Ignore The Qualifications and Go For It: Gwynne Rukenbrod Smith
In the 69th episode of Perceived Value, host Sarah Rachel Brown shares an interview she recorded while visiting Asheville, NC, in January of 2023. Sarah reconnected with her friend and creative business coach, Gwynne Rukenbrod Smith, whom she met years ago when Gwynne was the executive director of the Society of North American Goldsmiths, and Sarah was a new member attending her first SNAG conference.
The two creatives sat down and discussed the importance of not letting qualifications get in the way of going for the jobs and opportunities you want, being creative but not in the making sense, taking advantage of resources at your job to grow your skills and certifications, and finding the value in getting terminated from a job.
Gwynne Rukenbrod Smith specializes in craft community engagement, working at the intersection of craft and entrepreneurship. Originally trained as a hot glass artist, Gwynne ran a glass business for 7 years before moving solidly into the arts administration side of the craft field.
Gwynne has served as the first Fine Craft Curator for Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, the Executive Director for the International Society of Glass Beadmakers, HandMade in America, and the Society of North American Goldsmith (SNAG).
She has worked with both rural and urban communities teaching her professional development and entrepreneurship workshops across the country over the last 20 years. Gwynne believes in helping artists and small business owners expand their markets and create sustainable businesses. Gwynne currently serves the Senior Director of Programs and Partnerships for the American Craft Council and as a business coach for creative based businesses. Gwynne lives in Asheville, NC with her husband and three dogs.
Instagram: @craftgrrl
