Meet Paul Gruer - Lucas McKearn Designer

Link to News Story: https://boldjourney.com/meet-paul-gruer/

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Paul Gruer. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Paul below.

Paul, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

Being fortunate enough to live in New Orleans, especially the French Quarter i just have to walk out of my front door to be inspired! The culture, architecture, and people are constant sources of inspiration. One of my favorite things to do is walk down Royal street looking into the windows of the art galleries and antique shops. The current and the past all curated into a few blocks. Ending up at the Carousel Bar at the venerable Monteleone Hotel. An actual spinning carousel! It has inspired a number of custom lighting pieces. My artist statement is “I have always been inspired by the city of New Orleans. The patina of age has worked its way into the finishes of my work. Like the city… Sophisticated, Fun and always a little off center.” I feel fortunate to have been able to do what I love in such an amazing city! I never take it for granted.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

In my Bywater Studio I build one of a kind lamps, sconces, chandeliers and small sculptures. All inspired by the amazing city of New Orleans. It all started when as a Gallery Director and jewelry designer. A client walked into the gallery and told me she was building a new home. She held ip one of my earrings and said “ I want 4 chandeliers that look like this.” I told her I had never made a. Chandelier to which she responded “Well… You had better get to work!” So I did. Much to my surprise they were a hit. It took off from there.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

I am completely self taught. I had always been intrigued by the processes of other artists and their medium and their diligence to their vision. This was a great starting point. Ironically when designing and building pieces my naivety was a huge asset. I never thought in terms of “ Will people like this?” I built what inspired me and was surprised to know other people responded to my vision and how I saw things.

Tell us what your ideal client would be like?

My ideal client is someone that really responds to my work. The way I see things and wants me to create something one of a kind especially for them. It is a great thrill to know that something I have made becomes a part of someone else’s life. That I was invited into their homes.

Instagram: Paulgruerdesignstudio_nola
Facebook: Paul Gruer design studio