MAKER STORIES
The people behind the made.
Behind every handmade item in Cincinnati is a person who took a leap and kept taking them. These are their stories: how they started, how they’re growing, and where they’re headed next, whether that’s a second storefront or their first production run. Real makers, in their own words.
Dawn Grady
Jewelry Designer
Dawn Grady does everything with intention. The jewelry maker and business owner sat down with Cincy Makers Collaborative this past summer to discuss her journey as a creative in Cincinnati, and she shared her transition from Marketing Director to Entrepreneur/Jewelry Designer, as well as her future goals to upscale her business.
Aly Stacy
Slow Fashion + Boutique Owner
Cincy Makers Collaborative sat down for a Zoom conversation with Founder/Director of The Collective, Aly Stacy, to discuss her work as an artist and entrepreneur, covering her journey as self-taught clothing maker with a slow fashion brand, to managing a gallery/storefront with over 180 artists.
Pi Oudomsouk
Sculptor
Cincinnati-based sculptor and fabricator Amphay (Pi) Oudomsouk is a soft-spoken creative. He met with this CMC author at his studio in Camp Washington in the 2701SG building off of Spring Grove to share more about his experience as a Maker in Cincinnati, and the journey he has had so far.
Scottie Bellissemo
Artist, Woodworker, Teacher
Artist and professional wood worker, Scott (“Scottie”) Bellissemo sat down with this writer at Wave Pool in Camp Washington, where he built and maintains the Wood Shop to share some of the challenges and high points of his creative journey as a Maker in Cincinnati.