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

Maryn , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

The most meaningful projects that I’ve worked on have been the custom clay sculptures I’ve done for people’s weddings, anniversaries, special holidays, and memorials.

My Mom unexpectedly passed away this year and she was the one who inspired me to get into crafting. She always loved the pieces I made, and I was able to sculpt a family portrait complete with our two dogs to display at her Memorial Service.

It was very meaningful to add that handmade and cute touch to the day and I based the design on a photo from our wedding day which we were so grateful she was able to attend. Having this special keepsake definitely brightened all of our spirits during this challenging time, and it is a reminder of how I’m carrying on her legacy and creative spirit in my work.

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 started Kawaii Craft Shop during the pandemic when I was looking for a creative escape. I discovered polymer clay and it took me back to my childhood when I would mold and bake tiny food out of clay.

I always loved collecting miniatures and cute “kawaii” things growing up, and this reignited that creative spark and joy I had when I was younger. There is something magical about creating things with your hands in this digital age. Clay is so forgiving and you can literally make anything you can imagine!

At Kawaii Craft Shop, I make handmade clay keepsakes including cake toppers, ornaments, jewelry, and accessories. I love doing custom pet and family sculptures and find the most meaning in these projects.

I also try and incorporate my Asian culture into my pieces since I didn’t see that representation growing up. When I see my customers light up at the nostalgic foods and artifacts that are so familiar to them in my work, I feel like I’m healing that part of me that used to hide my Asian identity to fit in.

With each handmade piece, I hope to spread joy and warmth to my customers and give them a keepsake that they can treasure for a lifetime.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

The mission of my creative journey has centered around worthiness. I have always had a creative spirit, but it took me a long time to take my creativity seriously and to know that I am worthy of creative freedom and expression.

I think most of us are born with a creative spirit, and unfortunately as we grow up, we can lose touch with it. By continuing to center my life around my creativity, I can keep finding new meaning in my work as I evolve.

I hope my journey can inspire others to tap into that part of themselves that may have been forgotten, especially my POC and AAPI friends who don’t always have the privilege or support to pursue their creative ambitions.

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

I think artists and creatives are the heartbeat of our society, but are too often taken for granted and undervalued. Art is what heals us in times of suffering, helps us imagine a better world in times of crisis, and can offer a small joy and escape in our daily lives.

The best way to support artists and creatives is to truly value what they bring to the world. We have to change the idea of a “starving artist” to a “thriving artist” and that will only happen when we change our views on the value of art and creativity.

The next time you have to buy a gift or want to share something on social media, try to support one of your artist friends. I personally try my best to support my artist community whenever I can, whether it’s sharing resources, supporting their business, or giving them a shout-out. We can uplift each other and every small act of support means so much.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kawaiicraftshop.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kawaiicraftlady/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/kawaiicraftlady
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kawaiicraftshop9062
• Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kawaiicraftlady?_t=8gOnYgZjd06&_r=1