Accessorizing with Clay: An Interview with Olivia Shashura of Evergreen Artistry

When did you become interested in clay jewelry making?

I really started to become interested in clay jewelry last fall. I saw an artist on Instagram and I was hooked. I was so intrigued with the versatility of clay, and that it really was a blank canvas to create anything your head could dream up! 

… I saw an artist on Instagram and I was hooked. I was so intrigued with the versatility of clay, and that it really was a blank canvas to create anything your head could dream up! 

How did you come up with the name Evergreen Artistry?

I love this story! I came up with the name “Evergreen” when I was about to get married. My maiden name is Green, and I had grown to love it for its simplicity. I have all brothers, so I was the only one whose name was going to change and I was a little sad to give it up, (even though I was thrilled to take my husband’s). So while brainstorming one day, I just thought “Evergreen!” So through Evergreen Artistry, I can keep the name Green in some way.

How did you go about establishing a business online? What advice would you give to people who are considering doing the same?

I feel like I’m not equipped to answer this question because it has really just fallen into place… This whole thing really just started out as posting a pair of earrings on Instagram, and it grew from there! My advice would be to just go for it! Post a picture and do what you love! It also doesn’t hurt to have a game plan, though. After not having one at first, I would now encourage those starting out to look into developing one.

This whole thing really just started out as posting a pair of earrings on Instagram, and it grew from there! My advice would be to just go for it!

Is it easy to sell your earrings on Instagram? Or was it challenging to figure out what works best?

In the beginning it was fairly easy because I have wonderful friends and family who support me, but as time has gone on it’s gotten a bit more difficult to connect with new crowds, especially because I am not talented when it comes to social media. It has helped to keep a group of ladies around me who have different strengths than I do to get advice and ideas! 

From where do you draw inspiration for your earring designs?

Usually, they just pop up in my head. Either while I’m sitting at my desk ready to work, or when I am doodling, about to fall asleep, or making dinner! 

How would you describe your creative process?

I tend to overthink things, but when I am creating I really try to calm my mind and just make.

Some creators prefer to play specific playlists while creating. Do you have a specific genre or handful of artists that get you in the creative mood?

I love this question! I am also a musician, music is my first love. So actually, when I am sitting down to work, I don’t listen to any music whatsoever! I love the quiet- it’s where my mind finds the most creativity. I do usually find myself humming by the end, though! 

What are your top three personal favorite earring designs?

Right now I am loving the Coastal’s, the Anna’s and the Lexi’s! 

What sets clay jewelry apart from pieces made from other materials?

What sets clay apart is that it is dirt that has been refined and formed into a beautiful piece of jewelry. It is something that was worthless but now has worth because it has met its maker. I resonate with this because we can all be molded into something beautiful because we have all come from dust. There’s hope in the process, a message that I need to remind myself of regularly.

It is something that was worthless but now has worth because it has met its maker. I resonate with this because we can all be molded into something beautiful because we have all come from dust.

To see more of Olivia’s beautiful clay designs visit her Instagram profile @evergreenartistry