We recently connected with Mai Gutierrez and have shared our conversation below.

Mai, appreciate you joining us today. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea

Hi! My name is Mai Gutierrez, I’m the owner and principal at Studio Sin Fin. I was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico. I’m an artist and designer. The artist focuses on sculpture and public art. The designer focuses on architectural and interior design. These two sides are not mutually exclusive, they thrive when dependent on each other.

The beginning of my career began somewhat “off-course”. I was sure I didn’t want a desk job. With architecture becoming a computer heavy career, despite my two degrees, was not an option. I had a plethora of diverse jobs. Starting with jewelry production, to running the CNC machine at a woodshop that fabricated dovetail drawers, to fabricating cabinets in one of the best millwork shops in Austin. Soon after, I had the opportunity to work under one of the most recognized sculptors in Monterrey; Jorge Elizondo. I spent a year in El Eje, working on the most incredible marble and steel sculptures.

Early in my career, I aimed to shatter the preconceived notion of success. I set architecture aside, sure money-making career and focused on what I loved, working with my hands. It was wonderful, yet it lacked the financial means to achieve what I truly wanted, my own shop. Upon my return from Monterrey, I bit the bullet and did the thing my twenty-two years old self would not approve of; a full-time job as an architectural designer. I felt I had “given up on the dream”. Little did I know how fun the challenge would be and how hand-in-hand it went with the artistic career.

Today I’ve completed the construction of my shop and opened my own art and design studio. I intend to focus my efforts on a continued balance of variety in my practice. Sin fin means without end in Spanish, meaning endless possibilities of where my practice will go.

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

Studio Sin Fin is a multi-disciplinary art and design studio focused on architectural and interior design services, furniture design-build, and visual art. A word that has stuck with me throughout the years is gesamtkunstwerk, meaning a total work of art where different art forms come together to create a cohesive whole. I like to offer my clients not only the design of their new or remodeled space but also the design and construction of their furniture and millwork and aid in curation of art and interiors. Their project becomes a total work of art provided by a single multidisciplinary studio.

This philosophy does not exclude single-faceted projects. Much of the visual and public art created in the studio is individual by nature. However, much like the artist and designer that leans on each other, these projects gather inspiration from each other’s materials and processes. The variety in my practice keeps me engaged. I like to give every project significance regardless of its size and essence, always drawing from previous experiences to produce the best aesthetic and functional solution.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Believe it or not, word of mouth has been the best source of clients for Studio Sin Fin. We live in a high tech world highly focused on social media. When I first started marketing, I imagined social media would be a high avenue for profit, it was nothing but. I learned that giving your clients your all, and really putting your heart into the process will create a strong reputation that sells more than any add you can put out there. I’ve received calls from strangers saying so and so recommended Studio Sin Fin to them. This only proves that hard work pays off, and a great reputation is your strongest weapon.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

There’s been numerous challenges and even more help from incredible individuals. The biggest struggle to overcome was starting; gaining the courage to allow self-confidence to rise and take the leap. My biggest limitations were my expectations; the fear of failure and the unknown. I learned to ignore the voice in my head spouting off concerns and aimed to keep momentum. There’s still some oh-shit moments, but I continue to remind myself that the universe does provide.

I’m fortunate enough to have amazing mentors which I depend on not only for professional advice but also for friendship. Knowing I have that network of brilliant and resourceful people gives me assurance that there is always a solution, it’s just a matter of figuring it out. My advice to others is to lean on people whom they’ve learned from, more than likely they want to see you succeed, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.studiosinfin.com
• Instagram: @studio_sinfin
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studio.sinfin
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/studio-sin-fin

Image Credits
Andrea Calo, Alejandra Gutierrez