I'm a Maker Because...with Aja Smart
Aja Smart, Fiber Artist - Maker Miniviews series. These interviews are quick and to-the-point, check it out.
By Scott Mathson, Makerviews
Makerviews exists to share the stories of and advice from a variety of talented makers, designers, and artists.
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Miniviews series - No. 78 with Aja Smart
You’ve landed on the seventy-eighth installment of the Maker Miniviews (mini, two question interviews) series. Learn more about these maker interviews and view a list of all Miniviews.
Aja Smart is the designer, owner, and maker behind Strand Texture - a fiber art brand established in 2019. Aja is a self-taught macrame artist and weaver, specializing in eclectic wall hangings made from eco-friendly/cruelty-free fibers. Also a jewelry maker, painter, dancer, and more - a true maker through-and-through - Aja finds making things to be both meditative and a meaningful form of expression.
Check out this interview with Aja!
I'm a Maker Because...
Aja Smart interview
What inspires you to keep making things?
"Creating has always been, and will continue to be an important facet of my life. It’s a part of who I am, and even after quiet periods it always radiates back through me. Sometimes it manifests itself in different mediums, and I love to embrace that. Having a very supportive family and community certainly helps to continue on the journey as well!"
What one piece of advice would you give to other makers?
"Give yourself grace when it comes to pushing through a project or permission to step away. Your emotional state can affect or be affected through the process of creating, and it’s okay to allow some breathing room if you are struggling. Take a walk outside, listen to some music, do something that makes you smile, or cry, and then come back refreshed."
"Your emotional state can affect or be affected through the process of creating, and it’s okay to allow some breathing room if you are struggling..." — Aja Smart
Follow Aja Smart’s work: Strand Texture website • Instagram profile.
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Signup for newsletter"Having a very supportive family and community certainly helps to continue on the journey as well..." - Aja Smart
