Let's Chat With: Ectogasm + A Giveaway



It's been far too long since I've put up a "Let's Chat With" post, my Q&A series with some of my favorite Etsy shops. I'm pleased to say that I'm bringing it back with a vengeance and will be sharing a few interviews in the upcoming weeks. I'm kicking it off with one of my absolute favorite makers that I've recently become acquainted with, Raeha of Ectogasm. Raeha makes this amazing"Brains are the New Tits" pin that I featured in a post recently and am wearing in these photos. She's also being kind enough to give one of her pieces away to one of you! Read about what a badass Raeha is below and enter the giveaway at the bottom the post:

Q: How and when did Ectogasm start?
Raeha: Nine months ago, I was working a dead end retail job I hated. I knew I needed to stop wasting time and get out so I could do the thing I really wanted to do. And that was to make a living as an artist. So, I decided I'd risk a pay cut (and even failure) to pursue my own business. It felt a bit like a kamikaze move -- some days it still does -- but I needed to do it.
In August I opened my Etsy shop. Soon after that, I expanded to Amazon, then my own website. It's been great!

Did you always intend for for your items to have a feminism focus?
When I started Ectogasm, I wanted to do more than just add to the massive, often mindless market of goods out there. I am an artist first, so having a message was important to me. The feminist angle started right from the beginning. It's a cause that effects us every day. And, since it lets me get a bit sassy with my products, it's a fun one to pursue!


What is it about creating pins that you love?
I love that I get a to draw for people everyday. The fact that I can make my living like this way still blows my mind. I'm very grateful to my fans.

How would you describe the Ectogasm customer?
The Ectogasm customer is socially conscious and not afraid to stand out from the crowd. In fact, they love standing out! They're people who want to make a difference and will do just that with a sense of humor. In my experience, they're kind, wonderful customers. 

What are some of your favorite items in your store?
This is a hard question! 
I recently made a Scully and Mulder (from X Files) pin set, which I'm in love with. Scully's a total badass. Love her.  Lately I've been wearing a "Future Ghost" Banner pin because it cracks me up. I'm kind of morbid. The "Little But Fierce" pin will probably always be my favourite, though.  It describes who I strive to be! 


Dress, oxfords: Modcloth, Jacket: Thrifted, Pin: c/o Ectogasm

Why do you think it's important for people to support businesses that promote female empowerment such as yours?
There's so many awful businesses out there that use women as objects to market products that are too shitty to sell on their own (sorry for the language, I'm getting passionate!) It hurts all of us. I like to think that, with Ectogasm, I'm fighting back in a small way. And we all can fight back. There's the phrase "every dollar is a vote". When you buy from businesses that promote female empowerment, you're casting your vote. 

Do you have any exciting plans or items in the works that people can look forward to?
Yes! I'm always trying to grow Ectogasm. Right now, I'm learning to 3D model. The plan is to make metal products. Rings, necklaces, earrings, etc. Punk fashion will be a big inspiration for that, so you can expect some seriously badass jewelry. Our slogan will be something like "be more than beautiful. Be dangerous." Haha!


Raeha is giving away one jewelry item (necklace, pair of earrings, or pin) of your choice! Just enter through the Rafflecopter widget below. This giveaway is open until midnight on 04/11 and is open to U.S. readers only. Good luck!


7 comments

  1. Ah, I love hearing about artists turned jewelry makers or clothing designers. Such a nice little interview!

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  2. How inspiring! Damn the man! ;)

    Jamie
    www.sweetteasalvage.com

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  3. Great interview to read. It was really inspiring!

    a small bit | bloglovin | twitter | latest post

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  4. So fun to see this series again

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  5. Oh man, the cactus brooch's are definitely my favorite. Theyre adorable!

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  6. These are super cute! I am excited to see the 3D designs she talks about too.

    http://blog.breadandrosesvintage.com

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  7. Oh my gosh I am in love with the Crystal Geometric Gem Pin Pack of 4, Pastel Pink Purple White Green, Button Badge Patch Brooch

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