Meet Your Maker- 3DE Creations

This week on MYM we have Jenifer from 3DE creations. I saw Jenifer's work at an art fair in Kennsington Market and immediately fell in love (the same art fair where I saw abominable ink). You will understand why I love her work once you see it ahah (it is 100% me lol). I love pottery, but I especially love unique and interesting pottery that stands out. 3DE's work is so unique and beautiful. I was so happy when I reached out and she agreed to partake in MYM (also found out she is a fellow east coaster :) - I am originally from NS).

Introduce yourself and your business. 

A native of Saint John, NB, sculptor & designer Jenifer Levine came to Ontario in 2000 with an artistic vision to create ceramic art that would challenge the standard practice of the medium. Her company "3DE Creations” produces unique functional ceramic art that portrays the natural complexity and beauty of the living form. Clay is the chameleon that can take on any shape, texture and intensity and the work from 3DE Creations challenges the stigma that is associated with this medium and is transforming the attitude towards clay and bringing out of the ‘stone age’.

How did you launch your business & what made you want to start a small business?

Being a maker of ceramics I wanted to bring my unique aesthetic on "pottery" to the public and broaden the accepted norm of the medium. Having a small business allowed me to reach more people by doing various shows within Ontario and abroad. 

What are some struggles you had starting your business and how did you over come them?

The primary struggle has been changing peoples view on "pottery". It is an up hill battle that I feel with 3DE Creations I haven been able to open peoples eyes to what you can create from clay and I continue to work towards informing and awing people with my unique creations.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

Pretty much anything. I am fortunate to have an ability that allows me to draw on many inspirations from books, to music, to conversations with friends and clients a simple conversation can lead to new and exciting ideas and projects.

What motivates you as a maker?

I like to make things that inspire others while still being functional. Having a piece of art is great but having art you can use on a daily basis is better.

What is a goal you set for yourself as a maker/artist and how did you achieve it?

My goals are fluid and always evolving. I set small daily goals for 3DE Creations and with each show and each new project I feel I'm slowly getting there. Art is a forever evolving practice and the more I create and refine my skills the closer I am to making the 3DE brand a household name.

What is your favorite part of being a maker?

Seeing people's reaction to my work and the fulfillment I get when I'm creating new pieces in my studio.

Do you have any tips for new makers/ small business owners?

Keep at it and everything happens in due time. It sounds cliche but perseverance truly pays off when you invest your entire being into what you believe in.

What are some hobbies or interests you have outside of your small business?

I'm an avid motorcycle rider and enjoy life drawing in my spare time.

Share a fun fact about yourself.

I used to play roller derby.