Today we’d like to introduce you to Bree Gerber
Hi Bree, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I came to Minnesota in the summer of 2022 after struggling to make ends meet in California, where I had been born and raised. Since moving here, I have had the opportunity to establish myself, heal my nervous system, and get back in touch with my artistic side. I have always loved art; growing up, I would sign up for whatever art classes were available at my school. I love creating with my hands, taking classes in photography, graphic design, painting, ceramics, and woodworking. Now, I find myself coming into my 28th year around the sun next month, and I carry the same desires and passions I did back then, but now expanded even further and with adult money. I have been creating accessories, wrist straps, lanyards, makeup bags, keychains, hair scrunchies, cotton masks, and more. Additionally, I have been creating prints for my shop using various unique tools and designs, such as linoleum blocks and Lokta paper.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road, not only for me but also for my family. Before making the move to Minnesota, I found myself homeless and living out of my car, unable to find housing despite having a job. In the last few years, I have become a caregiver to my partner, Ben, after they suffered a stroke and spinal cord injury. I am eternally grateful to be in the beautiful state of Minnesota which has given me the opportunity to live a beautiful and fulfilling life.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an eccentric creative who creates unique artwork in various mediums. Currently, I have been focusing on sewing and printmaking. My Etsy shop has purses, makeup bags, hair scrunchies, wrist straps, lanyards, and other everyday items. I am also a graduate student working on my M.S. in Psychology and a paraprofessional within the Bloomington Public Schools District, so I am currently unable to dedicate as much time as I would like to my shop. In the future, I hope to work as a child psychologist and continue to expand my art business.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The most important quality that has aided me in my success is my resilience despite the challenges I have faced in my life. There were times when I did not want to continue on, after being sexually assaulted at 14 and experiencing homelessness at 24, I am now eternally grateful to be in the position I am today.
Pricing:
- $6 Print Original Art
- $5 Fabric Original Art Patch
- $6 Hair Scrunchie
- $6 Wrist Strap Keychain
- $40 Shoulder Bag
Contact Info:
- Website: https://inkandironworks.etsy.com
- Instagram: @inkandironwrks
- Other: https://snhu.joinhandshake.com/profiles/52626601
