Today we’d like to introduce you to Archana Iyer.
Hi Archana, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Art has been an integral part of my life growing up. And I would like to give all the credit to my mom for that. She herself is an amazing artist and enjoys embroidery and crochet. She encouraged me to participate in all types of creative activities growing up such as drawing, crafting, dancing, acting and singing, etc. Due to that, I developed a passion for the process of creating and appreciating art.
My clay sculpting journey started way back in 2013 when I came to USA. Polymer clay is an oven bake clay that I use currently in my projects. I stumbled upon this medium while visiting a craft store and knowing it could bake in a simple convection home oven intrigued me. I decided to give it a try and soon claying became an everyday activity for me. I would spend hours experimenting with it and learning through tutorials I found on the web. One day while browsing the internet I saw an image of miniature pancakes stacked and drizzled with syrup. They looked so realistic that I was amazed to know they were made out of polymer clay. It was so thrilling and exciting to see real food in its tiny form! And this led me to explore the world of miniature food. After making miniature waffles, tacos, and pizzas for a while I realized why not experiment with my own cultural Indian cuisine and that’s how I started making miniature Indian foods too like Dosas, Naan, and Curries, Biryanis, and even an assortment of traditional delicacies served on banana leaf.
Now I can happily say that sculpting with polymer clay is my passion and making realistic mini foods is my most favorite.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Life is always full of ups and downs. The toughest decision for me has been quitting a corporate career to pursue my passion. It definitely was not a smooth road but every day in my artist life brings with it some kind of learning and I believe failures are stepping stones to achieve and truly relish success. I have managed to overcome challenges to the best of my abilities. And it definitely would not have been possible without the support of my family.
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 a polymer clay artist and I create creations such as miniature food magnets, charms, customized gifts like photo frames, return gifts for festivities, wall decor, and jewelry. I specialize in making realistic mini foods that look just like real food but will fit in the palm of your hand.
Achieving realism while sculpting clay food is what excites me the most and I believe sets me apart from others. My biggest compliment is when people mistake my clay food as real food and are eager to me catering orders!!!
My miniature clay foods make one-of-a-kind souvenirs, magnets, and collectibles. They are perfect cute gifts for anyone who loves food.
My most proud moment was when I got a request to make a traditional banana leaf meal magnet from a daughter as a gift to her mother who was moving to USA from India permanently. The daughter said that my creations stir something ancestral in the soul! And that the gift would make her mom feel bit more at home. I felt so happy to hear that. Nothing beats the happiness and creative satisfaction I get each time when I see my art bringing joy into people’s lives. And I am so glad I have this opportunity to represent my culture through my miniature Indian clay food.
What are your plans for the future?
Polymer clay is a versatile medium and as an artist the creative possibilities are endless. I want to definitely explore more different techniques using this clay. I want to dabble into large-scale projects using polymer clay etc. I aspire to teach this art one day in the future to anyone wanting to learn sculpting miniature Indian food maybe in a tutorial form via a video or in the form of my own book! Here’s me hoping to continue following my passion and never stop learning.
Contact Info:
- Email: archana.clay@gmail.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/archcreations136/
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ArchClayCreations
