Meet Chelsea Gorham | Arist

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

Hi Chelsea, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I can’t deny that creative expression is in my genes. Coming from a long line of makers and artists, my upbringing consisted of many explorations that fine-tuned my appreciation of beauty that could be shared. There were many years of discovering watercolor, charcoal drawings, illustrative design, digital media and technical design. And while my educational studies were headed for success in ambitions to become an architect, I couldn’t pull away from the yearning to produce art that connected on a more personal level — Something that felt more genuine and expressive. I discontinued my studies as a student architect, and took the leap to focus more on my new family and while rediscovering my love for art that felt more “me’.

Alright, so let’s move onto what sets you apart in your industry?
What sets me apart in my industry is my ability to think outside the box with mediums, surfaces, and techniques. As a pyrographer who focuses on wearable art, it allows me to explore textures and products that my customers can actually FEEL, interact with, and experience up close. Whether it be on their head or dangling from their ears, my work feels completely personal and unique.

CGDesigns has become something I’m proud of because it showcases everything that brings me joy. I learned early on that sticking to projects that feel most like home will be executed with care a precision that is difficult to get from a place that feels forced or foreign. Understanding your strengths and really diving in to that will produce an A+ product every time.

It is part of my brand and my story to be a refuge that feels both familiar and a place of curiosity. To always look for beauty in the everyday. To approach life with eyes full of sincere appreciation of your surroundings.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As an individual who loves the outdoors, I would plan a fall visit in Amarillo where the weather starts to cool. I would begin the tour in Palo Duro Canyon *the second largest canyon in the US* where we would explore the red dirt formations and hike the famous Lighthouse Trail. To cool down with refreshments I would then take them to Pondaseta Brewery where amazing local eats and specialty brews can be found every day of the week. Then we’d head out west to From 6th Collective where a sample of all Amarillo’s best retailers and artisans can be found under one roof! *Imagine a West Texas Anthropologie* And for a nightcap, we’d hang out downtown at the Barfield Hotel in their world-class speakeasy and sip on a classic gin and tonic or our West Texas favorite, the Chilton.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Mom, for always modeling what working with your hands can produce. For teaching me to not be afraid to jump right in – to learn by doing. Her method to success has guided me to this day. Not to mention, her appreciation for the arts, I can’t deny that they have had a great influence in my work.

Website: www.wearcgdesigns.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cgdesigns806

Image Credits
ElevenFour Photography (for the photo of Chelsea only)