Oliver Elias

How and why did you become an artist?

In short, it was all I cared about in school and honestly, my ceramics class was the only class I was good at in high school. My peers were applying for college and declaring what major they wanted to pursue. Pottery was my passion in high school, I was selling my work, getting commissions and I knew there was potential to make a living selling functional pottery. I studied ceramics at Kansas City Art Institute and got my BFA.

What medium(s) do you work in?

Ceramics.

How long have you been working as an artist?

I have been immersed in the arts all my life but I have been a ceramic artist for 8 years.

What are some of your biggest inspirations as an artist?

Mid century modern design.

What is your connection to Northeast Minneapolis?

I was born and raised in Northeast Minneapolis. Growing up in the heart of the NE arts district and having both parents as artists, NE is very special to me. 

How does Art-A-Whirl benefit you as an artist?

Art-A-Whirl was my first time selling my work as an artist 8 years back, and I’ve been selling my work ever since. Art-A-Whirl has been a wonderful platform for artists of all mediums and expression to showcase their art. 

Any good stories or memories of an experience at Art-A-Whirl that you can share? What stands out?

I was born May 9th, 2000 and my first Art -A -Whirl was when I was 10 days old. My mother Lisa Elias, owner of Elias Metal Studio wasn’t going to let her newborn son stop her from opening her studio for Art-A-Whirl. I’ve had many great memories of the 24 consecutive years I’ve been a part of. Last year was a highlight cultivating and curating our event. We had 10 guest artists, a community mural, 15 bands. It was the highest attendance to date. 

What has being a NEMAA member meant to you? What do you value most about membership?

NEMAA is a community I have found some great opportunities from the weekly email, especially applying to art fairs. 

What do you wish more people knew about the arts scene in Northeast Minneapolis?

It’s one of, if not the best arts scenes around. 

Art-A-Whirl and NEMAA turn 30 years old in 2025. Can you believe it? What changes have you witnessed?

Elias Metal studio was one of the first studios to open its doors for Art-A-Whirl 30 years ago. Live music had always been a way to draw attention to the public in hopes to sell art. As Art-A-Whirl and Northeast has grown in popularity, live music and drinks seems to be the only reason the public comes. It’s a double edged sword, I love seeing Art-A-Whirl becoming such a popular event but it’s more of a party than a fine art event. Art-A-Whirl is my absolute favorite weekend of the year and it always will be.

Why is art important in our community?

Without art, a community can be stale and boring. Art brings community together through shared experiences.

Can you imagine a world WITHOUT the arts community in Northeast Minneapolis? How would the community be different?

I can’t imagine it no, simply I wouldn’t be living in NE or have my studio here. NE would just be another part of town, high rise apartments, no character.

What are your hopes and dreams for Art-A-Whirl, NEMAA, and/or the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District in the next 30 years?

That the arts district stays as vibrant and stable as it is today.

If you could make one change in Northeast Minneapolis, no matter the cost, what would it be?

Affordable housing and studios for artists.