Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sarah Yawney . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Sarah , thanks for joining us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

My journey as an artist goes in reverse order of what most would think– I had a full time job as a display artist for 10 years and wanted to take a leap into being my own boss and running my own business. I wanted to bet on myself for once and see where that would take me. It was the most rewarding leap but also the most terrifying! I loved my years working as a display artist for Anthropologie but I knew that there was something tugging at my heart to explore and take a chance on. I started Penelope Design Studio while working full time and just thought of it as a fun side hustle, I never in my wildest dreams would have thought this could or would be my full time job down the road. After a few years of working on both jobs I realized that I wanted to take the leap of faith and try my hand at running Penelope Design Studio full time. The leap was scary but I know that it was necessary for the growth of my business and also for myself personally.

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 Penelope Design Studio in 2017 with the dream to make jewelry that is handmade, one of a kind, and obtainable to all. I decided that it was the perfect time to start pursuing my passion to not only own my own small business but also to let my always “making” soul come to the forefront of my life. Each piece of jewelry is handmade in my Charleston, SC studio from only two materials- 100% copper and 100% leather/suede. I have found that using only these two materials creates an exciting collaboration that has endless possibilities that stretches my creative soul.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I have always considered myself to be a maker, I am constantly making and am fulfilled personally to see a vision come to life after a vision or an idea has flourished in my mind. It is also one of the most daunting jobs because you never know when an idea will be successful or if it will actually work. I am always thinking of new ideas and trying out new approaches to my craft, evolution is part of my everyday life.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I think that support of artists and creatives should be a part of every community. Everything that you see and touch has come from someones creative ideas and should be celebrated. For most cities there are makers markets that support a thriving creative ecosystem and I think this is critical for the communities to come out and support their fellow makers!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://penelopedesignstudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/penelope.design.studio/?hl=en

Image Credits
Libby Williams Photography