Maikki Hurmerinta
Star Castle Spotlights are monthly artist spotlights that feature one of the many artists/makers that inspire the Star Castle community.
I was instantly hooked on the magical world of Mai Darling Designs when I first locked eyes with one of her adorable creatures! This talented artist, Maikki Hurmerinta, brings magical little beings to life through sculpting, in a way that I’ve never seen done before. Adding ethereal elements and fantasy-like attributes to beloved animals adds a sense of familiarity while simultaneously catapulting her unique pieces to a world all of their own!
Like many artists, Maikki originally questioned her talents, but she was able to focus on the passion behind creating (just like you can!) to get to where she is today. I hope you’re as inspired by her unique creations as I am, and that you take her advice for other creatives to heart. Enjoy this peek behind her process, journey, and final creations and be sure to check out more of her work at maidarlingdesigns.com.
My artistic passion is creating with my hand, especially sculpting although I'm also a trained jewelry smith/lapidary artist. When I was a kid, there was this show on tv in which a clay artist would make gorgeous animal sculptures. I remember watching the show and wishing that I possessed such skills. I spent a lot of time in nature, watch all the nature shows, collected pictures of animals and tiny animal figurines. Those elements stuck with me in the back of my mind although it did take a while though before I went for my dreams. Started sculpting animals in 2016.
Cute, whimsical, soulful
It's hard for me to give just one answer to this question although the first thing that comes to mind is that one is able to work as a full time artist. However, I don't feel this is the only measurement of success.
I personally feel successful when people recognize my work and can relate to it on some level.
I'm the type of artist who often 'wings it'. I rarely make any sketches or color planning on paper, I do try to imagine each piece as carefully as I can. Each piece has to have a certain 'balance'. Sometimes things come together easily and sometimes I have to set a certain piece away for a day or two in order to look at it with fresh yes and to see if it's done or not.
Never ever do I compromise, though and I give each piece the time it deserves.
The one take-away would be joy.
I make my art to delight people and also to deliver something I'm feeling when I'm making my art. I often call my pieces little vessels of those feelings. Also, being a kid of the 80's and early 90's, you can definitely see a lot of inspiration from those decades and subsequently at least people of my age might also experience the feelings of nostalgia.
I make my art to delight people
and to deliver something I'm feeling when I'm making my art.
I often call my pieces little vessels of those feelings.
My work space is small and simple and therefore it's crucial that each thing have their own place. I keep a lot of things on my desk in order to work efficiently. I also keep a lot of different materials and test pieces close by so I can go explore them and let them spark new ideas.
The first and biggest obstacle was getting started and believing in myself.
I used to think that I didn’t have the talent to become a sculptor. I did have the passion for it though, which eventually took me to where I am today. Also the support of others has been crucial in building myself a new part of my identity as an artist.
My advice is to listen to people who believe in you and stop listening to those who don't.
Don't compare yourself to others and where they're at. None of that was achieved in day so patiently walk your own path and own it.
Explore the magical world of Mai Darling Designs
Dying to see more of these magical little creatures? You’re not alone!! Checkout more of Maikki’s work at maidarlingdesigns.com. Did a specific piece of her advice, journey or process resonate with you? Let her know by connecting on Instagram @maidarlingdesigns! Remember, we’re truly stronger together!
You can learn more about my Star Castle Spotlight series and apply to be featured here.
Looking to build a brand around your art?
I know you have your own artistic passion that you’re ready to take to the next level.
Let’s work together to build a unique brand you can be proud of.
Schedule a time to chat with your new design sidekick (me!) — tomorrow you’ll wish you had started today!
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