We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Corinne Fry-Rich a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Corinne , thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Being a young creative person can be both a blessing and a curse. While some may excel in math and history classes, others struggle to focus on anything outside of their artistic endeavors. This was the case for me as a young person who found my true passion in painting, repurposing clothing, mixing and making my own makeup and paint colors, and dreaming up new creative projects. Every dollar of my allowance was spent on art supplies or fabric. Though it was difficult to focus on subjects that didn’t come naturally to me, I found fulfillment in artistic expression that made it all worth it.

Corinne , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Starting out as a makeup artist at only 17 years old was an exciting time for me. I loved the creativity involved with transforming someone’s appearance with just a few brushstrokes. However, I found my passion in costume design and decided to pursue that instead. In 2000 , I started my own handbag line, which was successful until the recession hit in 2008. I had to make a difficult decision to close my handbag company, but it led to a new career path. I went to work for my dad as a ceramic engineer, where I honed my skills in developing color palettes and making ceramic glazes for tile companies, dinnerware brands and historical projects around the country . I also own my own company Chantry 1975, which is my happy place, where we specialize in candles, artisan made gifts, and private label candles for many brands around the country. One of my proudest moments has been working with a brand to develop their perfect candle, then seeing it in a top magazine as a fan favorite product. It’s always a joy to hear clients tell me that the candles I’ve made for them are a best-seller.

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

One way to achieve this is by supporting young artists through educational programs and to let them know it’s ok to take a different path to achieve their goal as long as they keep putting in the work. These programs can include mentorships, workshops, art schools and cultural programs. Supporting these programs can have a positive impact on the art industry as well. Art often gets overlooked in this country and is sometimes under appreciated. When budget cuts happen in schools, art and music are often the first to go which is heartbreaking. Supporting young artists and investing in their artistic education as well as giving them a place to showcase their creativity can help them realize their potential and achieve their goals. Young people need to know that being a creative is valued and there’s an entire community out their for them .

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

Finding and building a chosen family of creative individuals is a wonderful experience. It allows for collaboration and exploration of new ideas and perspectives. Working on a projects that ignite a passion within oneself can bring a sense of joy and fulfillment that is unparalleled. There is something magical about creating something from scratch and watching it come to fruition. Being recognized for one’s hard work and creativity is a feeling that cannot be described. It is important to surround yourself with others who share the same drive and enthusiasm.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.chantry1975.com
• Instagram: https://instgram.com/chantry1975
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chantry1975
• Yelp: https://yelp.com/chantry1975