The Story Behind Many Sands Yoga and Pilates Steel Statement
The Backstory: More Than Just a Commission
Some projects aren’t just about the art. They’re about the people who shape us, who lift us up when we’re ready to walk away, and who remind us why we started in the first place.
For me, Karen has been one of those people. She’s not just the owner of Many Sands Yoga & Pilates. Karen is a mentor, a leader, and the kind of person who changes lives just by being in them. She’s watched me build Vanta from the ground up, through loss, frustration, and the moments I wanted to give it all up. She has never let me.
Karen is so much more than yoga and Pilates. You go to her for mindfulness, mentorship, and a reminder of your own strength. She’s an entrepreneur who creates space for others to grow, and the way she impacts the community is immeasurable.
So when she asked me to create a statement piece for her studio, I knew it had to be special. It had to embody her strength, her energy, and the impact she has on every person she meets.
The Design Process: Strength, Growth & Flow
The design had to capture Karen’s energy and the philosophy behind Many Sands.
I started with flowing, organic lines, inspired by Vanta’s signature Art Nouveau style—a style that reflects movement, growth, and transformation. To symbolize resilience, self-discovery, and balance, I incorporated lotus flowers, a powerful emblem in both yoga and personal growth.
Every part of this design was intentional. Every curve and connection had to serve a purpose.
The biggest technical challenge was ensuring structural integrity without compromising the elegance of the design. Because laser-cut metal requires every piece to be physically connected, I had to balance the fine details with practical durability. Floating elements weren’t an option, so every line had to be part of a seamless structure.
The Execution: Bringing the Vision to Life
With an upcoming photoshoot, we had a tight four-day turnaround to get this piece from concept to reality.
This is where Hannah and James at Flaming Fabrications came in. They’re an incredible family-run business that understands the importance of precision and craftsmanship. They took my design and executed it flawlessly, working under pressure to meet the deadline without compromising quality.
The next challenge was installation. Since bending the metal wasn’t an option, we welded reinforced poles to the back, allowing the sign to be permanently set into the ground and concreted for stability. Every decision was made with both longevity and visual impact in mind, ensuring that the sign would stand as a permanent statement for Many Sands. An acrylic backing was added later, to diffuse the background and make the steel sing even louder.
The Reveal: A Moment of Gratitude
Seeing the final piece installed was overwhelming. It wasn’t just another Vanta design. It was a symbol of a journey, a friendship, and the unshakable power of perseverance.
Karen’s reaction said everything. This wasn’t just a sign for her studio. It was a reflection of her story, her work, and her unwavering ability to lift others up.
A Heartfelt Thank You to my friend Karen. There aren’t enough words to thank you for what you’ve done for me. Your strength, your wisdom, and your relentless belief in me have carried me through my hardest days with Vanta. Without you, I don’t know if I’d still be here doing this. This piece is a fraction of what you’ve given me, and I hope it stands as a permanent reminder of the impact you have on the world.
Are You Ready to Make a Statement in Steel?
Every Vanta commission is a deeply personal collaboration. These aren’t just designs; they are stories, connections, and lasting statements in metal.
If you’re ready to tell your story in steel, let’s create something incredible together.
Contact Vanta to discuss your custom statement piece today.
