Meet Grace Derosier | Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Grace Derosier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Grace, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
My business, Sassy Seal Art, brings bold, high-quality art into the world in a way that’s fun, accessible, and full of soul. Everything I make is produced ethically in the U.S., with no shortcuts and no shady labor, because I believe creative work should feel good from start to finish. I price my work to be accessible, not exclusive, because I want everyone to have the chance to own something unique and joyful.

My art is body-positive, colorful, and a little bit rebellious. I’ve created custom pieces for eating disorder recovery groups, and I love knowing my designs help people feel seen, confident, and celebrated. Whether it’s a sassy pinup or a custom sticker for a small business, I’m all about creating pieces that uplift and empower.

I also give out tons of free stickers at events because I want people to leave with something special, a little memento to remember the vibe, the moment, or just something that made them smile. Art should connect people, and I love being part of that spark.

I’ve seen my work light people up, whether it’s nostalgia from an older crowd or someone finding their own voice through something loud and unapologetic. I’m here to spread color, sass, and confidence wherever I can because the world can always use more of all three.

My art fuels self-expression, fosters inclusivity, and adds color and confidence to people’s lives and communities wherever it reaches.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart is that my work is bold, colorful, sassy, ethical, and accessible. Sassy Seal Art isn’t afraid to stand out, and it never compromises on values. Everything I create is made to be high quality and full of personality, without cutting corners or relying on exploitative labor. I’m proud to offer art that’s not only fun and eye-catching, but also made the right way and priced so people can actually enjoy it.

I’m especially proud of the opportunities I’m starting to get, like collaborating with small businesses, DJs, and other artists. When I was younger, I never imagined I’d be working with anyone outside of commissions for family and friends. Seeing my work out in the world and becoming part of other people’s creative visions has been a dream come true.

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. I’ve gotten here through years of gritty, unglamorous hard work. I deal with chronic health issues that make running a business even more challenging. The hardest part isn’t making the art, it’s getting it seen. I’ve wrestled with doubt, imposter syndrome, and burnout. I’ve stressed over commissions, figured out how to manage expenses, applied to art fairs, built a website, and worked endlessly to make myself stand out. It’s a full-time job on top of everything else. What keeps me going is a deep-rooted passion for what I do and the support of family and friends who believe in me.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to stop doubting myself. Artists tend to get stuck in self-criticism, thinking we aren’t improving or making a difference. But looking back at how far I’ve come reminds me to be proud of my growth and to keep pushing forward.

What I want people to know is that Sassy Seal Art is more than just art. It’s a celebration of rebellion, self-expression, and human connection. Watching my art bring people together, help them feel seen, or simply make them smile is the biggest accomplishment of all. That’s what it’s all about.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
To eat:
– Moscow on the Hill for cozy Russian vibes
– Cafe Astoria for picture-perfect drinks and fresh food
– Black Coffee and Waffle Bar because waffles fix everything
– Bambu Kitchen & Sushi for endless Asian-inspired options

To drink:
– The Velveteen Speakeasy in Stillwater for vintage charm and killer cocktails
– Can Can Wonderland for drinks on tap and arcade chaos
– White Bear Meadery for amazing mead and vintage vibes

To visit:
– Downtown St. Paul and Stillwater for cute shops and local charm
– Taylors Falls for hiking and river views
– Como Park & Conservatory for plant therapy
– Hunt and Gather for vintage thrifting treasure hunts

To hang out:
– Minnehaha Falls for a chill day with snacks and nature
– Walker Art Center and the Sculpture Garden for artsy energy
– Up-Down Arcade Bar or a show at First Ave for nightlife

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My sister Anne Marie and my boyfriend John.

Website: https://sassysealart.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sassysealart/