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

Hi Chelsea, how has your work-life balance changed over time?

For the first several years I really pushed myself to be in the studio as much as I possibly could and the stress and overexertion had detrimental effects on my physical and mental health. Not only was I burned out and sleep deprived, but my work was sub-par.

That’s now something I pay attention to.

These days, I make a conscious effort in taking time off and resting when I can. Checking out of the studio at a specific time helps, as well as asking others for help when I need it. All of the intentional downtime refills my tank so when I am working I notice I’m more alert and present. And I actually make better work because of it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Lots of things!
Right now, I’m building up inventory for the web shop in preparation for the holidays and fulfilling wholesale orders. I also present in-person workshops throughout the year at Makers Mess, one of which is happening at their studio space inside ROW DTLA on December 10. Custom work also keeps me busy. At the moment, I have a couple of commissions- one is of a logo for a business in Maine and the other is a set of pendant lamp shades for a new eatery, Skaf’s on York, soon to open in Highland Park.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Visalia is a small town and conveniently located to many great things, indoors and out.

I would take them for coffee and breakfast at Component Coffee Lab. We’d check out the local breweries, eat at Sushi Kuu and Pita Kabob, grab cocktails at Elderwood on the rooftop of the Darling Hotel, go for a hike in the foothills of Sequoia National Park (it’s only 40 minutes from town), swim in Lake Kaweah, and head to a show at Cellar Door later because there’s always a great band in town (Visalia is half way between L.A. and S.F. so bands frequently stop here to play).

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

There are so many artists and crafts people making amazing things!

I can’t get enough of the hand poured concrete candles made by Bad Moon On The Rise, in New Mexico.

I wear jewelry by Her New Tribe, On the Lookout, Weave Gold, Make Pie, and Savannah Goodwin.

I shop Findings Market and Tiger Owl in Ventura, Root General in Fresno, and appreciate all things eco-friendly, second-hand, vintage, and handmade, everywhere.

Website: brewerandmarr.com

Instagram: @brewer.and.marr

Image Credits
Photos of me in the studio: Jacki Potorke. Photos of stained glass: Chelsea Brewer

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.