job in an of itself, building a brand, maintaining an online presence, and networking with potential buyers which all require significant time and effort. There never seems to be enough hours in the day to accomplish everything that needs to happen.

I have never worked so hard in my life! While it’s not all sunshine and daisies, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. The freedom to wake-up and spend my days making art, facilitating beautiful spaces and unlocking creativity in myself and others makes it all worthwhile.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.meltz.studio/
• Instagram: @meltz.studio
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-meltzer-13128147/
• Other: Local Creatives video feature: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nLFeDxfZik&list=LL&index=1

Image Credits
Product images by Frank Theodore