Experience Cortland will be featuring a Cortland County artist at the Visitors Center throughout the year. The program was developed to showcase local artwork and photography to travelers and locals in hopes of them taking a piece of Cortland County home. Feel free to stop by during regular business hours to view the work or at her shop, Elfcup Boutique, at 136 Main Street.
Local artist and shop owner Sam Daniels has a knack for capturing sunshine and turning it into rainbows. This Cortland native creates her craft using a combination of stained glass, resin, found objects, and dried florals. Each piece is one of a kind, ensuring as soon as you hang it, your window transforms into a frame for a unique work of art. We asked Sam to take a few minutes to answer ten questions about her art and the community she calls home.
Where do you take your inspiration from?
I take inspiration from all around me! Especially through nature and my antique collection.
Where do you create your art?
I find myself creating most of my art in my grandfather’s workshop (thanks, Grandpa!) and at my boutique when I have some downtime.
Who is your greatest influence?
I have so many- but one of my favorites is the French fashion illustrator Erté! I collect all of his work!
What is your favorite tool/material? What can you just not live without, in your creative space?
Lately, I’ve been experimenting with dried flowers from my garden. And I could never live without my soldering station!
What is your favorite color?
Green definitely. Or any of the ugly 1970s earth-tone colors.
What are your current/future projects?
If I had more time, I‘d love to make more large-scale stained glass panels. They’re so beautiful!
If your art was a food, what would it be?
Mushrooms, of course!
What is your favorite activity in Cortland County?
I really love winter walks in the country and decorating for the holidays!
What do you feel is Cortland County’s best-kept secret?
Cinch Art Space! They house so many talented artists and offer classes too!
Describe Cortland County in three words:
Supportive, Historical & Evolving
Share your favorite Cortland County art with us for a chance to be featured!
Tag @experiencecortland and use hashtag #experiencecortland.