About
The Business
I’ve been interested in art and fashion for as long as I can remember. In high school, I focused primarily on illustration work, but I really found my footing in wearable art when I started college. I earned a full art scholarship to the University of Memphis to pursue a degree in studio art. There, I started experimenting with clothing and accessories to really figure out who I was as an artist. After a summer studying fashion illustration abroad in Florence, I fully discovered my passion for clothing design and focused my visual work on the darker concepts that typically infuse the fashion industry—materialism, consumerism, and a fascination with inanimate objects.
Out of those themes, my attraction to skull imagery—the touchstone of my work—emerged. It was after college that I began creating and selling my signature, small Sugar Skulls at craft markets on the weekend. For me, the Sugar Skulls represent the realization that life is both fleeting and beautiful. Because of that, it should be embraced vigorously.
With a background in studio art, my concept typically informs my design. I create well-crafted, handmade work that doesn’t lose the aspect of the human touch poured into the piece. Though my new pieces are often minimalist, the story and work behind them most certainly is not. It’s honest and complicated, much like it’s creator. When I craft a piece of jewelry, I feel like my work is being added to the story of the person who wears it. It commemorates their special moments—their pasts, presents, and futures—and allows me to be a small part of their lives.
From Lauren
Being a Memphis native, I find it very important that my studio and my business exist in my hometown. I am deeply encouraged and rewarded to be a part of our creative community and to produce work amongst so many other multi-talented Memphis makers.
Metal Sugar Skull Pendant CAMPAIGN
Press
For press inquiries please contact lauren@questiontheanswer.com
Southwest: THE Magazine
Found in Memphis
July 2018
The Daily News
Five to Watch, Written by Andy Meek
March 2016
The Daily News
Question the Answer Brings Carlson’s Jewelry to Life, Small Business Spotlight: Written by Lance Wiedower
September 2015
LPBC Radio Show, 600 WREC
Question the Answer, Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club Radio Show, News Radio 600 WREC: Interviewed by Jeremy Park
August 2015
Memphis Flyer Online Blog
Lauren Carlson of Question the Answer Launches New Jewelry Collection, Style Sessions: Written by Sophorn Kuoy
July 2015
Trouvé
Interviews, Spaces & Tours, Intro by Tarra Kruzan & Photography by Well Worn Co.
September 2014
KPFusion Blog
Brands to Know, Written by Kim Thomas
July 2014
Memphis Magazine
Memphis Fashion Weekend Spread, page 32
May 2014 Issue
Memphis Magazine Online Blog
MFW: Throwback Thursday and What’s Ahead, Style Watch: Written by Augusta Campbell
March 2014
Memphis Magazine
Memphis Fashion Weekend Spread, pages 28-32
May 2013 Issue