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

Hi sasha, what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by materials, mediums, and process. I am drawn to bright colors and bold imagery of the pop art era. I create large scale, soft sculptures and installations that are based in the process of manipulating a material and utilizing multiple disciplines. I draw inspiration from artists such as, Yayoi Kusama, Alexandria Massey, Herb Williams and Claes Oldenburg.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a interdisciplinary artist who enjoys working with a multitude of different mediums and techniques. I primarily work with secondhand, sustainably sourced, soft materials. I use fiberous materials to create large scale installations or works of sculpture. I also incorporate crochet techniques into my works of sculpture and printmaking. I like experimenting with different crochet stitches and free hand patterns to create my work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would for sure take them for a walk along the belt line (mainly to see all the dogs). There are so many unique shops along the way, as well as, some atlanta land marks like Krog and Ponce Markets. I would take them to a pop up by Market Hugs and maybe to somewhere cool to eat like Ruby Chows.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a shoutout to the entirety of the printmaking department at SCAD Atlanta. While I am a sculpture major, all of my friends, peers and staff in the printmaking department are so supportive. Anytime I have an idea that I want an opinion on or honest feedback of something I have created – I will always pop over to the studio for constructive critique or to just hangout with my friends.

Instagram: @supercooolgrandpa

Image Credits
artist photo – Antonia Cordo
“WORKER” (yarn man photo) – Lia Manfredi

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.