We caught up with the brilliant and insightful TALEA SUMLIN GAMBOA a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi TALEA, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Running a business and claiming it as an art business made me realize that I wasn’t living up to my full potential. However, I also recognized that my artwork was evolving as I improved my technique, which gave me the confidence to continue pursuing my passion for art. While art cannot necessarily be learned, it can certainly be enhanced with skills developed over time, and I am proud to have made significant progress in this area.

After a year into my art journey, I realized that my creative side had always been present. In fact, I was fascinated with fashion, design, culinary arts, and dance at a young age, and I excelled in these areas as a child and into my early 20s. Although my teaching career had stifled my creativity, 2020 gave me the opportunity to rediscover my passion. I discovered polymer clay on Instagram in July 2020 and was immediately drawn to it because it allowed me to bring all my designs to life.

While I studied other makers’ techniques, natural clay makers and metalwork, I knew that my techniques and mechanics would take time to grow. However, I was confident in my ability to be authentic and creative and to share my unique perspective of beauty with my audience. Although I faced obstacles along the way, including being my worst critic and doubting my decisions. I am now more comfortable being critical of myself and consistent with my design and collaboration. With three years of experience behind me, I am excited to continue pushing myself and reaching new heights in my art career.

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?

I am an artist specializing in Contemporary Abstract Expressionism. In July 2020, I discovered polymer clay on Instagram and was immediately drawn to its ability to bring my designs to life. As a Kindergarten teacher on summer break, I decided to start a side hustle, and the extra time during 2020 allowed me to turn my thoughts into reality. Working with polymer clay, I have developed numerous techniques for creating different textures, shapes, and earring functionalities. Contemporary Abstract Expressionism is characterized by bold, accentuated forms and dynamic shapes that encourage the viewer to use their imagination. With three years of experience, my outlook on Art, Fashion, and Jewelry is ever-changing. Black Oreja Designs offers selective, time-consuming, and intentionally made earrings. I also offer custom earring services. For in-person shopping, I provide color-matching services to match the undertones of the earrings. This enhances the natural undertone of the earrings and allows them to appreciate the art more. What started as a hobby in June 2020 has turned into a form of art and escapism. My display and photography are for all to enjoy and shop to enhance their beauty. My proudest moments are being consistent, growing, and being honest.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I firmly believe that there is no dream too big to achieve. As an artist, I am passionate about creating and constantly honing my skills and techniques, with the ultimate goal of one day seeing my art displayed in a professional studio or gallery. While every artist has their own unique goals, for me, my “why” is simple – I absolutely love art. There is something undeniably captivating about the beauty and mystery that lies behind every piece of art that draws me in, and I am eager to share that same feeling with others.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Business, art, and relationships have been important aspects of my life. Initially, my husband was very supportive of my choices, even when my thoughts were irrational, self-centered, and foolish. I was constantly creating, organizing pop-ups every other weekend, opening stores, and neglecting my own well-being and marriage. However, my husband was always there to keep me grounded and help me avoid making mistakes. Now that we have a new addition to the family, I have learned to be more mindful of my time and energy. I create only during my designated free time and vend at events that cater to my specific audience, which typically happens every other month. This new approach has allowed me to experience tremendous growth in the past year, and my creative thoughts and design techniques have improved significantly.
Over time, I have made drastic changes in my approach to business and art, but my passion for creativity has remained the same. Thanks to my husband’s constant support and guidance, I have been able to strike a healthy balance between my artistic pursuits and my personal relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: blackorejadesigns.square.site
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackorejadesigns
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackorejadesigns

Image Credits
Talea Sumlin Gamboa, Owner Black Oreja Designs