Creativity and an eye for style with a strong ability to make things stand out and shine are just a few of the qualities needed to be successful in the fashion and art world. Growing up in Gary, Ind., with both parents teaching in the arts, Marissa Kendrick has always been in immersed in the fashion and art world, and it seemed like something that would come natural for her. Kendrick, 21, says she has always been into oil painting, dance, fashion and art in general, and her curiosity to explore more in the arts was what helped her decide to leave The Art Institute—after majoring in fashion and marketing for only one year—to come to Columbia College Chicago to pursue art and design with a focus in fashion.
Kendrick and her jewelry line—Deleay Lashay—which, according to its website, “is inspired by timeless pop art prints and retro shapes; beautiful handmade painted pieces created just for you! The purpose of our Deleay Lashay collection is to make every woman feel Important! The line is not only beautiful but affordable! Every individual has their own style that stands out and shines,” are a forced to be reckoned with. Watch out, Columbia, because Deleay Lashay and Kendrick are taking the world by storm!
Jackson Thomas: How did you first hear about Columbia?
Marissa Kendrick: I first heard about Columbia when I was in high school and [received] something in the mail, so I checked it out. I wanted to go to Columbia because it gave me a chance to explore all the arts and not just one, and that was perfect for me!
JT: What program are you pursuing at Columbia, and can you tell me why you chose it? What makes you passionate about your major?
MK: I chose to be a art and design major because it didn’t limited me from learning different avenues of art. The main thing that makes me passionate about my work is that I can pick which classes best fit me.
JT: Can you tell me about some of your upcoming projects, and what can we expect to see in the future?
MK: I have so many projects I’m working on! I have my own jewelry business I am very passionate about, and I put my whole heart in it. I have a few commercials coming out, I’ve done three of my own jewelry events that have constantly been growing, I have been in the Columbia store and a few art galleries (in the Elephant Room), just to name one. Right now I am in the mist of completing my press kit and getting featured in some known magazines in Chicago and New York. I am also working on another Deleay Lashay event!
JT: What was the defining factor that made you realize Columbia was the school for you?
MK: The defining factors that made me know Columbia was for me was the fact that there were so many different kinds of people who attend.
JT: How did you become involved with Deleay Lashay jewelry, and what do you do? What is the experience like making jewelry, designing jewelry, hosting events for jewelry collections, etc.?
MK: My middle name is Deleay Lashay, and it means “determined lady.” Deleay Lashay is a jewelry line inspired by timeless pop art prints, retro shapes and beautiful handmade painted pieces. Making and creating is one thing, but the meaning behind each piece is most important and how it makes you feel wearing is another thing. Each piece means something different, and the whole line is divided into three different collections: Bossy, Essence and Conversation Piece. Hosting events is very fun. It’s amazing what you can do with jewelry with purpose.
JT: What are you most looking forward to when you receive your degree from Columbia?
MK: When I receive my degree from Columbia, I look forward to putting to use everything I’ve learned!
JT: Who inspires you and why?
MK: Both of my parents inspire me the most! They are both very talented people, and I learn from them all the time. I’ve been blessed to have a piece of each of them. My mother is a seamtress and art teacher, and my father is a play writer, minster of music and music teacher, and together they are nothing but perfection!
JT: What’s next after Columbia? What is your dream job, and what would you like to do with your degree?
MK: The sky is the limited after Columbia, and my dream is to further Deleay Lashay!
Visit http://deleaylashay.com/ to check out more from Marissa’s jewelry line!