Layl McDill of Clay Squared to Infinity

Elk Cares about Carrying Capacity

What inspired you to become an artist?

I've been told that at age 2 I declared I wanted to be an artist and a mom.  I didn't really know how a person could actually grow up to be an artist so in high school I decided I would get a degree in illustration and write and illustrate children's books.  But in art school in Columbus, Ohio I did my first art fair and I found that people would just buy what I made.  That is when I realized I wanted to be a full time self employed artist and 32 years later I'm still doing just that.  And by the way I am a mom of two grown daughters!

What mediums do you primarily work with, and why do you prefer them?

I have been working with mixed media and found objects for much of my 32 years but for many years I was primarily polymer clay with just a bit of mixed media.  In the last 6 years I have expanded back into more found objects and mixed media.  Polymer clay is an oven baked clay which I just love because it's solid color right in your hands with endless possibilities but it is a plastic which isn't great for the environment so I like to try to use found objects that would normally be discarded in my art to offset this negative issue.  All of this becomes a talking point about use of materials and our impact on the earth when people engage with my art. 

How does the local community influence your art? 

It has always been important to me not to create in a vacuum.  For over 25 years I have had a studio that was open to the public 6 days a week.  I love to have people come in and see what I am working on, even sit and play with my piles of scrap clay or bring in their own creations to play alongside me.  I am a serial volunteer that is involved in Art to Change the World and The Polymer Clay Guild of MN and other arts organizations.  Teaching my art form is also a very important part of my creation process.  I need to be around other creatives to thrive and I love to share the love of creating with others. 

Are there any upcoming exhibitions or shows we should know about?

My work is in several group exhibits in November and December including the Phipps Center for the Arts Members show in Hudson, WI, "Extremely Minnesota" at the Robbin Gallery in Robbinsdale and Artistry Member show in Bloomington MN.  Plus you can always find my work at the Clay Squared Gallery in the Flux Arts Building on the corner of Monroe and Lowry. 

Is there a particular project or idea you dream of pursuing someday?

I have been making life size and larger than life animals in the past few years using found objects and polymer clay.  I have an idea for a giant polar bear- in my mind it's 20 feet tall... I don't know if I can or even should pursue this concept but who knows maybe it will happen if the right opportunity and space appears. 

How can readers find more about your work (social media, website, etc.)?

You can find me on all social media platforms under @laylmcdill and my website is www.laylmcdill.com

Abby Drach of Kuvetta Athletic

Can you tell us about your artistic journey and how you got started?

Fashion has always been a passion of mine. I have been drawing clothes ever since I have had crayons in my hand. Growing up in a creative household—my mom and siblings are also artistic—there was never a shortage of art supplies around. While I always knew I wanted to start my own business, I initially thought I’d work for someone else or pursue professional Nordic skiing before launching a career. But after graduating from Dartmouth College in 2020, with the world feeling uncertain, I decided I had nothing to lose by starting my own business right away.I began by selling face masks on Etsy. After seeing some success and with the pandemic hopefully nearing its end, I shifted my focus to my true passion: designing activewear. 

In the spring of 2021, I launched Kuvetta Athletic, my line of athletic apparel. As a Nordic skier with muscular quads and strong lats, I often struggled to find clothing that fit my body, without feeling pressured to conform to the leaner endurance athlete standard. I realized I wasn’t alone—many women face the same frustrations. From Olympic skiers and editors at Outside Magazine to everyday endurance athletes, I’ve connected with women who share this experience and want apparel that fits their athletic body.

At Kuvetta Athletic, we focus on creating functional, inclusive activewear. Our sports bras come in various top and band sizes to accommodate different body types, whether you're more or less busty or have a bigger or smaller ribcage. Our spandex shorts feature a grip strip along the bottom hem to prevent riding up, with a longer length between the thighs to prevent chafing and shorter on the sides so you still look cute. 

Now, three years into the business, we’re on a mission to revolutionize athletic clothing with a focus on better fit, sustainability, and ethical production. All our products are made right here in Northeast Minneapolis, using low-waste fabric practices and responsibly sourced materials.Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Can you walk us through your creative process?

My creative process is definitely a bit chaotic and far from linear. I love visiting clothing stores to explore both streetwear and athletic pieces to see what’s trending in terms of silhouettes, colors, and overall style. This helps spark new ideas and inspiration. I’m especially drawn to incorporating prints into my activewear, as it's not something you see as often, and it helps my designs stand out. When I come across a fabric with a unique, fun print, it often inspires me to create a new piece around it.

I also have a passion for sewing beyond just production work. Personal sewing projects give me a chance to experiment with new style lines and construction techniques that I eventually incorporate into my activewear collections. In fact, many of my personal creations eventually evolve into collection pieces after I’ve tested the design and, hopefully, received some positive feedback when I wear them out!

Are there any local artists or organizations that inspire you?

I draw inspiration from everyone in the Northeast artist community, especially my fellow Holland Artists. Being surrounded by creatives who work in diverse mediums, styles, and businesses is incredibly motivating. There’s always someone pushing the boundaries in ways I never thought possible.

Each individual brings unique talents to their craft, and witnessing their creative processes can be truly magical. For example, my studio neighbor Brooke is an incredible painter who merges feminism and environmentalism. Watching her transform paint into captivating worlds is nothing short of amazing. Even with my closer insight into her work, I’m in awe of her remarkable skill.

As a people person, I value being in an artist building filled with other creatives. It allows us to bounce ideas off one another and seek advice on the challenges we face in our crafts and businesses. 

Are there any upcoming exhibitions or shows we should know about?

On Saturday, October 26th, from 12 PM to 5 PM, Holland Arts East and West will host a fall open studio event. This is a great opportunity to explore the buildings, gain insight into the artists’ creative processes, and even take home some of their artwork!

How do you think art contributes to our community?

Art truly embodies the soul of the Northeast community. The artist buildings scattered throughout the area serve as a unifying thread, pun intended, connecting the diverse facets of Northeast together. When I attended my first Art-a-Whirl in 2022, I was surprised to discover that I was living in the heart of a vibrant artist community, surrounded by buildings where so many talented creatives worked. 

Being part of an artist building in Northeast while also residing here has deepened my connection to the larger community. Many local coffee shops showcase artwork from local artists, further enhancing that sense of belonging.

Northeast also features a higher concentration of independently owned businesses compared to other parts of Minneapolis, a testament to its thriving artist community. This vibrant network nurtures an eclectic culture and enriches the area, making it even more dynamic as you engage with this expansive creative ecosystem.

How can local residents support artists in our community?

Supporting local artists goes beyond just purchasing their artwork. While buying art is a wonderful way to contribute, there are numerous impactful actions you can take that don’t cost anything. Attending community events featuring local artists—often just a short walk from your home—means a great deal to those showcasing their work. Engaging with artists on social media by commenting, sharing, and reposting their content also makes a significant difference. Furthermore, recommending local artists to friends and family in need of products or services is incredibly beneficial.

Additionally, assisting artists in accessing resources and connections is essential. Many artists work independently and face unique challenges in managing their businesses. With over 1,400 artists in Northeast, each offering their own distinct vision, your participation can help cultivate a vibrant creative community. By showing up, engaging, and spreading the word, you play a crucial role in supporting and sustaining our local artists.