Today we’d like to introduce you to Lily Kline.
Hi Lily, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I took a 6 week crash course in welding through Women Who Weld in 2018. My work was unstable prior to the course and welding seemed like it would lead to consistent workflow while simultaneously opening a new chapter for me artistically. Upon completing the program I got a job within the next week and continued working for a handful of fabrication shops over the following 5 or so years. As I gained experience I was beginning to realize what skills felt important to prioritize. I was hired into positions that offered the opportunities to refine these skills, focusing on fine furniture and more detailed work opposed to industrial manufacturing.
By the end of 2022 I established Umbel Studio in Core City and quickly transitioned into taking custom commissions on my own. My work continues to evolve through each commission and I am excited to incorporate new concepts and styles that my business can offer clients.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
At the very beginning it felt quite smooth. This is because I hit the ground running with a big project to start. The toughest part might be learning the actual business side of things, not necessarily the fabrication – although each job is full of new lessons. There is a fair amount of fabricators in this city and the support from that community makes a notable difference. I think this is not an easy industry to immerse oneself in, let alone being a woman running it by myself, but having people willing to be a sounding board alleviates some of the crazy-making aspects of the work.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Most of my metal career has been larger architectural commissions, like steel frame bars for cafes, residential stairs and railings, shelving, and furniture. I’m comfortable working with most metals -aluminum, brass, stainless- which lends me more specialized projects. Lately, though, I’m allowing myself to express a more personal style and design. It’s exciting to extend my range to smaller pieces like intricate brass hardware and jewelry. This is a new chapter that’s mostly self-taught, so I’m trying to embrace the freedom I have in this while drawing from a sentimental relationship with objects and artifacts. I don’t know many people that are focused on making items that are like relics for your home, ones with which you interact daily and are also designed for practical purposes. My grandfather was compelled by the same alloys, finding sanctuary in his metal shop, and I see myself going down a similar path.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
My door is open to collaborations! Whether it is something like stainless steel kitchen cabinets or specifically artwork that involves a variety of mediums. A major part of this work is the constant evolution of skills and unknowns. Taking on that journey with another creative is very stimulating. An individual might not consider themself an artist but has an idea of something they’d like to see come to fruition, those are collaborations I love as well. I’ve had a lot of experience working one on one with architects, designers and clients. This is always a unique interaction that I welcome and gain so much from.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.umbel-studio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umbelstudio/
