We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Olivia Carlson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Olivia , appreciate you joining us today. Alright – so having the idea is one thing, but going from idea to execution is where countless people drop the ball. Can you talk to us about your journey from idea to execution?
I have always loved trying new mediums as an artist. I decided to “go big or go home” trying epoxy resin for the first time in February of 2022. It was a trial period in my life, and having a creative outlet has always been very important to me. I started with creating pieces that incorporated my love for nature, rocks and colors. I was inspired to create geode-like wall pieces with crystals, trays and dishes with Lake Superior rocks and sand, and northern light pieces with live wood edges. The possibilities with resin are endless. About the same time I was creating these, my sister was planning her wedding. She asked if I could preserve her flowers in resin somehow. I said, “challenge accepted” and began researching. I practiced, and practiced and practiced some more. Her pieces came out beautifully and I received some attention on social media. I soon realized this could/would be something really special. I then offered to preserve other bridal bouquets and memorial pieces, and the next thing I knew my house was filled with flowers, containers, and drying silica. The local testimonials I received from the first few pieces I created was overwhelming. I was filled with joy, and decided I needed to go all in. “Now or never” I told myself. I have always used my artistic creativity as a joyful hobby, but it felt different this time. It felt like purpose, confidence and excitement. I began researching small businesses and the steps to take. I took each step one at a time. Creating my instagram, getting my website together with an official domain, and tax ID; it all became real very quickly. As my business was being started, I also challenged myself greater and gave myself a timeline to have my business fully ready by the Duluth Wedding Show. I went all in for the show to get myself launched in the community. It was surreal and the feedback from the show was powerful. I just reached one year of starting resin and I am proud of how far I have come.
Olivia , 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?
I am a local Duluthian. Born and raised in Duluth, Minnesota. I like to think of myself as a compassionate, free spirit. I love people, family, seeing the world’s beauty, and thanking The Lord for the talents and beautiful life He has given me. Creating has centered and kept me busy and growing all of my life. I have always been fascinated by nature, especially the colors in the sky, and the beauty hidden in soil. I love to challenge myself with new mediums and projects. I like to think that there is nothing I can’t do or at least try once. Art has always been something I enjoy and consume myself in when I have a new idea. My high school art teacher, Mr. Harder, really embraced my love for art, and uplifted skills I didn’t know I had. I sincerely thank him for always putting up with my tardiness, always believing in me, and always having an open door to create in. It wasn’t until high school that I noticed I had potential and entered in a local art show, placed, and eventually decided on attending college for art. I graduated with a fine arts degree, and always knew I wanted my own business. The artist’s dream. Almost 10 years after college, I officially started my own career doing what I love. Epoxy resin came into my life at a very hard time. It was an outlet I didn’t know I needed at the time. The Lord has a way with timing. I am proud of the art I have created over the years. The vulnerability in sharing artwork you’ve made from your soul is something I am very proud of. You really put yourself out there with a website, market display, or any social media. You leave room for criticism and compliments. It’s a beautiful thing to be a part of. We are our biggest critic, but I make each piece as if it were the only item I’m working on at the time. I wear my heart on my sleeve and put it all into my work. I had no idea the impact these pieces would have until I received feedback, and the tears started flowing. Preserving intimate keepsakes in resin is humbling and I am beyond grateful for each and every order I receive.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
I am truly blessed to create pieces of artwork as reminders of important days in people’s lives and memories of loved ones. It is an honor to be entrusted with intimate parts of people’s lives to create something they will cherish forever. The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is that someday I won’t be here, but the artwork I created with my hands will be bestowed in households somewhere.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
As a growing creative business, there have been many trials and errors. The biggest takeaway I can say is a phrase I’ve heard time again, “buy once, cry once.” Having the best quality materials I have learnt is the most efficient way to keep a business growing. I spent a hefty amount of money on materials that weren’t quality, because I was in a rush to start. The outcome of the products with cheap materials were definitely portrayed. I bought resin from a chain craft store, and the resin turned yellow in no time, while cheaper molds warped. I understand just starting out and using products for practice, but if you’re wanting quality results, you will have to put in the research, funds, and effort into all aspects of your business.
Contact Info:
- Website: Northshorepours.com
- Instagram: Northshorepours