Maker builds handmade business into full-time job
Dec. 3, 2021
Handcrafted acrylic paintings featuring unique subjects, assemblage art and dioramas are just some of the one-of-a-kind work that emerges when Laura Kerkvilet begins creating.
The owner of Mimsy Mountain Creations, Kerkvilet has always enjoyed painting, drawing and transforming common objects into something that is unique and original, she said.
“I started Mimsy Mountain Creations two years ago when I decided to make creating art my full-time job,” Kerkvilet said.
The name “Mimsy Mountain” is meant to evoke a “magical place” in her heart where she envisions her creative work.
For Kerkvilet, new ideas come easily, which sometimes makes it difficult to decide on her next project, she said.
“I have an art studio on my acreage with a collection of things I’ve compiled over the years,” Kerkvilet said. “(This makes) planning new creations very exciting.”
She primarily sells at Stacey’s Vintage-Art-Boutique near Tea but also will be one of about 50 makers selling work at this week’s 605 Made Holiday Market.
Mimsy Mountain Creations will have a variety of acrylic paintings, decorated sketchbooks and journals, home decor, dioramas and unique gifts for both children and adults.
The 605 Made Holiday Market is free and open frrom 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday in the underground parking garage of Cherapa Place. The event is co-organized by Knotty Gnome Variety & Salvage and SiouxFalls.Business and sponsored by The First National Bank in Sioux Falls and Dow Rummel Village.
Kerkvilet is appreciative of the help that she has received as she has grown Mimsy Mountain, she said.
“I’m still learning the business, but I am happy with the direction I’m going,” she said.
