Interview with Kristen Powers of wear for art thou

You’ve seen Kristen’s work in the Gallery, and now you can meet the person behind wear for art thou.

What is your craft / art / creative endeavor?

I love all kinds of arts and crafts and am always experimenting. Most recently I have been creating small dimensional jewelry that’s completely made from paper and acrylic ink. In my shop you will also find some original paintings and illustrations. I am currently a full time student pursuing my BFA in Studio Art.

How did you get started? Have you worked in other creative areas before the kind of work you’re doing now?

I got started when I was three years old and I melted a whole box of oil pastels down the side of the wall heater (it sure was fun)! I have worked in both creative and non creative areas, I have been a soldier, a waitress and a telephone operator, a designer, an art teacher and an illustrator. I definitely prefer the creative!

Do you work alone? With a team? Do you engage your family or friends in the work? What is your process? How do you ensure you get your work done yet still have a life?

Usually I work alone but my family does help me when I am getting ready for a show and my husband always helps me with computer stuff. My family is so supportive of all of my artistic endeavors! I am always inspired by the things around me and going back to school has been a terrific boost to my creativity! My process is just to sketch and write myself lots of notes until i get a big block of time to sit down and make all of the things that are in my head!

…and who said I have a life! haha

Where do you sell your work? Which venues are your favorites? Do you prefer selling online or in person? Do you attend shows or fairs? Is your work in a gallery or brick-and-mortar store?

Right now I only have my etsy shop and I try to show at local Spring and Fall craft festivals. Between that, my “real job” (doing nails in a salon) school and family-well, that keeps me pretty busy!
see me at http://www.wearforartthou.etsy.com.

What do you wish I had asked you?

I wished you had asked me what I would like to learn to make that I can’t make now….(that would be a quilt)!

Oh, I love quilts too. Thank you Kristen! And if you would like to be interviewed on Try Handmade, just head on over to DIY Interview.