Artist in Residence: Nathan Skrove
Here at Sullivans, we have an incredible team filled with a lot of prolific talent. Our Artist in Residence blog series introduces our creators and their inspiration. Get an insider’s view of how Sullivans creates amazing, quality products that you can count on. And you never know, reading about their processes and passions might just spark your own ideas!
Meet Nathan Skrove (pronounced “Skrow-vee”)! He is the Vice President of Product Development and Design here at Sullivans, and we are excited to feature him in our Artist in Residence series.
Q. How long have you been creating?
A. Ever since I was 13 years old. I started out designing flocked centerpieces in my aunt's flower shop and the rest is history. I’ve been designing and developing products in this industry for over 25 years.
Q. How long have you been with Sullivans?
A. I’ve been with Sullivans for two and a half years.
Q. What is your favorite thing about Sullivans?
A. The attitude that anything is possible and that everyone works together to create an excellent product and customer experience.
Q. Describe a typical day for you.
A. Generally, my morning is filled with emails from China and India with questions on design, product changes and new innovation offers from factories. Then I move on to developing artwork concepts, brainstorming ideas, and selecting items that become part of our line.
Q. How do you get your inspiration for new products?
A. World trends are key. We take color inspiration from Pantone, patterns and finish techniques from fashion and home furnishings. Social media sites like Pinterest, Etsy, and Instagram are also important to keep up with what is trending in the market. International shows like Maison Object in Paris offer great trend information.
Q. What is your favorite thing to create?
A. Containers, because every time I design a container, I envision what I would put in it and how I would decorate with it.
Q. What is your favorite color?
A. Gray - because anything goes with it.
Q. What is your “creative outlet” outside of work?
A. Gardening is my favorite. Watching things grow makes my heart happy!
Q. Who are the people behind the artist? Who helps you, inspires you, etc.?
A. We have many people in our company who help support what I do. One of my favorite quotes is “There is no such thing as a self-made man. You will reach your goals only with the help of others.”
Q. If you could create anything, what would it be?
A. That is a tough question, honestly, I love creating it all, but most importantly I love creating items that make people feel happy and fulfilled.
Q. What is your favorite Sullivans product or collection currently?
A. The Frosted Fern collection. It's selling really well and has so many uses. I love how it drapes when hung and how it cascades when used on a tabletop or a mantel. It feels like a frosty winter day in the garden.
Check back soon for our next edition of Artist in Residence to learn more about the masters of inspiration behind our home decor products and collections.
