“What does your soul feel, look or sound like?” When one hears this question they might be taken aback. However, if they were presented with the statement, “Describe yourself in three words,” they would be able to answer with ease. Both of these phrases aim to learn more about a person, except they approach this task differently, each investigating the ways people express themselves. One such way is through art.
Visual arts and crafts are different forms of expression for artists. Their work acts as a window, granting people a look into a creator’s inner world. Some FHS students have furthered their interest in art through starting a small business by marketing and selling their pieces online.
“I really like crafting jewelry,” FHS sophomore Malena Andrade said. “My friend Tamar [and I] would get together for craft nights, but we were making too much for ourselves. We figured it would be profitable to sell them to others so they could also enjoy the jewelry.”
Andrade started selling necklaces and rings with FHS sophomore Tamar Aharon a little over a year ago at local craft fairs. She shared that with the introduction of Instagram Teen Accounts, it has been more difficult to advertise as their account is now private. However, regardless of the challenges, Andrade finds the process relaxing and rewarding.
“My favorite part is showing other people what we create, and they can tell us what they like,” Andrade said. “I like putting the thought into [each item].”
Just like Andrade, FHS senior Aditi Jayabalan discovered an art form she enjoyed in ninth grade through macrame, the art of knotting string to make decorative patterns. Jayabalan eagerly started looking for ways to develop her new interest.
“Macrame is really calming, because I do it when I have free time and want to de-stress,” Jayabalan said. “I started selling [macrame plant hangers] after I realized I had way too many to keep in my own house. I was giving them away to friends and family, but I realized that I could start my own Etsy shop and sell handmade items there.”
Contrastingly, FHS senior Tara Krishna started selling her art of choice, block printing, because she wanted to meet other artists and share more about her print-making process. Through starting her small business, Krishna reflected that she has learned a lot about herself.
“It’s a challenge: when you sell your art, you have to take a certain level of pride in it,” Krishna said. “You also have to be willing to be confident that what you’ve made is important. [Making and selling art] is a good confidence builder.”
Ultimately, all three artists have found their own unique ways to express themselves. Each creates meaningful pieces connected to who they are. Through their passionate pursuit of their small businesses, they have been able to share their art with others while forming new connections with other artists, demonstrating the power of self-expression.
