Our makers never fail to motivate us, encourage our creativity, and fill us with inspiration. So, when a new design enters our assortment, we’re always excited to learn more about the people behind the product.
What gets an artist going and keeps them creating is certainly worth sharing, and every great connection starts with a simple introduction. Meet Gabe Herz, the maker, along with Andy Clark, of our new Cold Brew Coffee Maker.
When did you know you wanted to be an artist?
I grew up surrounded by art. My mom was a professional artist working out of her home studio painting watercolor portraits. That environment had a huge influence on me. Though I wasn’t particularly talented at drawing or painting, I really liked to build things. The creative process was always a big part of my life. In college, I studied engineering, but I always took as many art classes on the side as I could. I discovered that art and engineering are not mutually exclusive. They can complement one another beautifully.
What was the most exciting thing about becoming a professional artist?
Being all in (kinda the scary part too).
What does your typical day in the studio look like?
If I’m lucky, I’m getting my hands dirty building prototypes or testing out some new ideas. Our office is a great place to prototype. We share a workspace with another company that’s building electric airplanes, so we’ve got access to some seriously cool tools.
Is there a trinket, talisman, or other inspirational object you keep near? If so, what is it and what does it mean to you?
About 15 years ago, my family passed down an old leather messenger bag to me. By the time I got it, it had already lived a very full life reflected in its beautiful patina. It travels nearly everywhere with me, and is a constant reminder for me to try to design objects like it: something that’s long lasting, gets better with age and becomes personal.
Imagine you just showed your work to a kindergartner for the first time. What do you think they would say?
I’ve yet to meet a kindergarteer that liked coffee, so they’d probably say “So…..can it make hot chocolate?”
What quote or mantra keeps you motivated?
Seth Godin’s “Just Ship” mantra is a simple reminder to share my ideas with the world rather than keeping them hidden while I endlessly perfect them.
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