Meet El Soto | Chainmail Artist

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

Hi El, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success is community support. I started making jewelry because of how depressed I was, and it was my community at the time that supported my endeavor. The queer community has uplifted and supported me in my success the most, which is why I sell in queer spaces. That’s also why I keep the prices the way I do- I know we’re all struggling and I want to keep chainmail accessible.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m most proud of myself for continuing and not giving up even when it’s been hard. I’m most excited about pop-up events and people getting excited to wear my jewelry. I’ve gotten to where I am today because of the support of my community. It has not been easy to get where I am- I’m still learning a lot about the craft and how to manage a small business as someone underprivileged. The world isn’t really built for people like me- a lot of people have expected me to fail but I’ve continued to move forward.

I started designing chains to keep my mind and hands busy and away from depression and sad thoughts. Today, my creations serve as proof that beauty can emerge from sadness. My hope is that people that buy my jewelry experience positive energy from the chains they welcome into their life, and that they find strength and positivity even in their most challenging moments.

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 really like the observatory. I think the walk up is hellish but worth it. The views are really pretty and you get to see the city in a different light. I’d take them to the Catalyst in Silver Lake. Some must-try food spots are Gokoku, Rakkan Ramen, Green Leaves Vegan, the guy that sells raspados in the little golf cart in Hollywood- shoutout to that guy.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout is to my partner, Sage Calderón, and my father, Jorge. Both are very important in my life and have supported and backed my decision to move out of the corporate world and onto an artistic journey. My partner is very community-driven and passionate about helping others, and my father has always supported me which has really shaped me into the person I am now. I wouldn’t be where I am at right now without either of their support.

Website: https://littledaisieschains.com

Instagram: @littledaisieschains