Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheri Ruiz.
Sheri, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
About five years ago, I made the decision to leave my career in the golf industry, where I worked as a private club buyer and merchandiser, to pursue my art full time.
As I built my practice, I became part of The Artisans Market at Local by Design in Annapolis, where I rent studio space and work alongside a community of artists and artisans. That environment—and my background in retail and merchandising—deepened my understanding of how thoughtful curation, shared space, and collaboration can elevate both the artist and the customer experience.
Today, my work lives at the intersection of art-making and community, contributing to a creative marketplace that supports local artists while offering a meaningful, engaging shopping experience in Annapolis.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Overall, it’s been a fairly smooth road, but not without its challenges. Like many creatives, imposter syndrome is very real and can creep in at different stages. Learning to recognize it, manage it, and push through to the other side has been an important part of my growth.
Starting with little to no startup funds also came with challenges—it required being resourceful, patient, and strategic from day one. I had to learn how to wear many hats at once, balancing the time spent creating my art with building a presence online.
Learning how to show up on social media—how to share my work, tell my story, and connect authentically with an audience—was a learning curve, but it ultimately became a powerful tool. Those early challenges helped shape not just my business, but my confidence as an artist and entrepreneur.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work spans several mediums, but at its core it’s rooted in a deep appreciation for nature, place, and simplicity. I specialize in black-and-white landscape photography, relief printmaking, and painting—often drawing inspiration from coastal environments, organic forms, and quiet moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.
What sets me apart is the blend of my artistic sensibility with a strong understanding of presentation, curation, and retail. I don’t just make art—I think deeply about how it lives in a space, how people interact with it, and how it becomes part of their everyday lives.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happiest are the simple, grounding things. My family, of course, and my dog Chip—who has a way of keeping me present and balanced. Being near the water is incredibly important to me, as are fresh, open spaces—especially in upstate New York, which has deeply shaped how I see and experience the world.
I love long walks, quiet mornings, and the slow rhythm of time spent working in my studio. Those moments of calm are where I recharge and where my creativity feels most natural. They remind me why I chose this path in the first place.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sheriruizdesign.com
- Instagram: @sruizdesign
- Facebook: Sheri Ruiz Design
