We were lucky to catch up with Shazia Adhikari recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shazia, thanks for joining us today. Have you signed with an agent or manager? Why or why not?
No I don’t have an agent
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Hi! My name is Shazia, and I’m a resin artist and small business owner currently based in Chicago. My love for art began in childhood, where I dabbled in sketching, pastel drawing, glass painting, and calligraphy. I’ve always been drawn to creating something unique, whether it was designing backdrops for school plays or experimenting with new techniques during my free time.
During the pandemic, like many people, I found myself searching for a creative outlet that brought both joy and purpose. That’s when I discovered resin art, a medium that truly captivated me. What began as a personal passion quickly evolved into a business, allowing me to share my creations with others and connect with clients through art.
I specialize in crafting custom resin pieces, including keychains, fridge magnets, plaques, trays, coasters, and wall art. My work blends functionality with artistic expression, and I take pride in tailoring each piece to suit my clients’ needs. Whether it’s a sentimental gift or a personalized home décor item, I love creating art that resonates deeply with its recipient.
What sets my work apart is my focus on storytelling through art. Each piece is made with care and attention to detail, reflecting my clients’ personal preferences, memories, or vision. I also love experimenting with color combinations, textures, and designs, ensuring that every creation is one of a kind.
I’m most proud of how my journey has allowed me to bring joy to others while pursuing something I’m truly passionate about. Building this business as a full-time mom of three has been challenging but incredibly rewarding, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received along the way.
To me, my brand is more than just about selling art—it’s about building a connection with people and helping them celebrate the moments that matter most. Whether it’s a keepsake capturing a cherished memory or a decorative piece that brightens up a space, I aim to create art that resonates on a personal level.
For those who follow or are considering working with me, I want them to know that my journey is driven by passion and authenticity. I pour my heart into every creation and constantly strive to learn and evolve as an artist.
Thank you for being a part of my artistic journey. I’m excited to continue sharing my passion for resin art with all of you!
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
One story that stands out in my journey as an artist is how I navigated starting my resin art business while balancing the responsibilities of being a full-time mom of three. When I first discovered resin art during the pandemic, I was immediately drawn to its versatility and beauty. However, turning that passion into a business came with its challenges.
There were times when I doubted myself—wondering if I could juggle motherhood, a household, and the demands of running a small business. Early on, I struggled with finding time to create while managing the chaos of daily life. I would often work late into the night after my kids were asleep, experimenting with techniques and perfecting my craft.
One of the most pivotal moments came when I received my first large custom order. It was exciting but also overwhelming. I had to learn time management quickly, ensuring I met the client’s expectations while still being present for my family. There were mishaps along the way—pieces that didn’t turn out as planned, delays due to unforeseen circumstances—but I kept pushing forward.
What kept me going was the belief in my art and the joy I saw in my clients when they received their personalized pieces. That first large order turned into multiple referrals, and slowly, my confidence grew.
This experience taught me that resilience isn’t about being perfect or fearless; it’s about showing up, learning from setbacks, and continuing to move forward. Today, I look back on those long nights and moments of doubt with gratitude because they shaped me into the artist and business owner I am now. Every piece I create is a reminder of that journey and the strength it took to get here.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to bring joy and meaning into people’s lives through my creations. There’s something truly magical about transforming an idea or a vision into a tangible piece of art that resonates with someone on a personal level. Whether it’s a custom keychain with a special name, a wall art piece that ties a room together, or a plaque that holds sentimental value, knowing that my work has made a positive impact is incredibly fulfilling.
What I cherish the most, however, are the connections I’ve built through my art. Hearing the stories behind my clients’ custom requests, seeing their excitement when they receive their pieces, and knowing that my work becomes part of their memories—it’s a humbling and gratifying experience.
Being an artist also allows me to keep growing and evolving. Every piece I create teaches me something new, and every challenge pushes me to think outside the box. The journey itself is as rewarding as the outcome, and I’m grateful every day to be able to do what I love while sharing it with others.
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