Meet Stephanie Kranstover of Hungryy Hippo in Glendale

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Kranstover.

Stephanie, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Two years ago, I was working at a bakery in Alexandria, VA. I was overworked and miserable over a toxic relationship. At that very moment, I decided to change my life drastically. I went searching online looking at art residencies which were something I’ve always been curious about ever since graduating from Art School at VCU. I remember clicking on the quirkiest looking residency called “Elsewhere” in Paonia, Colorado. Receiving the acceptance letter soon after was one of the most exciting and scariest moments of my life. I was about to leave everything behind and start a new life. I was thrilled beyond belief.

Colorado was everything I dreamt of. The people were kind, passionate and opened minded to creative individuals. Paonia was a hidden gem where I could heal from my past relationship and embark on really being free and creating art without inhibitions. It is at this residency where I got to really focus on creating ceramics artwork, whether it be porcelain or polymer clay. I was allowed to create serious ceramic installations as well, as just for fun polymer clay food-inspired jewelry. It was just complete freedom.

Once the residency was over, I decided to stay in Denver and just wing it. I worked at a cake company and became a decorator for weddings and custom-designed cakes. Once the wedding season ended, I decided to see what other artistic jobs were out here and I stumbled upon a sculpting position at a company called Playtime. I’ve never been so happy ever since I moved here. Everything I put my mind to becomes a reality. Things just seem to fall into place. I continue making food jewelry and doing occasional shows throughout the city, as well as selling on my online store. I don’t regret anything and continuing living life and never looking back.

Has it been a smooth road?
Moving here was a bit drastic what with leaving my friends and family behind but well worth it. I made lots of new interesting friends along the way! Figuring out the city and where I wanted to live was a challenge but informative. I had to move a lot in order to finally settle here in the Glendale area.

Please tell us about Hungryy Hippo.
My business is called Hungry Hippo. I specialize in making food inspired jewelry using polymer clay. I’m known for making peoples’ favorite foods in an aesthetically pleasing yet humorous way. I celebrate food and food-lovers way of life. I’m proud of turning a fun hobby into a business where I can bring joy to others, whether it be a gift for a friend or an engagement ring for a lover. I think the fact that you can see I have so much fun making these small-scaled food pieces is what sets me apart. I also don’t mind doing pop up shows and/or selling online.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love everything about Denver. It’s a beautiful place with beautiful people. There’s a genuine personality here of positivity . It’s a great place to be an artist.

Pricing:

• Jewelry costs $15.00 without shipping

Contact Info:

• Website: www.etsy.com/shop/hungryyhippo
• Phone: 703-887-9854
• Email: Kranstoversm@gmail.com

Image Credit:
Photos of me by Hunter Mounts.

Suggest a story: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.