Sarah Hormanski

Where are you originally from and how did you hear about MCAD?

I'm from Chaska, Minnesota, a town about 35 minutes South of Minneapolis. I heard about MCAD through my high school college director. 

How do you feel about the Twin Cities?

The Twin Cities will forever be my home. Some of my favorite people are there, not to mention the culture is special. But ultimately has a lot of work to do. 

Why did you choose the bachelor of science program?

I was having a hard time finding a focus in the bachelor of fine arts program. A friend of mine who was in the bachelor of science program had told me about how you can be creative through an entrepreneurial lens and that won me over.

Favorite project you worked on for a client?

My group worked on these Sew-it-Yourself Kits with Winsome Goods, a sustainable and ethical clothing studio in Minneapolis. By nature, my hands go to sewing when I create so this project was the dream. 

Briefly describe at least one of your internships.

I interned with Winsome Goods, where I got to sew garments, digitalize patterns, learn how a small business is run, and ultimately work with some pretty amazing creatives. 

What advice do you have for current MCAD students?

Experience as much as you can! go to that art show, party, weird event—an experience is an experience and it's what continues to fuel me. 

Best thing you ever got/saw on the MCAD free shelf?

Ha! I found the OG Gray's Anatomy textbook and I still have it to this day.

Is there anything you wish you knew when you were an MCAD student?

You don't have to have your career all figured out by the time you graduate. Focus on what makes you happy. Don't forget to enjoy life outside of homework and classes—make some memories (good and bad).

Did MCAD prepare you for life after graduation? In what way?

MCAD taught me that when life throws you curveballs, you make it work. And that there are so many ways to be creative in this world. 

How have things changed since graduating? Is there anything you miss about being a student at MCAD? 

I moved to a new city (Chicago) and gained a new perspective on business and life. I focus more on how to live in the moment and not on the end goal. I miss the art classes and some of the faculty (especially Abbi Allan—she's the best). 

Name your biggest takeaway from MCAD and the bachelor of science program.

EMPATHY! If you don't have empathy for people, you will have a hard time working in any industry, especially as an entrepreneur. 

Describe what you do for work and how you feel about it.

I'm a part-time barista and part-time artist and activist. I love making coffee for people, it's great being able to be a part of someone's day and I've networked with hundreds of people over the years and created community through rich conversations and a cup of coffee. After I clock out from being a barista, I go to my second job which consists of either working on art projects, community events, or investing in mutual aid. I've found support and community standing in both of these roles and I couldn't be happier. 

How did you get your job? 

Atmos Coffee was getting ready to open in December and a friend of mine connected me to owners Antoine and Arianna Scott. I interviewed with them and we vibed right away. As for being an artist, I've always created but it wasn't until this last year that I started to apply my art more into mutual aid/community spaces.

What inspires you/your work?

People and their experiences.

How do you network yourself and your art?

I network through mutual aid work and community events. There's always something happening (even during a pandemic).

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

The community I've created over the years. I've spent TIME on networking, networking, networking and now I can say I have a solid community to fall back on whenever I need support or my creative well filled again :-).

Any tips for artists at the beginning of their creative careers? 

Give yourself some breathing room. There will be lots of pressure from outside forces so take lots of breaks from applying to jobs. I promise the "big picture" will come together over time. Focus on your mental health and taking care of yourself first and always. 

Current obsession?

Tiny things—especially tiny hot sauces.