Making It Interview...
Maker interview with Robert Mahar
Having recognized the passion, drive, and pure enjoyment of making things that each Making It contestant illustrates, Makerviews is excited to have the chance to highlight, feature, and share insights from each contestant. This Making It series gives a deeper look into these makers’ lives. The format: Makerviews asks these talented individuals two questions. That’s it, two questions. Learn more about this series.
Robert Mahar is a very talented artist, designer, and maker who’s shadow puppets project on episode one shows his keen attention-to-detail. Robert enjoys teaching imaginative DIY projects and is sharing video tutorials on YouTube, CreativeLive, and in in-person workshops.
Check out this interview with Robert Mahar, maker from NBC’s Making It.
What inspires you to keep making things?
"I’m drawn to vintage craft traditions and cultural folk art that's been passed down from previous generations. One of my happy places is the library, where I can delve deep into books that explore these histories.
When I find a project or idea that sparks my imagination, I’ll explore ways to recreate it in a way that’s uniquely my own - often through the use of modern materials or construction techniques. Making these connections between the past and the present inspires me to continue making."
What one piece of advice would you give to other makers?
"Be prepared to make bad first drafts! No one tackles a new project and executes it perfectly the first time around. In this age of Instagram and Pinterest we’ve become so accustomed to seeing meticulously crafted work that has been styled within an inch of its life - but a peek behind the curtain would reveal countless rounds of trial and error. Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to fail - it’s part of the learning process."
"Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to fail - it’s part of the learning process." — Robert Mahar
Be sure to check out Robert Mahar’s website, Instagram, and Pinterest profile.
View and learn more about the Making It interview series.
Thank you all for reading this interview - get out there and make things!
