We had the good fortune of connecting with Tyler Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tyler, how do you think about risk?
Risks are something that most people are afraid of. That fear of the unknown, and not knowing if it’s worth the risk. But to me? Risk is everything. Risk forces you to work harder, risk makes you pursue your passion, risk helps you see beyond your own capabilities. Taking the risk to start my pottery business could have meant that I could have failed, lost all the money I spent. Instead, it made me work harder than I ever have before, forcing me to make that risk all worth it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started off in high school, taking a 3D design class that was mostly ceramics and clay. I instantly fell in love with all aspect of clay work. Whether it’s throwing on the wheel, or hand building a sculpture, I love putting my blood, sweat, and tears into my work. Getting into this profession wasn’t easy, and it still isn’t! I’m learning more and more everyday, getting used to different elements of ceramics. I don’t have a “set in stone” style, which is what I think makes me unique and different from other pottery people. Making different things everyday helps my mind stay focused and giving me that artistic freedom that many artists are unable to do when they are restricted. I have such an appreciation for clay itself and it’s connection to the earth, and I couldn’t imagine my life without having my outlet as my career

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am a California girl, so by far I would go with a simple day at the beach. There’s nothing quite as therapeutic as the sound of the bright blue ocean waves crashing against the grainy shore. I love a day full of surfing, and relaxing with the warm sun against your skin.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a HUGE shoutout to my family. Through the ups and the downs they still believed in me, giving me that %100 support that I needed to push through and work hard. Giving a helping hand when I needed it, and never doubting me. I love my family and I couldn’t be where I am today without them <3

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TylerLeilaniArtz?ref=nla_listing_details

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tyler_leilani_artz/

Linkedin: https://linktr.ee/Tyler_leilani_artz

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC15l0vi7IC-qJZHdN_gC8OA/videos?sub_confirmation=1

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