Today we’d like to introduce you to Staci Sterenberg.
Staci, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Moved to Chicago from Michigan in 1994. Designed jewelry and accessories for boutiques and stores like Urban Outfitters and Hot Topic.
Opened a store in 19997-2001 in Roscoe village called Stella Designs.
After having two children, I started working as an elementary school teaching artist and recently earned a Masters in Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. I teach mosaic to all ages at workshops and in my home studio located in Hermosa. I call it the “Rest in Pieces Mosaic Parlor”.
In the summer, I show my work in art fairs around the Midwest and participate in gallery exhibits as well. I work primarily in mosaic and assemblage, but also embroider, quilt and weave.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This journey is not linear and not smooth! While I was making plans, life happened and took me in directions that I never saw coming like becoming an art educator. Like the art-making process, detours on the path are what makes life interesting and rich, but it also leads to bouts with uncertainty and questions like, what am I doing with my life? and what happens next?
In order to make a living as a mother/artist, I have had to become as comfortable with ambiguity and setbacks. Both roles demand 100% attention and so something’s got to give. Now that my children have grown, I’m able to devote more time to my work and this has changed the kind of the work I do contextually. Nothing in my life has happened without surprises and remaining flexible and finding opportunities to share my work with others is the force that drives me. Being and artist on your own terms doesn’t come with a map, so be adventurous and own it.
Staci Sterenberg – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I’ve had to learn how to be in business through trial and error. If you are a working artist, you are an entrepreneur and should educate yourself accordingly. I wish this was advice I was given. Everything I learned about the business end was from experience and mentors.
My work is inspired by folk art and self-taught traditions from all cultures. I have deep admiration and respect for those who work with their hands.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
There have been many proud moments, but I am most proud when I connect with others through my work, whether it’s through my teaching or art practice.
Contact Info:
- Email: stacisterenbergmosaics@gmail.com
- Instagram: @stacisterenberg
- Facebook: stacisterenbergmosaics
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