Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I currently live in Austin, Texas. I have been married for almost 11 years, and we have two little girls, ages 4 and 5. I was a Social Worker in Child Protective Services before I had my kids. I can't imagine doing that type of work again and I am hoping my art leads me somewhere.
How did you get started with your craft?
I started painting as a release from my work. I did not pick up a paint brush until 10 years ago. But, I started making my vases after my husband bought me flowers for our 10th anniversary last year, and this non-descript vase I was left with, after the flowers had died, inspired me to make it into something beautiful.
What are your favorite materials to work with?
Stucco and acrylic paint. They lend themselves to many possibilities.
What inspires you?
Inspiration is found in many places. The colors found in nature; the sky, the beach, the mountains, and trees, all inspire me. My kids, books, and even sleep inspired me. I love to wake up to new ideas that I can't wait to try out.
How do you get out of creative ruts?
Take a break. I need to take breaks. Get out and do something. Go for a drive. I need to be away from my cell phone, from my computer, and I can usually find my way out of a rut.
Which of your items is your favorite? Tell us why?
Oh goodness... hmmm... probably any vase in my Inside Out Series. I particularly love this vase: www.etsy.com/listing/76185330/inside-outside-series-1-glass-and-stucco I thought of painting the outside of the vase before I added the stucco, so the inside looks painted, and I am loving this new line!
What made you decide to sell your work? And why on Etsy?
I opened my shop to have a place to direct my customers to when I would do craft shows. I was doing glass mosaic art at the time. Although I never did end up doing too much with my shop at that time. And when I made my first vase, a fire was lit inside of me and I did not want to stop making the vases, so I knew I had to do something with them, so up they went in my Etsy Shop.
What is the most rewarding part of having your own business?
The fact that it is all mine. Regardless of success or failure; that will fall upon me and it is very motivating. I just want to keep getting better and growing as an artist and as a business person.
What do you enjoy doing in your off time?
I enjoy swimming, taking the kids to the zoo and the parks.
If you had to describe your art as a fruit, what fruit would you choose and why?
I would choose the classic red delicious apple...but my art would be a candy apple.... classic glass vases, dolled up with their candy coating (stucco and paint!).
Visit Kristin
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/ArtByKristin
**Readers use coupon code - ThankYou10 - expiration date 12/31/2011
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArtByKristinM
Blog: mysweetthree-kristin.blogspot.com
I started painting as a release from my work. I did not pick up a paint brush until 10 years ago. But, I started making my vases after my husband bought me flowers for our 10th anniversary last year, and this non-descript vase I was left with, after the flowers had died, inspired me to make it into something beautiful.
What are your favorite materials to work with?
Stucco and acrylic paint. They lend themselves to many possibilities.
What inspires you?
Inspiration is found in many places. The colors found in nature; the sky, the beach, the mountains, and trees, all inspire me. My kids, books, and even sleep inspired me. I love to wake up to new ideas that I can't wait to try out.
How do you get out of creative ruts?
Take a break. I need to take breaks. Get out and do something. Go for a drive. I need to be away from my cell phone, from my computer, and I can usually find my way out of a rut.
Which of your items is your favorite? Tell us why?
Oh goodness... hmmm... probably any vase in my Inside Out Series. I particularly love this vase: www.etsy.com/listing/76185330/inside-outside-series-1-glass-and-stucco I thought of painting the outside of the vase before I added the stucco, so the inside looks painted, and I am loving this new line!
What made you decide to sell your work? And why on Etsy?
I opened my shop to have a place to direct my customers to when I would do craft shows. I was doing glass mosaic art at the time. Although I never did end up doing too much with my shop at that time. And when I made my first vase, a fire was lit inside of me and I did not want to stop making the vases, so I knew I had to do something with them, so up they went in my Etsy Shop.
What is the most rewarding part of having your own business?
The fact that it is all mine. Regardless of success or failure; that will fall upon me and it is very motivating. I just want to keep getting better and growing as an artist and as a business person.
What do you enjoy doing in your off time?
I enjoy swimming, taking the kids to the zoo and the parks.
If you had to describe your art as a fruit, what fruit would you choose and why?
I would choose the classic red delicious apple...but my art would be a candy apple.... classic glass vases, dolled up with their candy coating (stucco and paint!).
Visit Kristin
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/ArtByKristin
**Readers use coupon code - ThankYou10 - expiration date 12/31/2011
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ArtByKristinM
Blog: mysweetthree-kristin.blogspot.com
beautiful work!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! :)
ReplyDeleteI ♥ Kristin's vases!! I have one of my very own and plan to purchase several as Christmas gifts this year!! Her art only showcases her big heart and warm personality. :)
ReplyDeleteKristin's work is awesome. She has so much passion that she puts into each piece. Her positive attitude coupled with her spirited personality is definetly reflected in her work. I love that each piece is one of a kind. Beautiful art and a beautiful person!!!!
ReplyDeleteGreat post and great shop! It's good to see the faces behind the avatars :)
ReplyDeleteSuch amazing work.
ReplyDeleteIt was a pleasure to read about you.
All the best,
Dana (CafeD & RusticWeddingStyle)
Great interview! The vases are gorgeous!
ReplyDelete