Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariana Sullivan.
Hi Ariana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Ariana, the Maker behind my small art business Brush & Blossom! I am a flower-obsessed, plant-loving, self-taught artist. My intention is to blend nature into my creative process and inspire others to as well. Surrounding myself with the beauty found in nature sparks my creative excitement. I find purpose in absorbing beautiful natural elements that I appreciate and translate it in my own way to create something meaningful and memorable.
Since I was a little girl, art has been a huge part of my life. I love sculpting clay, pressing flowers, paper crafting, photography, painting, and gardening. For years and years, I dreamt of making a living as an artist, but I wanted to focus on a common product or theme to build a business. With Brush & Blossom, I create botanical-inspired modern bohemian clay jewelry and pressed flower art. I find so much joy in creating my pieces, and I absolutely love sharing them with others who find joy in wearing and using them! I also teach art workshops, which brings me so much joy to teach someone my craft and see what they create!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My artistry is all self-taught, and I didn’t go to school for business, so I basically learn as I go. I love consulting and collaborating with others who have experience and insight to share. I’m thankful to have such a wonderful community of artists and makers who help and encourage one another. I was working part-time at a corporate job, and as my business grew, I struggled to keep up and focus for a short time.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I love going for walks to forage for flowers and leaves. I press or dry flowers and leaves to create a variety of original pieces. I specialize in pressed botanical keepsake art and jewelry. Clients will give me a sentimental flower or leaf for me to make something special and memorable for them. Since I enjoy my craft so much, I wanted to share this skill with others. First, I developed a few art workshops to teach online. Then I created a DIY at home version on my Etsy shop, and then hosted workshops in person at local spaces like coffee shops and breweries. Hosting art workshops is one of my favorite and most proud accomplishments! I also host art markets to help create a community of artists and makers to support one another and to provide a space from them to share their work. These markets are called Creative Market. For 2024, these markets I host will be at Java & Brie which is at 240 Glynn Street in Fayetteville! This space supports businesses run by local women. I’m so excited to see this market community grow more and more.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
My first business endeavor was when I was 10. My friend and I would make candles and sell them to our neighbors! We loved working with glitter and fun colors. Then, I moved on to a little sewing business. Redesigning thrifted items and mending pieces was my specialty. When I created my business now, Brush & Blossom, it started with watercolor painted greeting cards and pet portraits. I still love working with so many different mediums, my goal with my brand is to cling to a botanical theme. I am in the process of getting onto a more sustainable path. I’ve been learning how to eco-dye and print using vegetable scraps and flowers. I’m so excited to see where Brush & Blossom goes!
Contact Info:
- Website: Brushandblossomshop.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/brushandblossomshop
- Facebook: Facebook.com/brushandblossomshop
- Other: Etsy.com/shop/brushandblossom
Image Credits
Photo credits to Rosalynne from These Days are Golden.
