Kiyomi Aupri Friedrich
A passionate wanderer and storyteller, founded her company, The Wisdom Tree, to encourage children to embrace their cultures. After the 2009 economic crash, she turned to construction art, creating pieces from reclaimed materials that reflect her diverse experiences and cultural explorations. Her organic creative process and dedication to transforming hardship into beauty are evident in her art, which she continues to craft from her North Carolina studio.
Upon moving to North Carolina, Kiyomi initially thought she was retired but quickly realized that you never truly retire from art. She became fixated on wildlife and glass sculpting, developing a unique style that brings each sculpture to life. She jokes, “Each morning I enter my studio, I must say good morning to all my little creations, for they feel like they’ve taken on a life of their own with their own unique personality.”
Kiyomi studies each animal meticulously before starting a new wildlife piece, ensuring she captures the smallest details and breathes life into its movements and eyes. She loves creating custom work and bringing her clients’ visions to life, saying, “To watch my clients’ eyes light up as their idea takes form brings me a lot of joy.
Her work also includes Fantasy Characters, abstract, realism.
Shane Friedrich
Shane’s journey began at the young age of five when he started mastering judo, spending seven summers training in Japan and earning his 2nd Dan by the age of 18. His disciplined foundation led him to pursue two master’s degrees in mechanical engineering from the prestigious Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Parallel to his academic and athletic pursuits, Shane built a distinguished career in the German Air Force as a Tornado pilot, eventually retiring with the rank of colonel.
Beyond his military accomplishments, Shane’s talents extended to the world of modeling, acting, and Hollywood stunt work, where he gained invaluable creative and physical experience. Notably, he placed fourth in the 1992 World Cup for bodybuilding and opened five successful gyms in Germany. His entrepreneurial spirit flourished with the founding of an award-winning Harley Davidson chopper business, earning top prizes at the renowned Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Today, Shane channels his diverse skills, passion for craftsmanship, and dedication to excellence into creating high-end art installations that transform spaces around the world. His work embodies a commitment to quality, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of unique artistry.
Cassie Wells
After over ten prosperous years in sales with CCS Presentation Systems, Cassie found her ability to make meaningful connections and her passion for helping others could transform business development. In January 2023, she launched Modern Business Development, representing clients like Sculpting Living Spaces, CCS Presentation Systems (Audio Visual), Corporate Interior Systems (commercial furniture), and Cherry Coatings (interior and exterior paint).
Cassie graduated from the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University and was recognized by AZ Big Media as a ‘2024 People to Know In Commercial Real Estate.’ Beyond her professional success, she is a dedicated philanthropist, serving as a founding member of the St. Vincent de Paul’s Rising Leaders and co-chair for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night fundraising event.
When she’s not fostering new business opportunities or giving back to the community, Cassie takes pride in her most important role: being a mother to her two children. Her 7-year-old daughter, Raine, and 5-year-old son, Phoenix, are her greatest sources of joy and inspiration. Cassie’s ability to connect, inspire, and elevate those around her makes her an integral part of the Sculpting Living Spaces team.
Love at First Sight
"When I first saw Kiyomi’s artwork, Little Feather, I was immediately captivated by its lifelike eyes and intricate details. It was unlike anything I’d ever seen before—so full of spirit and heart. For weeks, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Researching Kiyomi’s process, I saw how much dedication and passion she pours into every piece, making each one a true reflection of her soul. I knew Little Feather had to be mine. Now, I’m proud to have this beautiful, one-of-a-kind artwork in my home—a piece that inspires me every day."
— Diane Carbone, Oriental, NC
"Our ideal client embraces being different, loves art, and trusts in the creative process to watch the magic happen."
Meet Kiyomi Aupri & Shane Friedrich
We had the honor of being featured in a recent article, sharing insights into our artistic journey, our unique approach to space transformation, and the values that drive Sculpting Living Spaces.
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