So, what’s your story? I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands. I’ve been sewing since I was about 13 years old. My grandmother was my first teacher. She was terribly clever and could figure out a way to make just about anything. Once I grew up I went to cooking school and, although I enjoyed the busy atmosphere of restaurants, found that cooking really wasn’t my calling. Then I had a baby and found my way back to sewing and crafting. Making things with your child is so much fun. I think it fosters self-reliance, cooperation and – if at first it doesn’t succeed, try, try again.
How did you get started creating your artwork? I think I really got started one Christmas when funds were a little low; I was pondering what to get for people and my eyes settled on a macaroni decorated jar that my son had done at school and I thought why don’t I make this years’ presents? I pulled out my sewing machine and I was away! What I like most about textiles is the combination of art and utility. I simply love the idea that I can create something that (1) wasn’t there before, (2) is pretty to look at and (3) is useful. A piece comes out of my studio, goes to somebody else and can be filled with their memories.
Where does your inspiration come from? I think it comes mostly from color. For example, right now it is spring and everything around me is turning green, so I have to do something in green. I sit myself down at my computer and create lots of shapes in all different greens and play and play until I get something that I like, then I think about how I can construct it. Sometimes I just cover my bed with all the fabric bits and pieces I’ve got and see what combinations emerge.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hmmm, I’m always a bit wary of predicting the future. Which may explain why I am an craftsperson/artist and not working for a large corporation. But that said, I hope to be doing what I am doing now, it is what I truly love.
Where do you sell your work? I have an Etsy shop and I’ve just opened stores at 1000 markets and DaWanda.
Who is your favorite artist? I love the art of Paul Klee. Many of his works have inspired my quilts and I study his pictures for color and composition. There is always more to learn.
What is your favorite song and by whom? I don’t know if I have a favorite song as much of favorite artists. I love Neko Case, Natalie Merchant, Iron and Wine… the list goes on and on.
If you were stranded on a deserted island, with your family, what 5 things would you want to have with you? As I used to live on the island of Guam I know a bit about this – mosquito repellent, Swiss Army knife, sunscreen, generator and that soap that makes suds in seawater.
Why do you think people should buy handmade? Because it is just that ‘handmade.’ If my fellow craftspeople are like me (and I think they are) each piece is made with love and integrity. We really care about what we are doing. Nothing makes me feel better than when somebody buys something and gets back to me to say how much they like it. We live in a world where so much of what is on offer is identical and mediocre, when you buy handmade you buy unique; you buy something created with care and something of quality. If you have a questions, you can go straight to the artist and you don’t have to give the last 4 digits of your social security number! It has the human touch that I think people respond to.
How did you get started creating your artwork? I think I really got started one Christmas when funds were a little low; I was pondering what to get for people and my eyes settled on a macaroni decorated jar that my son had done at school and I thought why don’t I make this years’ presents? I pulled out my sewing machine and I was away! What I like most about textiles is the combination of art and utility. I simply love the idea that I can create something that (1) wasn’t there before, (2) is pretty to look at and (3) is useful. A piece comes out of my studio, goes to somebody else and can be filled with their memories.
Where does your inspiration come from? I think it comes mostly from color. For example, right now it is spring and everything around me is turning green, so I have to do something in green. I sit myself down at my computer and create lots of shapes in all different greens and play and play until I get something that I like, then I think about how I can construct it. Sometimes I just cover my bed with all the fabric bits and pieces I’ve got and see what combinations emerge.
Who is your favorite artist? I love the art of Paul Klee. Many of his works have inspired my quilts and I study his pictures for color and composition. There is always more to learn.
Why do you think people should buy handmade? Because it is just that ‘handmade.’ If my fellow craftspeople are like me (and I think they are) each piece is made with love and integrity. We really care about what we are doing. Nothing makes me feel better than when somebody buys something and gets back to me to say how much they like it. We live in a world where so much of what is on offer is identical and mediocre, when you buy handmade you buy unique; you buy something created with care and something of quality. If you have a questions, you can go straight to the artist and you don’t have to give the last 4 digits of your social security number! It has the human touch that I think people respond to.
