We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Leah Cunningham. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Leah below.

Hi Leah, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

My journey into the world of fabrication began at a workshop in Boston back in 2012, where I delved into the art of silversmithing. However, it was during the challenging times of the pandemic that I found myself drawn deeper into the craft, specifically towards Lost Wax Casting. The necessity to make my work more accessible to a broader audience fueled this exploration.

Over the next three years, I encountered countless setbacks and failures. Each day seemed like a battle, but somewhere within me, a relentless determination emerged, perhaps born out of sheer survival. Learning the intricacies of 3D printing alone proved to be a daunting challenge. Initially, I started with a filament printer, crafting molds from ABS material, a far cry from the castable resin I now use. It took experimenting with four different 3D printers before finding the right fit.

Securing a PPP loan during the COVID era provided me with the means to continue my pursuit. I acquired a used kiln and centrifuge, diving into daily alchemical experiments. The journey was rife with trials and tribulations; I was producing some work, but it lacked consistency, leaving me extremely disheartened.

During this trying period, a friend, an army veteran and machinist , became my unwavering source of encouragement. His daily messages urging me to persist echoed with unwavering belief in my abilities. Tragically, he passed away in a motorcycle accident a few years later, but his spirit continues to drive me forward.

Reflecting on my journey to now, I realize there were many shortcuts I could have taken, but true growth lies not in haste but in embracing the path as it unfolds. Patience is indeed a virtue, and good things inevitably take time.

The skills I’ve cultivated through this journey are immeasurable. I’ve discovered a profound capability to shape metal into anything imaginable—a realization that continues to inspire and drive me forward in my craft.

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.

I entered the world of silversmithing as a departure from my previous career in graphic design, driven by a desire for autonomy and creative expression. Growing up in an environment where my voice often went unheard, I felt compelled to forge my own path.

Today, my brand, Grit, reflects this journey from adversity to empowerment. Through our Etsy storefront and dedicated website, we offer a huge collection of sterling silver jewelry, with the option to customize pieces in gold. Our range extends beyond jewelry to include accessories like keychains and apparel.

At Grit, we embrace the unconventional and celebrate authenticity. Our pieces are more than adornments; they are symbols of resilience and self-expression, telling stories of individuality.

What sets us apart is not just our craftsmanship, but the ethos behind each creation—a rebellion against societal norms and expectations. We take pride in our evolution, from humble (sad) beginnings to a brand that resonates with those who dare to challenge the status quo.

For potential clients and admirers, I want them to know that Grit represents more than just jewelry—it’s a statement of courage, authenticity, and the determination to carve out one’s own path.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In my perspective, society, particularly in regions like Southern areas such as Nashville, TN where I reside, must take significant strides to support artists and foster a vibrant creative ecosystem. There’s a glaring gap in providing conducive spaces for artists to create, collaborate, and even reside. Many landlords impose stringent financial requirements, such as exorbitant savings and high credit scores, which artists often struggle to meet. This creates an “us versus them” dynamic that stifles artistic expression and community engagement.

Art isn’t merely a luxury; it’s an integral part of life, a conduit for connecting with and understanding our communities. Artists deserve spaces where they can thrive without undue financial burdens. Moreover, we must address the issue of platform fees imposed by major platforms like Etsy and Airbnb, which significantly erode artists’ hard-earned income. These platforms often take hefty percentages, limiting artists’ ability to contribute meaningfully to society and sustain themselves financially.

The current system sets artists up for failure rather than providing the support they need to thrive. We must implement fail-safes to safeguard the livelihoods of those who have dedicated their lives to art. After all, artists are just as essential to society as doctors; they evoke emotion, challenge perceptions, and shape our collective culture. If you look around, everything you see is infused with art—it’s inescapable, and it’s time we recognize its inherent value and provide the support it deserves.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My journey towards resilience began at a tender age of 17 when I made the bold decision to leave my hometown behind. I knew deep down that staying wasn’t an option if I wanted to pursue my dreams, my “personal legend.” My aspirations were grand—I yearned to become a graphic designer, immerse myself in a bustling cityscape, surrounded by fellow artists, and live by the ocean. The allure of creating tangible things with my own hands, whether through painting, journaling, or other means, fueled my determination.

Yet, my upbringing posed significant challenges. Raised by a single mother grappling with alcoholism and a penchant for revelry, and a father confined behind bars, support was scarce. Strangely, even in his absence, my father provided more guidance than my mother, who was mired in anxiety and paranoia, seeing threats and scams at every turn. Her victim mentality cast a shadow over our lives, compelling me to break free from the cycle of dysfunction.

From a young age, I abstained from alcohol and meat, avoiding the pitfalls of parties and trouble. Unbeknownst to me at the time, I was a neurodivergent child, navigating a world that lacked the language to understand my needs. Yet, in the absence of adequate support, I learned to fend for myself, charting a course that led me from California to Pittsburgh, Long Island, NYC, Boston, Providence, and eventually settling in Nashville in my thirties.

The journey wasn’t without its repercussions. Estranged from my mother, and with my father now out of jail but homeless, I faced the stark realities of forging my own path. Yet, amidst the trials and tribulations, I found solace in my pursuit of freedom. Launching my business became more than a means to escape—it was my declaration of independence, my testament to resilience in the face of adversity. Through it all, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just about enduring hardship; it’s about forging ahead, despite the odds, and carving out a life on your own terms.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.grittradeco.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/grittradeco
• Other: Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/grittradeco