Today we’d like to introduce you to Jack Reed.
Hi Jack, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Dodo Studio was born out of the Covid crisis but probably began when I was a young child with my first box of crayons. I’ve always been an artist at heart. When the 2020 pandemic started, I lost my job designing sets in Hollywood, CA. This adjustment initially began as a letdown, but then I saw an opportunity in the situation… A chance to restart my creative career, doing something that I truly love and believe in… making art and simultaneously bringing more joy into this world. From this mission, Dodo Studio was born.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Starting a business has been an incredible learning process. As a one-person operation, I wear all of the hats. Designer, fabricator, photographer, web developer, shipping, marketing, and selling at various markets around Southern California. Wearing all these hats can be difficult. Of all the things I have learned in this multidisciplinary position, the most valuable lesson learned is the ability and value in asking for help.
Creativity takes a community. From the manufacturers who produce raw materials to the designers and fabricators that turn materials into amazing products, to the customers who support and shop–a lot of people are involved. Accordingly, no creation occurs in an isolated bubble.
If you’re stuck in a creative rut and need some advice or could really use an extra hand shipping out orders. Friends and fans are always eager to support you. Expressing yourself is a very vulnerable and risky activity. You will be judged, or you could fail. But the people who you inspire want to see you succeed. Ask for help. You’ll never regret it.
There is a saying in the craft business world, “community over competition”. Simply put, all of the people you meet along your journey are inspiring companions if you have the right perspective.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As an artist, I’m particularly drawn to colors, shapes, and craftsmanship.
I feel visceral responses to certain color combinations; and when combined with excellently crafted textures and materials, I get a transcendent experience from art.
Throughout my artistic and professional career, I’ve always sought to produce work that translates these feelings to my viewers.
Over the years, I’ve done this again while wearing many different professional hats. I’ve worked as an arts educator, a studio assistant, a photographer, and as an art director and production designer for film projects. When I look at this journey, I’m most proud in my ability to adapt and learn new creative skills in order to express myself and pay my bills. It’s not easy to be a creative person and make ends meet. My versatility and eagerness to learn and grow have served my creative pursuits.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Creating with people I love.
The act of creating is always unique. Sharing a new experience with somebody is a very exciting, joyful, and intimate experience. When I took my first art class in college, I felt like I was in the most amazing ongoing group therapy session. I loved it.
I have a lot of feelings.
Contact Info:
- Email: heydodostudio@gmail.com
- Website: www.dodostudio.co
- Instagram: instagram.com/dodostudioco
Image Credits:
All images are (C) Jack Reed except the photo of me at my booth at a market. That photo is (c) Julie Shuford
