Featured Maker: Anna Coulbeck
March: MEET THE MAKER
I’m mixing things up a little bit for the month of March. Instead of having a theme around making, I’m having a theme around MAKERS! I’ll be sharing interviews with local makers and learning all about their journey, their challenges and what it looks like to be a maker.
If you enjoy peeking into the minds of fellow creatives, join us!
Hello makers,
Today I would like to introduce Anna Coulbeck from Fox Glass Studio. Anna is based here in Ōtautahi Christchurch and creates beautiful, vibrant and modern stained glass art works. But her pieces are not the kind that sit high in a window frame barely seen, they are designed to be front and centre, they are stunning standalone pieces of art.
Anna works in a range of styles; her pieces can be fun and quirky, beautiful and serene, or evoke a sense of nostalgia and memory. I love that! Her creativity, craftsmanship and curiosity shine through in her work.
Whether creating functional home decor or whimsical free-standing pieces, my work aims to evoke a sense of wonder and delight, inviting viewers to explore the magical realm of stained glass art - Anna Coulbeck.
Here is Anna’s story.
How long have you been working as a maker or artist professionally or as an entrepreneur?
I have been into all crafts for many years, but it wasn't until 4 years ago that I discovered my passion for glass, in particular, stained glass.
Did you switch careers from something more traditional to become a maker/artist? Can you give us a little about the path you have taken?
My husband and I own a Panel shop, and 4 years ago our oldest son developed nocturnal epilepsy making going to work very unpredictable as his seizures would occur between 5:00-7:00am. I decided I needed to decrease my work hours while we made that journey but also knew I needed something for my own growth and learning while at home. I have always loved colour and texture and glass grabbed my attention.
What pivotal moments or decisions shaped your path as a maker or artist?
I think the biggest shift for me was doing my first market. I picked a well known market that cost quite a bit more but had a fantastic reputation and always great numbers of customers. I was very nervous as to how sales would go and weather people would like my work, and it was the confidence boost I needed. Artists are always their biggest critic!
What resources or communities have been most valuable in your journey?
Others working in glass have been amazing. They have always been so open and happy to share their knowledge. Without that I think I would have given up very early on as I self-taught and the first months where very hard. I was expecting I would be good at it much sooner than I was.
What does a typical work day look like for you?
Once my boys are off to school, I spend most of my time in the studio either working directly on glass or sketching ideas. I really only get the school hours to work on things, which at this stage in my journey works perfect as I get to spend the late afternoon baking and enjoying down time.
I'm often curious when I see makers share all the different ways they make their art or business work financially. Can you share if you have various income streams?
My main sales points for my art are through Felt, and the couple of markets I select throughout the year. I try to limit myself to only 2-3 markets so I don't find myself simply making bulk items to sell and can work on my glass as an art.
Do you find time to experiment with your creativity now that it's also your job?
Yes. While I have smaller items I know sell well and make sure I have on hand at markets, I try to always follow my creative side. I find when I do, people appreciate the story behind the item and it gives it new meaning. Sometimes it might take longer to sell, but when the right person comes along, there is a connection between them and the item, and I love to hear the story behind their purchase.
How do you define success as an entrepreneur?
Having someone purchase an item for me is the best. If someone is willing to part with their hard earned money for something I made, it makes my day! I even have some that have returned to markets multiple times to purchase from me which is amazing.
Do you find it hard to switch off from from your work when you work from home?
Sometimes it is hard to switch off, especially when your studio is in your home. But it also has the bonus of being able to get an idea and you can jump in there to sketch it or write out your plan.
How do you combat the loneliness that often comes with working as a solopreneur?
It is great to find others in art that you share common things with. I have just recently joined Arts Canterbury, who hold monthly get togethers for their member, and I am lucky to now be teaching a stained glass class once a week so get to enjoy teaching others who also have a love of glass.
How do you overcome creative blocks or periods of low inspiration?
I take a break and work on other things. On occasion it can be days before inspiration returns, but so far it always has. I find if I get low periods and try to think of a solution it ends up making things worse.
Do you have a bread and butter product? Something that consistently sells?
I have a couple of smaller items that I make for markets that are perfect for people needing gifts. I keep them in the lower price bracket to make them affordable and something new and unique for those hard to buy for people. My most popular are bird items.
If you could tell people who are thinking of starting a handmade business, what advice would you give them?
Set goals for yourself so you don't get trapped into just trying to sell your product. You need to have time to continue your learning journey and grow your skill set.
Thanks to Anna for taking time out of her day to share with our little community. You can find Anna online at foxglass.co.nz, on Instagram @foxglassstudio and at local markets here in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Once again, I’ll be back with more interviews from local makers soon!
Happy making everyone,
Esta
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Seek to Make is an exploration of creativity and making. Each month, I share a monthly theme around making, showcase inspiring makers, share tips, tools and encouragement. Together let's get curious and immerse ourselves in the art of making!
Thank you for this timely article. Anna's work is truly beautiful and so creative. And, her words are both affirming and encouraging. I feel myself in good company in following my intuition about my creative life through what Anna shares here. I really needed this connection this morning, so big thanks to you both.
Your articles show casing the diversity of creative people in our hood have been so interesting. I love Anna's work.