Psychology senior Electra Pelias found solace in an unexpected way in early 2020, making and selling face masks to her peers – in the height of the pandemic.
What started as a temporary project quickly grew into something much greater than Pelias had anticipated, after receiving feedback and support by the Loyola community, she said.
As a born and raised New Orleanian, Pelias said art has always been omnipresent in her life, and her creativity has always found itself “pushing the bounds of acceptable behavior as a child.”
However, once mask restrictions were lifted, Pelias needed to find a new way to express that boundary-pushing creativity.
Upon discovering co-enrollment opportunities at Tulane University, Pelias began taking an elective ceramics class, where she said she fell in love and found her one true passion.
“I’m glad that Loyola offers co-enrollment because being able to take a class like that was crucial,” she said. “It really changed my life.”
And in an age of social distancing and limited human connection, social media became an integral part of Pelias’ platform.
Under the handle @electramakes on Instagram, Pelias promotes and sells her ceramics and handmade jewelry online and through pop ups at Audubon Park and local businesses.
Pelias said the mission behind @electramakes is sustainability and giving back to the community.
Most of the materials used in her creations are recycled or found items, and 20% of proceeds often go to local organizations in need.
In 2022, Pelias raised $1,200 for local nonprofits, including House of Tulip, New Orleans Abortion Fund, and No/Aids Task Force.
“It’s important for me to stand up for what I believe in,” she said.
Pelias gives much credit to the Loyola community for the success of her platform.
“I wouldn’t be able to create art if it weren’t for the support from the Loyola community,” she said.
