An Interview With Leah Petrucci

Let's get to know this Calgary, Alberta glass artist, Leah Petrucci, a little better. We sent her some questions and here are her thoughtful responses on her goals, where she finds inspiration, and the unexpected surprises when living as an artist. List three words that describe you. Busy, driven, thoughtful At what age did you know you wanted to be an artist? As a small child but I kept trying to do other things thinking I wouldn’t be able to make a living as a creative. Where or how do you look for inspiration? Outdoors, on hikes, plants, textures in nature. Also kids toys, children’s books, listening to and hearing their thoughts about the everyday. Why is it important for you to paint/build/create? It feels good and makes me happy. What do people find the most appealing about your work? I believe the playfulness of it.

Take us through the part of your artistic process that you love the most. Picking colors! What is something you're known to say while working on your art/craft? "Dang it!" Name something you've learned as an artist that was unexpected. That I only really get to work with my materials for a small portion of the time. The rest is communication, accounting, writing proposals, packaging etc. What is your ideal Sunday morning? Coffee and board games with my family. What genre, band, artist, or podcast do you like to listen to when you work? I love listening to audiobooks while I work. Historical fiction is my fav.

What other jobs do you do (outside of your art) and what do you love about it? I am a mom and love every moment of it. I love listening to what my kids have to say, I love their kindness and how funny they are and how they brighten up my day. Did you have another career before you became an artist? I worked in recreation as a programmer for the city of Calgary. What is one of your goals for 2024. To visit the Yukon and work with the team at Lumel studio. To spend time exploring there and to research the landscape for new work and inspiration. -----*-----h|h-----*----- Take a look at the interview on Instagram part 1 and part 2. Artist photo credit @klassen_photography Studio Rental @fascappleglass