Meet Morgan Ausborn | Polymer Clay Artist & Founder of Evil Twin Clay Co

We had the good fortune of connecting with Morgan Ausborn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Morgan, why did you pursue a creative career?
I always knew from a very young age that no matter what, I had to be an artist! Growing up I dabbled in varies mediums of art such as drawing, pastels, painting, watercolors, and color pencils. It wasn’t until I became much older that I discovered how to create polymer clay earrings. I love creating art that folks can wear on their face! It’s truly the best feeling in the world when I see my art on ears out in the streets. I never gave up on my passion to become an artist and sometimes it takes longer than you think to find that passion. Don’t give up!

Throughout my upbringing, I was encouraged to have a regular job with a regular income and to have a regular life. The regular jobs that I’ve had in the past, I was always the one people looked at for new ideas, or making something look amazing. Although that kind of dependency felt great, I wasn’t doing what I wanted creatively. Finding your passion and running with it feels liberating. I don’t have to feel like I’m working because I’m creating these earrings in my own style to share with folks who will love and appreciate every detail that goes into it.

I felt like had to pursue a creative career because I knew that if I didn’t take a risk, that I would never be truly happy. My favorite quote has always been and forever will be an inspiration to me.

“Whatever you do, the only secret is to believe in it and satisfy yourself. Don’t do it for anyone else.” – Keith Haring

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
It took some time to find my one true medium, polymer clay! I learned about making polymer clay earrings during the pandemic and thought I’d take a swing at it. I loved doing it so much that I kept having dreams at night of making them. I was obsessed! I knew I had found my passion!

Falling in love with my new medium during the pandemic wasn’t easy and caused some problems. I wasn’t able to purchase clay off the shelf. I had to purchase clay and the supplies online which isn’t always reliable and definitely more expensive. I figured out pretty quickly that I could use tools and random items around the house to create unique textures. Although I’m able to easily purchase clay off a shelf today, the inventory for clay at craft stores, is still inconsistent and unpredictable. But with the knowledge of color theory, I’m able to create most of the colors I need.

I think what sets me apart from other polymer clay artists is my unique style and personality. I’ve always rebelled against what is trendy but I try to do is to take that trend and put my own twist to it. I like to feel like I’ve invented new styles! What I do is my life and my passion and for some it’s more of a hobby or side hustle.

Evil Twin Clay Co has made me the artist that I’ve always wanted to be. And you may wonder about the origin of the name. I am a twin and we are fraternal but most people would argue otherwise. I’m actually not an evil person at all! I’m full of compassion and love for everyone! I’m evil in the sense that you find me so sweet and charming that you can’t help but to purchase all of my handmade goodies! I’m proud of myself and the business and it will continue to grow as long as I’m alive and happy!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Monday: We would definitely go to Kenny’s Alley in Underground Atlanta and see a random show. It’s fun to open yourself up to new music that you might not have considered listening to before. I’ve found various musicians that way! Then we’d go to R. Thomas Deluxe Grill and eat some good organic food.

Tuesday:
Eat at The Flying Biscuit at one of their many locations! Depending on the location I would go thrifting. Furkids is my favorite thrift store and it benefits animals when you make a purchase!

Wednesday:
I’d definitely want to go to the High Museum and get inspired. And then go to Piedmont Park and have a nice walk and talk about art.

Thursday:
We’d spend the day at Little Five Points and do some major thrifting again! Junk Man’s Daughter and Rag-O-Rama just to name a few. I’d eat at The Vortex to enjoy some good funnel cake fries.

Friday:
We’d go catch a show at The Earl in East Atlanta and then sit at the bar and smoke cigarettes because you can do that inside!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Tyler Ausborn: Peachy Knees He makes the most chill music that I listen to while I make my polymer clay creations. Helps me soothe my mind and focus on my task!

Jordan Jarriel: Tamed by Jojo
Her ability to tame my hair is incredible! She’s been doing hair her entire life and it’s something she’s never given up on!

Sara Mariah: Modern Day Shield Maiden. She is a leather crafter and is so incredibly talented at what she does! Her attention to detail and her patience in the process is inspiring!

Hannah McClain: Hannah McClain Design
Hannah has always encouraged me to be creative and to never give up on my passions. She is my greatest artist friend! She makes the cutest illustrations and is fantastic in graphic design.

Instagram: @eviltwinclayco

Facebook: @eviltwinclayco

Image Credits
Carson Lee Photography