We recently connected with Danny Kopsak and have shared our conversation below.

Danny, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

It’s important to understand that you may not love every design you create. This may sound strange, but it highlights the distinction between designing for yourself and designing for others, which is crucial for any professional designer to recognize. It’s not about having personal affection for every piece you produce; rather, it’s about appreciating the purpose behind your work: connection, functionality, and impact.

Danny, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I take great pride in having dedicated my entire career to the creative field, surrounded by talented artists who have continually inspired me. Over the years, I have created and successfully sold my artwork through local shops, art shows, and various retailers. However, I found the standard 50% markup and additional fees to be quite frustrating.

During the COVID pandemic, I recognized an opportunity to create a one-stop online shop for artists on Vashon Island. This platform empowers them to sell their work online and to a broader audience while retaining 70% of the sale, allowing them to focus on their craft. I am excited to provide this valuable resource, enabling artists to promote and sell their creations with confidence.

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

It’s perhaps a simple observation, yet the importance of tapping into that unique part of our brains cannot be overstated. The ability to create and innovate is something that fuels my passion and drives my daily life. The thought of working in a different field feels unimaginable to me. Art and design have become my language, allowing me to express my thoughts and feelings through color, images, and materials rather than relying solely on words.

This creative process is not just a personal outlet; it’s a vital part of who I am. Each project offers me the opportunity to explore new ideas, challenge my skills, and push the boundaries of my imagination. It’s a journey that’s rich with discovery and evolution, where every brushstroke and every choice of material tells a story.

Moreover, one of the greatest rewards of being in this creative sphere is the community I am fortunate to be a part of. Surrounding myself with other passionate and imaginative individuals enriches my experience immeasurably. We learn from one another, share insights, collaborate on projects, and inspire each other to think beyond conventional limits. This collective creativity not only enhances my own work but also fosters a sense of belonging and motivation.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Relocating from the East Coast to the West Coast marked a significant turning point in my journey as an artist. The vibrant energy and diverse culture of the West Coast ignited a flame of creativity within me that I hadn’t fully tapped into before. Initially, the move felt overwhelming, as if I were stepping into a completely blank canvas, one that required me to rediscover and redefine my artistic identity.

A year or two after settling into this new chapter, I found an incredible opportunity to work for a start-up. This experience was transformative, providing me with invaluable skills and insights that I had never encountered before. I learned about website creation and digital branding, which empowered me to bring my vision to life. This culminated in the launch of my own website, Handmade On Vashon, a platform where I can showcase the unique creations of our island artists with a broader audience.

The process of building my website allowed me to connect with many artists on the island and learn a little bit more about their craft. Each step, from designing the layout to crafting the content, fueled my passion and deepened my commitment to my craft. The West Coast, with its natural beauty and innovative spirit, continues to inspire my work, pushing me to explore new avenues and challenges as I evolve as an artist. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next and how my experiences will continue to shape my art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://handmadeonvashon.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handmadeonvashon/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078951691246

Image Credits

Brian Fisher / Annette Messitt / Michael Darr / Danny Kopsak / Michael Elenko / Brooke Gassiot / Jen Huntley / Michelle Friars