FEATURED ARTIST

Our features focus most often on craft - here we have a feature on art - a painter.




Here is our interview with the artist, Krishala.
Briefly describe what you make?

I am primarily a painter, and initially started by painting pop art works. Lately this has developed into a line of prints in my Etsy shop. Recently, i have picked up a camera and am enjoying photography. I have my 2 year old son all day with me so photography tends to be easier to do while looking after him. We go for wolks and I capture the landscapes. I will get back to painting in the fall, and will be creating larger pieces, still working with oils, and also experimenting with acrylics. I also have a clothing line, Jalousie, which is in my shop - this was created for the fun of designing a 'line' but my true passion is painting.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I used to only work with oils. Lately i have been experimenting with acrylics. one thing I don't like about acrylics is that you cannot manipulate your piece over and over again as you can with oils. I do intend to try watercolour in the near future, after seeing a wonderful local exhibition which inspired me which was entirely watercolour.

How long have you been creating craft?

Only sine 2008! Just after the birth of my son, Leon. I was at home all night and he just slept and slept. so I needed something creative to do! I enjoyed art classes in school, but really my passion for art started in the summer of 2008. When I was nineteen I was very into abstract photography. I lived in Santa Monica, California and the landscapes and greenery were amazing.

How did you get started?

My boyfriend who was a photographer kept pushing me and pushing me to try and do something creative. I think he wanted to live with a like minded artist! I tried one night with a small canvas panel on the kitchen table, and was very proud of what I created. Around the same time I discovered Etsy and as soon as i started gaining hearts on my first few items, I was hooked. (Literally, Etsy is addictive people!) I would paint at night at the kitchen until one night my boyfriend came home with a huge industrial easel.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Acacias is where i used to live. It's a suburb of Geneva, Switzerland. I added gallery as I thought it would seem more professional. The region is named after the tree Acacias.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

That I am constant exploring and trying new things, and that I put my heart into my work! I don't have formal art training, but I have been thinking of finally taking some lessons to further develop my work. I would like people to think my work is edgy, some of it isn't and I go through phases of just painting 'pretty things' but then I always have the desire to be a bit more rough, and towards the style of pop or modernism. I like the idea and hope that some people are following what I do, and seeing me grow as an artist.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Something that I struggle with is that I don't have a distinct style. You don't yet see a piece of mine and instantly recognize it as mine. That is something i believe can really work for you, having a signature style. Also, take good photos of your work. My earliest works which have since sold, some of them I took slightly blurry photos of them. This means sadly that I can never sell them as prints. If you take crisp excellent photos of your work, your work can live on in pendants, prints, postcards, you name it!

Also have faith in what your producing. I am getter better at believing in my work. I used to be insecure as I hadn't gone to school for art, but now I realize what I am creating is unique and precious, even if it won't be to everyone's taste, someone out there will hopefully love it.

Lastly, as another artist on Etsy told me, don't forget to paint! Then paint some more! You can get so caught up in twitter, the forums etc that you forget to produce. Sure marketing is important but try to produce new work as often as you can.

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Krishala does very nice work. Come and see her shop!

FEATURED ARTIST

We are back after the Holidays with another artist interview. Come and meet


Here is our interview with the artist, Sarah -

Briefly describe what you make?

I have fabric bookmarks and reusable gift bags in my shop, but I primarily create fabric flowers to be used as an accessory. My Esty shop is relatively new to me and so is this process of creating products to sell. So I am still finding myself and what it is I want to present to the world. Right now I am in the midst of a rainbow-licious project that will include quilts, placemats, bags and more.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I love to work with fabric. The minute my mother gifted me with a sewing machine I was hooked. I love to draw, paint, take photographs and create will sorts of mediums, but I feel I can best offer people quality products of value through sewing.

How long have you been creating craft?

How long? Um...Can you count creating storybooks as a child? =) I'd say I started the love affair with sewing about 8 years ago.

How did you get started?

It all started one winter when I was home from college for Christmas. I was an Environmental Science major and young, which meant I thought I could save the world. Coincidently my mother was slowly taking over my room and was storing her sewing machine and fabric in there. I was inspired to sew dozens of cloth gift bags in order to cut down on the amount of wrapping paper we threw away every Christmas morning. It snowballed from there. Both my mother and mother in law now have hundreds of cloth bags for Christmas and other special occassions. I wanted to challenge myself to new projects and along came blankets and quilts. Now I just want to see how I can challenge fabric to mold into the images I see in my head.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

When I began to acrue more inventory than I could handle I knew it was time to start selling my products. I had just heard about Etsy on some blogs and thought this would be a great way to start. My friend and I brainstormed some shop names and she came up with Seamingly Sarah. It was perfect! I remain open to outside influences and offers of help because sometimes they are just what you need, a blessing.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I really want people to know that (a) I love to create with fabric, (b) I truly believe each product they receive from me is made with love, pure, true, love and (c) I intend to create products that can be used over and over again, cutting down on the waste we produce in this life.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Words of advice? This question scares me because I deal with my own inner battle that I am a good enough artist. A large reason I started Seamingly Sarah was because I wanted to explore who I am as an artist and realize and accept my creativity - nourish and grow it. So the advice that has inspired me just to get started has been to (a) just do it, we have so many ideas go through our heads yet rarely follow through, take a step, even a small one, (b) only do it if you enjoy the process, don't get hung up on the results and (c) find a mantra to counter attack your deepest fears - mine is "I am a valuable artist"

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Great! Now go and see Sarah's shop and come back and leave a comment!

FEATURED ARTIST

This week we have a paper artist! Come and meet:



Here is our interview with the artist -

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Briefly describe what you make?

I take plain jane journals, books and planners embellish them with my art and adorn them with beautiful fibers and silk ribbon.( I now dye some of my own fibers and silk ribbon ). I also make artistic Greeting cards, tags and embellish small boxes with papers, vintage finds,and fibers. I use some very special techniques that I have developed and that are
mine, and my trademark as an artist. My items are useful and a piece of art at the same time.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Paper and ink are my favorites ! I love the versatility of paper. You can take a piece of paper, manipulate it to mimic century old leather or old yellowed paper, the kind you would find in your grandma's dusty attic. I also love working with all kinds of fibers and am now dyeing my own silk ribbon, its opened up a whole new area of creativity for me. I adore all things vintage and use vintage pieces in my work whenever
I can. Most of my work has a vintage look to it and the old medal and findings are a perfect match. I find embellishments for my work everywhere! Thrift stores, tag sales,
and friends and family are always finding stuff for me, sometimes even when I'm on a walk, I've found things on the street! I like old things that tell a story. I've always liked reading and writing. A lot of the words and Quotes that I use on my work are my favorites, they say something to me personally, so I put those on my work because its part of who I am.


How long have you been creating craft?

Well its been a long time because I'm so old!! The first thing I ever remember making
that fueled my creative fire was a Mother's Day gift I made when I was about 10 or 11.
It was a tuna can that I put plaster on and textured it with a fork,added brown paint
all over to give it that old patina (see, I was doing it even back then..) and then added a cute little felt bird and a little plastic branch that looks like real wood to the side. I was so proud of that and I remember my mom's face when i gave it to her.
She saved it and I have it today.

How did you get started?

I started scrap booking about 12 years ago. Taught scrap booking and card making classes for a few years. I soon became bored with it all. I experimented with different products and started using then in different ways. My style evolved out of that and I started applying my art to some of my favorite things. I gave my art as gifts to family and friends and soon was on my way to selling it for all to enjoy.Its been a journey that has opened up doors and my heart.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Its very simple!
The first 2 letters of my first and last name. Degi is also a nickname that some of my friends call me. Paperart encompasses all that I do. Paper and art are 2 of my favorite things in the world.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

6.The Quotes and words that I chose on my work has touched my heart and soul and says a lot about the artist behind the work. Words are so powerful, whether you are speaking,
reading or writing them. I have a lot of respect for artists that make their own books and paper, I've done it and it is so much work. But for me I've found that it is not a process that I enjoy. So I use books and journals that are ready for my artistic touch, thats where the doors open for me and I can put mt heart and soul into that. I am working on putting my art to canvas, I've had so many people say to me I want to put your art on my wall!
So I'm going to do a little of that. I also don't really like to do dupulates of my work
or try to make 2 of the same, but I realize that sometimes its what people want, I want my customers to be open and honest with me so I can work with them and make them a piece
that they will treasure.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Don't put limits on what you can do, and don't worry what other people will think about your art. Be brave. Don't follow logic or common sense when you are creating your art, for that's when you will discover who you really are and what gifts you have to share. Find time to be still in your life and you will find your calling, who you are and what you are meant to be doing. Don't ever stop Dreaming...
A Favorite Quote:
"Your life is the manifestation of your dream; it is art. And you can change your life anytime if you aren't enjoying the dream. Dream masters create a masterpiece of life; they control the dream by making choices. Don Miguel Ruiz

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Nice interview!

Come see this shop! And then come back here and leave a comment!

FEATURED ARTIST

We have a painter to feature this week. Come and meet



Here is our interview with the artist, Amanda -


Briefly describe what you make?

I create original paintings with acrylics in addition to creating mixed media/2D art that has a modern vibe to it but can suit itself in different types of decor as well.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Acrylics. Although I have not tried oils to date I am totally happy with what I can achieve with acrylics. With 3 kids I have a limited working time so acrylics accomodate that as well. I love working with different gel mediums as well it helps to create the type of texture I desire. Also, I have brought in using papers and really enjoying that route right now plus they are upcycled. I rescued an almost bin bound wallpaper sample book from a local paint shop and use that a lot in my 2D pictures.

How long have you been creating art?

I have had a love of drawing as far back as I can remember! If I wasn't drawing or painting I was doing some sort of arts related thing from sewing, beading, crafting, modelling and professional acting. Infact, I acted professionally since I was 14 with jobs in commercials, movies and various roles in TV series, but again, I have 3 wonderful kids and the amount of hours away from them just wasn't worth it. No matter how much money I could make, no amount would ever buy time back! With this and a series of other events that happened in my life is what brought me back to painting.

How did you get started?

I started getting more serious about selling my paintings after incurring a large stock pile of them from painting so much. The biggest challenge for me to get over was fear! (Crazy huh!? ) But it first kept me from even painting for a while because of all the what ifs...what if it's no good, what if I lost my touch, what if this and what if that. I had people always encouraging me and asking if I was persuing my art and I realized that I had been given a talent to share and use, not to waste! Many sales later through both Ebay and Etsy I have shared my art with people throughout North America and just recently, in Europe as well! These people would have never been able to enjoy my art on their walls if I had stayed in fear and done nothing.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop is simply my last name - Park. Add the art studio on the end and there you have it. I still wanted my store name to represent me but when I googled Amanda Park it is strangely an actual place in Washington! Look it up for yourself.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I want people to know that my work is created with passion! I love what I do and in everything I do, I will do it to the best of my ability. That is how I was raised. I will keep tweaking a painting for days and even months until I am satisfied with how it looks. It is frustrating getting to that point sometimes, but so rewarding to see the finished product.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Get around people that will encourage you in what you want to do and DO NOT let fear of rejection get in the way. A great quote from the king of hockey ( I am Canadian so I think everyone here knows this one ) Wayne Gretzky is - " You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. " So true. Look for different ways to get yourself out there and stay positive.

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Fabulous! Please come and take a look now at this shop and then come on back and let Amanda know what you think!

FEATURED ARTIST

Hmm. Our featured artist describes their shop as "evil" - really. Well, that should get your interest about -



Come meet this "evil" artist -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make the world a brighter place with snarktastic greeting cards and paper gifts that your mother would never send. We combine beautiful design with edgy copy to create the kind of products that make smart people laugh.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I tend to prefer working in larges. Size matters, you know. Flytrap is a paper store.

How long have you been creating craft?

My shop has been open for a little over a year. But I don't consider it a craft. It's more of a means of spreading evil pleasure.

How did you get started?

I started by making jewelry. I sold okay, maybe 35 sales in 6 months. I realized I sucked at jewelry after I made some obnoxious parking tickets in December of 2009 (my only paper item at the time). They sold like hotcakes. By mid-February, I had given all of the jewelry away and completely transformed the business into paper products.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Venus Flytraps teeter on the edge of inappropriate plant behavior - just like Flytrap products do. They're also funny looking.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

Someone, somewhere is going to get offended. Someone, somewhere else is going to laugh. The important thing to remember about Flytrap is that we will not skimp on quality in language, paper, design, or printing. You're going to be able to give someone a card that makes them laugh after teasing them with a warm and fuzzy graphic.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Be agile. Don't get emotionally attached to any aspect of your business - least of all your art. If something's not moving, create something that will. By the same token, realize there is a market for everything. If you're going to insist on creating a product that isn't moving, spend your time finding a market that wants it.

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Neat things from a neat artist. Come see NeatThings

FEATURED ARTIST

This featured artist's work is unique. You really must see it for yourself. Let me introduce you to



Here is our interview with the artist...

Briefly describe what you make?

I don’t know the best way to label what I make, but they are basically painted canvases that would be used as home décor or wall hangings. They have a design along with a quote or personalized to include a name. My next goal is to make some pictures frames.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I am really into acrylic paints right now. They have an endless possibility when it comes to colors and I find them to be the easiest paint to work with. Not to mention adding a little paint to something can make a HUGE difference.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been doing crafts all my life. My parents always say that when I was little I constantly had a piece of paper and pencil in my hands. From then on I’ve always had to be busy creating things. But only until about 2 months ago I finally decided to try to sell some of my pieces.

How did you get started?

One day I was sitting at Barnes & Nobles looking through a book of people who make money from selling crafts and came across someone who used Etsy. Right when I got home I started looking through the website and fell in love. I started creating canvases and when I felt like I had enough to start it up, I created an account and opened a shop. From there I created a facebook page and twitter account to try and get my name out there.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Coming up with a name for me was almost a nightmare. Once I came up with it I knew I would be stuck with it, and when you are a perfectionist that is a little stressful. My mom and I started emailing back and forth trying to come up with something and finally she came up with “Bellatina.” Both sides of my family are Italian (Longinotti & Ugolini…can you tell?) so it’s only natural that she had to incorporate some Italian in there and then she added on “tina” because that’s what some of my close friends call me, short for Christina. Put the two words together, add “creations” to it, and it makes a pretty good name!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I put a lot of effort into it. I am such a perfectionist it sometimes drives me crazy, but as a result, all of my pieces are very nicely done. I would never sell something that I wouldn’t approve of myself. I love doing them and I hope others can see that.

What advice do you have to give to other artists?

Be proud that you are an artist. Not everyone is given this talent. As an artist you are given the ability to express yourself and at the same time create beautiful things for others to enjoy.

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Good interview. Nice shop. Come and take a look at Bellatina Creations and then come on back here and comment and let this artist know what you think!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

First, Happy Thanksgiving to all!

We have another great photographer to feature. Come and meet



Here is our interview with the photographer...

Briefly describe what you make?

I make fine art photographs. Mostly I focus on nature photography, but I also have some whimsical and some industrial subjects.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I am adoring digital photography because I take A LOT of pictures! Digital allows me to try angles and styles that I might not have with film because of the expense.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've always been interested in photography. My grandparents gave me my first "real" camera when I was about 8.

How did you get started?

When my grandfather passed away a few years ago, my grandma gave me his circa 1970 Olympus and all the lenses and things he had acquired over 30 years. Since then I've switched to digital, but I haven't stopped shooting!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop comes from my desire to show things the way they actually appear. Nature photography is my main focus- hence, the "stone." Presenting nature unaltered, unPhotoshopped, unposed is where the "unturned" part comes from. I don't turn the stones I photograph!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I show people what I saw. I rarely alter photographs beyond cropping, and perhaps changing to black and white. I really only use Photoshop to put on my watermark! I like people to know that what they are seeing is real, not the result of tweaking in a computer program. I think that's important to show people real nature before it disappears.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Doing something you love is so important. It's such a thrill to open my new images and find something that makes me proud. I wish that feeling on everyone.

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You know the expression that a picture is worth a thousand words - check out this shop!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

Here is a photographer on Etsy with some great Fall themed photographs - and more. Come and meet


Here is our interview with the photographer, Ezzy!

What do you make?

The short answer to that is Artwork! I shoot with a Nikon D40X - digital - then use photoshop to enhance, change, and edit my work. My subject matter mostly includes landscapes, but I also take a few still lifes. I do some portraiture outside of my etsy shop.

What mediums do you enjoy working in the most?

Well, photography in all aspects of course, but there are, after all, many different aspects of photography. I was never much good at taking pictures when I was young. I can't tell you how many photos I have of people from the neck down that I took with my first camera. But eventually I started working with film - and I fell in love with it! Nothing makes a better sound than the swish and click of the shutter on a completely mechanical old camera. And then there is the darkroom . . . the acid smell of the developing chemicals and the weird light. But digital has been a fun experience as well. The convenience, ese adn versatility of digital is a great addition to the world of photography. And then there is photoshop. It took me a lot longer to warm up to that than anything else, but now that I have learned it, it is so much fun to create in it!

How long have you been crafting?

Well, as an artist, I have been drawing as long as I can remember. I ghad an old Sunday school teacher who used to tell me she knew I'd become an artist because when I was two and in her sunday school class, she gave all the children crayons and paper. And while all the other children were eating the crayons and throwing them at each other, I was sitting quietly, drawing little circles on my paper. I started painting with oils when I was 11 and continued that through college. It wasn't until my sophmore year of college that I discovered photography, but I fell in love with it. I'm 26 now so I have been photographing for about 7 years now.

How did you get started?

I was reluctant to do it, but I signed up for the photo class offered at my college. I borrowed an old Canon camera from a family friend, never intending to like photography enough to want to buy one of my own. I was just taking the class because I needed the credit for my art degree. I wasn't very good it at first - I actually had to reshoot my first assignment and stay after class for some one on one tutoring with my teacher. But when I finally got the hang of it, I excelled. I stayed late after class and came in to the darkroom in the evenings afer work. Eventually I grew to love it enough and gather enough skills, I presented my senior art show in photography. I now own 2 35mm fil cameras, a yashika medium format camera, a holga, and a Nikon D40X.

How did you name your shop?

The name of my shop comes from my name. In case you are curious (cause it's kind of a strange name) there is a story behind "ezzy." I have a younger brother who I am very close to. He is two years younger than I am and when we were little, he couldn't say my name - Sara. So, he called me "Sever" and I hated it! That's how little brothers are! And of course, since I hated it, he did it even more. As we got older "Sever" went way until I was in middle school and he started calling me that again. Then, one day out of the blue, he started calling me Sever again. A couple weeks later, he mixed it all around and called me Ezzfur. I was mortified and made him promise to never call me that in front of anyone ever. So what does he do? He calls me that at a birthday party in front of friends. They liked it, latched onto it and shortened it to Ezzy. And it stuck! So when I first discovered etsy, I created an account under my name. I have named my shop "In Other Words, Photography." My husband is a writer on the side and he actually helped me come up with it. It goes along with the old cliche that a picture is worth a thousand words.

What would you want people to know about your work?

I guess what I want people to know about my photography is that I never really feel more like myself than when I am behind the lens. It's a natural high - I find myself smiling every time I lower the camera after taking a picture. Beauty is all around in the big and in the small. When I am behind the lens, I get to explore that beauty, single it out, give it a voice. My portrait work, for example, is very rarely posed. My best photos are when people aren't paying attention to me - when they are relaxed and natural. I don't create wuth the sole purpose of making money - I create for the joy of it. For the sound of the shutter opening and closing, for the excitement of downloading a shoot and seeing what came out, for the smell of photo chemicals and the feel of the camera in my hands . . .

Any words of advice for other artists?

To other artists, I would say be true to yourself. Create what you love and the work that comes from it will be a true reflection of yourself. Do it for the right reasons, for the love of the yarn sliding through your fingers, the feel of the clay spinning on the wheel in your hand, the paint beneath your finger nails, and dropped beads glittering in the carpet. Don't create to make a living - live to create. Know that what you leave in this world is a little more beauty a piece of yourself that can never be erased.

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Ezzy does some very nice work! You must go and see Ezzy's shop -and then come back here and your appreciation!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

Here is another in our features of wonderful photographers who sell their work on-line. Come and meet -


Here is our interview with Andrea -

Briefly describe what you make?

I make photographs, mostly of everyday objects utilizing bold color and shapes, but I also have a few pretty flowers and landscapes available for sale.

What photo mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I always use a DSLR (digital single lens reflex) camera for my studio work and most everything else. However, lately I've been trying to use more film and to focus more on black & white. I'm trying to get back to why I fell in love with photography in the first place: just looking around and taking pictures of what I see instead of "creating" or "styling" a photo. When I do this, I use a Nikon N65 (my very first camera), a Holga, and a small accordion-style medium format camera called Wester Chrome-Six NKK.

How long have you been creating?

I having been taking pictures regularly since my freshman year of high school, about 8 years ago.

How did you get started?

I can't remember how I got started in photography. I've always been an artist of some kind, either painting or drawing and everyone always knew me as being very artistic. My guess would be that I've always liked looking at photographs and when I actually tried my hand at it, I liked it much more than drawing or painting. For me, it's much easier to make beautiful art with photography. If you mess up, you don't have to erase or start over, you can just take another picture. Which probably means I wasn't that good at drawing in the first place!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

The name of my shop IS my name!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I would want most people to know that I put a lot of time and effort into my photography, especially the studio work. I know that my style is very different from the pretty, dreamy, flowery, neutral-toned work that seems to be most popular on Etsy, but I don't mind being different. Hopefully the people who like my work will find it and support it.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

I'm so bad at giving advice... really all I can say is: if you love it, then do it. And don't let anyone tell you that you should do it a certain way or not do it a certain way. The best part about being an artist (as with everything else) is if you honestly stick to it, your art will grow and become stronger in time. Believe me, I feel I've come light years since I first picked up a camera!

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Come now and take a look at Andrea's shop on Etsy. Andrea is a member of POE - Photographers of Etsy.

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

We present once again another of the great photographers to be found on ETSY who are selling their work. Let me introduce you to


Come meet Anne -

Briefly describe what you make?

Fine art prints

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Photography

How long have you been creating?

I got my first camera when I was ten.

How did you get started?

I always loved anything art related and having been drawing for years. I was an art major before I went into nursing. I became interested in photography specifically because it's the only color medium I feel really comfortable with. I love photography because it enables me to capture a moment the way I see it and to be able to share that with people.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Too easy...my name ; )

What would you most want people to know about your work?

How much I really love capturing the intense beauty of Mother Nature and that I hope that they experience the same sense of peace and wonder I do when I am out shooting.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

I'd pass on the best I was ever given and use often... Just keep going. Whatever you're working on, in whatever medium, may not look exactly as you'd like at the moment but just keep working because you never know where you'll end up. You may be surprised, sometimes it's the process that matter not the product.
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Please visit Anne's shop - AnneClarke. You will be delighted to find some wonderful nature photography including underwater scenes. In addition to prints Anne also offers her photos as pendants and greeting cards. Anne is a member of POE - Photographers of Etsy.

DAISIES

One of my newest photographs is being offered at a site called RedBubble. The photograph is titled simply Daisies.


RedBubble is a site that hosts photography and graphic artworks for viewing and for sale. Different than sites such as Etsy or Ebay, RedBubble does the actual printing and shipment of the images that it hosts. The benefit is that the artist creates the photograph and allows the host site to fulfill the sales. One of the drawbacks of this site is that the artist only is paid when a minimum dollar amount in sales is reached and that amount must be reached each time a check is to be issued. An advantage is that photograph sizes may be offered that may not be in the artist's ability to print. There is also the ability to offer graphics on teeshirts and there are a variety of interesting tee shirt creations that many artists have designed. The work that RedBubble does when printing is fabulous!

RedBubble is based in Australia but all of the sales are handled in US Dollars. It is a site worth checking out. You can see other works by this photographer there as well - several not offered on other sites.

Art to Share

One of the best ways to share art is to find artists creating their work as greeting cards. Often these cards are quality prints that are suitable for framing. For some time now, Past Perfect, has offered note cards and greeting cards featuring the photography of this artist.

The newest cards celebrate Spring and warmth - the warmth that is symbolized in the sunflower. The first of these cards is called Peep Peep.



Little chicks in their nest welcome Spring. This card makes a wonderful Easter Card and is great for any occasion. It would be a wonderful invitation to a baby shower! The inside of the card is blank so that any personal sentiment may be added.

The second card features the sunflower. There is a great fascination with sunflowers - perhaps because they are so large and grow so tall. This one is reaching the sky.


There are so many occasions that this card is perfect for. The sky and the sun - but the sun is the sunflower. Its warmth comes right through this image.

Cards make a wonderful way to share art. And, believe it or not, these cards are only two dollars each. There is also a special offer to mix or match any six of these same size cards for just $6.00 - including individuals of those offered in sets. And all with very low shipping. Come to Past Perfect to see all of the photo art cards that are offered!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

I should actually title this Featured Photographers because this is a husband and wife who share a shop - Painted With Light. The shop is a member of the Photographers of Etsy (POE) and has images that have beautiful color. Come and meet



Here is our interview -

Briefly describe what you make?

We’re digital photographers. Using Canon equipment, we manipulate light to capture digital images. We take those images into Photoshop to perform our post processing. In the majority of our photographs, we only use Photoshop to enhance the photo. Our goal is to portray the subject matter as naturally as possible, as we originally saw it.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

At this point, we only work in digital. In terms of subject matter, our photography spans landscapes, nature, macros, and cityscapes. We’re fortunate to live in a very beautiful area and there always seem to be something new to photograph!

How long have you been creating craft?

Photography has been a hobby of mine for many years. Somewhere I still have a picture I took when I was very young of my grandfather – I believe more than half of his head and body are cut off. Hopefully I’ve gotten a little better since then.

How did you get started?

I’ve always enjoyed documenting the world around me. I got my first SLR camera in high school and the rest is history. My husband became interested in photography after we met and we transitioned to digital photography in 2005. This gave us the ability to take more pictures and have more control over the post processing. At the beginning of this year, we decided we’d attempt to sell our photos after our friends and family encouraged us to share our work with others.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Photography literally translates to ‘drawing with light.’ We love working with light to create unique, creative images. We thought it would be fitting to use the name Painted With Light, as with our photography what we’re really doing is painting with light to create our photographs!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

Our style is very much about keeping as true to our subject matter as possible. We like to challenge ourselves to capture images in situations that aren’t always the easiest. We welcome any feedback about our work.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Create your own style and stick with it! Keep at your craft because you truly enjoy doing it. And make the time for it – not always an easy thing to do!

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Please do go and see Painted With Light. You will enjoy what you see!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

Our photographer is another member of POE - Photographers of Etsy and has his shop on the Etsy site. The pictures that you will find there are very stark in color and that makes them very appealing. Come and meet


Here is our interview with Matt -

Briefly describe what you do?

I am a self taught photographer, someone who is very passionate about photography but has a limited amount of time to devote to my hobby. I shoot images that I think are interesting, and a lot of times I end up missing, but once in a while I'll capture something that works.

How long have you been taking pictures?

For as long as I can remember. But it wasn't until recently that I started taking pictures for myself. In college I took a photography class that blended film photography with digital processing. A few years ago I got back into film photography with a black and white class, and around the same time I started to take pictures seriously as a hobby. Within the past year I've taken the leap to putting some of the images I've taken over the years up on Etsy.

How did you get started?

I have always loved taking photos, but I didn't get into photography seriously until my wife and I began to have kids. Almost four years ago my first daughter was born, and looking back at old pictures of me as a kid I knew I wanted to capture as much of her first days on film as I could. I really enjoy the nostalgia that old photos create. Early on I was only shooting pictures of my daughter, but as we got back into traveling, and as my hobby expanded, I started taking pictures of other subjects.

Do you shoot digitally or do you use film?

I shoot about 95% digitally, but I recently picked up two film cameras that I am starting to use more of. I really enjoy the look of the images that come out of those cameras, but I'm still learning how to use them effectively. One day I'll put some images from the film cameras up on my Etsy shop.

What are your favorite things to photograph?

I don't think I have a favorite subject, but I do feel like I go through periods where one type of photography will dominate what I'm capturing. For a while I was focusing just on night photography, and while that is still something I like to do I am not spending much time doing it at the moment mostly because it's so cold out. This year I am trying to expand into shooting concepts - something like a project where I focus on one subject or theme for a period of time. I’m still compiling the list of contenders for my first theme. Ultimately if it catches my eye I'll take a photo of it.

What words of advice do you have for other photographers?

The number one piece of advice I can give, and something I need to pay attention to, is to bring your camera everywhere. You never know when you'll encounter something interesting to capture.

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You must visit Matt at his shop. Matt also has a blog site that you might want to drop in on too! You are going to see a lot that you are going to like!

And while you are Etsy - please do come and pay a visit to

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

I am so happy to introduce you to another photographer who is selling her work on the Web. This is another member of the Photographers of Etsy group. Please come and meet April and her shop -



Here is our interview with April.

Briefly describe what you make?

I actually have 2 shops on Etsy, this one is dedicated to my photography and I also have a shop for beaded stuff. So I guess you could call me a beading photographer!

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I'm a digital girl! I would really like to have a dark room some day and process my own film! As far as my subjects, I'm partial to nature, especially flowers. But, I also like to find the abstract in everyday things. And, thanks to my husband I like cars!

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been taking pictures since junior high (although I would NEVER show anybody any of that!!). I only really got serious about being artistic with it towards the end of last year. I, by no means, consider myself a professional photographer. This is more of a hobby for me. It was my husband's idea to start selling my photos, so I figured I'd give it a try.

How did you get started?

Just point and shoot! I think my dad was a big influence in my interest in photography. I always remember him with the camera around his neck, especially on vacation. I was amazed at the things I learned from simply reading the instructions for my camera. I can't imagine what I could come up with if I were to take a few classes.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

My mom has called me Apple for as long as I can remember and I have recently become obsessed with the color orange. So, Apple Loves Orange! I do happen to like both fruits!

What would you most want people to know about your work?

Like I said before, I am not a professional photographer! I just hope that people like what I have to offer. I do this mostly for me as an outlet for stress, I have 2 children that like to drive me crazy!

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Do what you love and do it for you! It's mot much, but I am still so new at doing this. I'm rather like a sponge taking in any advice I can get myself!

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Come and take a look at April's photography and while you are at it, check out her other shop as well!

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

Another wonderful member of POE - Photographers Of Etsy is here to to tell us about her work. Please come and meet


Here is our interview with the photographer, Racquel -

Tell us what you make?

Fine Art Photography and Soldered Chainmaille

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

For my jewelry I love working in silver, gold, gemstones and artist made lampwork beads

How long have you been creating craft and how did you get started?

I have always made crafts of some variety ever since I can remember. As a child I was into painting and cartooning. At age 10 I submitted my portfolio to an art college in NY. I conveniently left off my age and won 1 out of 5 art scholarships they hand out each year. Of course when they found out my age (thanks mom!) I of course could not accept the offer. I stopped painting in High School when my AP art teacher decided to break me down and discourage me from pursuing my dreams. This was my 3rd year in the program. Every year at the end of the year we submitted our portfolios to Princeton where you would get a rating of 1-5. If you received 3 ratings of 5 you received a full art scholarship. The 2 years prior I received both 5s and was on my way to my 3rd. Everything I painted or drew in my 3rd year was ripped apart by my teacher and I could not find the will to create any more. I eventually dropped from the class as I could not create anymore. From time to time I will pick up a pencil and do a cartoon but the passion is still not there.

For years I could not create then about 10 years ago while struggling through a horrible divorce I need something to keep my mind occupied. I tried a few different crafts but nothing that I was passionate about. 7 years ago I stumbled upon a bead show and I was hooked. I tried different types of designs but found that I did not like strung designs so I started exploring silver. This is when I discovered the world of maille. After mastering weaves I decided I needed to learn soldering so I set off on that adventure. After many hours and many months (really almost a year) of wasted silver I perfected my craft and it was ready for sale but that was not to last.

With the economy being down and silver being up I had to pack things up for a while. I was going crazy as I need to create to survive. But wait a minute what about that nice camera I used to take pictures of my jewelry? Why could I not create with that? Well I was on a quest to now learn a whole new skill. I bought a ton of books, read many online articles and joined online groups that helped push me to keep growing. After 2 years of practicing and practicing (then upgrading my camera form an XTi to a 40D) I thought it was time that I would try selling my art.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

SM Gemstones comes from Sacramento Mountains which is what I get to look upon every day. Sirius Imagery came from my husband and I combining businesses. His business name is Sirius Group. Yeah, nothing exciting and creative there..

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I take pride in my work and I don’t start selling it until I have mastered the skill. With my photography (while I do not claim to be an expert) I do take pride in letting me alone determine how the image will come out. Even though I have a Canon 40D with all the nice auto features I still shoot the old fashion way in manual, leaving me in full control of the images produced. Most my macro shots are also manually focused allowing me to get closer to the subject than the lens in auto would normally allow.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Learn your trade before trying to sell it. I see too many people who will buy jewelry supplies or a nice camera and immediately start selling their work before mastering it. This hurts all artists especially if you customer is disappointed in the craftsmanship as they will think this is the way it is with all artists. Also once you have mastered your craft charge a fair wage for your skill. Again selling something cheap hurts everyone as customers will learn that our time is not valuable.

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You must visit Racquel's photography shop at Etsy, her nature work is fabulous. Please also take a look at her jewelry shop - she does great work.

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

Here is a photographer that uses her photography to create not only wall art but other craft. She is another member of POE - Photographers of Etsy. Come and meet Jen and learn all about her and her shop -



Here is our interview with Jen -

Briefly describe what you make?

I offer photography in mats, in frames or on cards. I also create photo pendants and crystal sun catchers. I've been using a camera for as long as I can remember, and I mainly focus on nature. The etsy shop, however, includes my work as well as my husband's, who does a lot of the black and whites. The sun catchers started as a fun project last year. I got the idea from Rob's aunt, who also creates them using simpler bead designs. First I purchased the crystals and pretty soon I became obsessed with buying beads. It's a fun, different outlet.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I'd have to say taking macro photos is my favorite way to photograph things right now. I really like the detail you can get from using the lens. I've also been fortunate to be able to photograph many animals, especially pets of friends and coworkers. There is so much expression in their eyes and mannerisms. You'll never get the same shot twice. I'm a big fan of Rachael Hale, a mainsteam pet photographer who photographs these amazing photos of kittens and puppies. In the past year I've been very drawn to horses, and was able to visit a local farm to fulfill that desire.

My husband is much better at using the long lens (I shake too much!). He's captured the majority of our long-lens images. He's also photographed our most popular image, The Temple of Love, which has been sold several times as an 18x22 image.

How long have you been creating craft?

I've been photographing since I was a kid with a cheap 110 film speed camera. I would photograph my cat, Blackie, my books and plants in my yard. Eventually I was able to use my dad's Nikon to do point and shoot photos. But in high school, I borrowed the Canon Rebel (film) from school and fell in love with it. I've been an SLR girl ever since. In high school and in college I was able to learn in the darkroom, and became an Ansel Adams groupie. I was obsessed with trees and really appreciated how he created his images.

How did you get started?

I think I was given the camera as a gift when I was young. If my parents knew how expensive all the film processing would have been, I bet they would have second guessed that purchase!

Where does the name of your shop come from?

When I joined etsy I didn't know how to do shop labels, so I just used my first initial and last name. Afterward, I "renamed" the shop to McGuinness Photography, even though I'm unable to change my etsy name at this point.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

We offer quality photographs and hope they make people as happy as we are when we create them. Some of our best images were taken without time to get a second shot. Rob's Temple of Love is one of these. It was a hot summer day and we had spent three hours outdoors photographing the garden. "Just one more," he told me, and I slumped on a park bench and waited. I'm glad he took that last shot- it's one of the best!

I feel so honored when people purchase images from our shop or at our fair booth and plan to hang them on their walls. It's nice to know that people like to look at the image every day! ;)

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

If people tell you to abandon your craft because you'll be a starving artist, ignore them. It's important to have a creative outlet in your life. If you're fortunate enough to be able to do it full time, that is a major accomplishment! But if you still have to work a day job (like us), that's OK too. I think it's important to evolve artistically, so even a little creating each day can make a big difference in the long run. Also, join a group where you can bounce ideas off each other. I've received so much great support and advice from the people I've met through the Photographers of Etsy team and Etsy for Animals team.

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Jen does beautiful work and if you are short on wall space you will find calendars, cards, and jewelry all featuring Jen's photography at her Etsy shop.

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

We continue our features on photographers with another Etsy Photographers of Etsy member. Her shop is



Come and meet Brenda!

Briefly describe what you make?

I'm an experienced photographer and custom photo art designer. Through both my prints and my custom work, I concentrate on two areas--color and mood. Most of my photographs and designs include close-ups and bright colors. It's what I've always been drawn to as an artist, and I like to share my particular close, colorful view of the world with others.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

There is never a time when I don't have a camera in my hand, be it my beloved Nikon or just my iPhone. I view the world through a photographer's lens, but I also love creating personal art from those views, whether it's digital scrapbooks, custom art prints or even posters and canvas crafts.

How long have you been creating craft?

For me, that's like saying, "How long have you been breathing?" Practicality kept me from an art career, but I've been an artist since birth. I take classes in new media every chance I get, and I believe that all of those experiences have influenced how I capture the world through my photography. A few years ago, I traveled 100 miles every weekend in the middle of winter to learn glass blowing. I was the only woman in the class, and I soon figured out why--the equipment is SO heavy. I had visions of producing stunning vases and bowls, but eight weeks of hard, hot, heavy work showed me just how special it is when someone can produce something beautiful from glass.

How did you get started?

My father was a film photographer when I was growing up, and I was inspired by watching him. I took photojournalism classes in college, and I haven't put my camera down since. I barely had money for film back then, but I loved spending time in the dark room experimenting with all of the different ways to manipulate and improve my shots. Digital has been great in that way, because it really allows you to experiment, not only inside the camera, but once you move to processing through the computer and in final print production.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I'm sure I'm not the first photographer to choose "point of view", but it's really how I feel about photography and photographic art. I am in awe of so many fellow POEs (Photographers of Etsy), but I could never replicate their work, and I hope everyone sees a distinct point of view with mine.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

Photography is probably one of the most under-appreciated art media on etsy. I take anywhere from 100-400 shots for every one I offer for sale. Every situation requires different lighting, filters and lenses, and it's really hard to know what works until you get back to your desk and look at all of it. My custom art prints take even more time, as I search for just the right colors, textures and words to accompany an important photograph. I really care about the quality of the work I produce, and I will only put something up if I truly think it's worthy of a sale. In fact, I've been known to take some of my work down once I see it in comparison to the other offerings in my store.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Do what you love, not just what will make money. I don't participate in sales or buy one/get one offers, because I believe in the value of what I'm offering. Be proud of each and every piece of art you produce, and always be willing to self edit, even if it means ditching something you've been working on for days, weeks or months.

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Brenda has a broad spectrum of subjects in the photos in her shop . She also does custom and personalized work. You must come and see what she has to offer.

This is the time of the year that the gift of a photograph can share and mean so much between you and your loved ones and friends. Come and see beautiful gift items - at all of the POE shops.

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

You have read many interviews with great artists and photographers (who are also artists). It is time that you read a bit about me. This feature features my photography shop - Past Perfect. I, too, am a member of Photographers of Etsy. I have answered the same questions that I ask the other artists who have come to this site to be featured. This interview also appeared on anther site by photographer, theeye, but I wanted to bring it here to let you all know a little bit more about me. So come and meet -




Briefly describe what you create.

I have discovered that with the camera I can capture a perfect representation of a moment in time and then turn that moment into art. I have always been envious of those who can do this with pen and ink, pencil, paint, and paper or canvas. My attempts at drawing have been primitive at best, but with the camera and sometimes with the help of the computer I can achieve the same result.

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

Photography has take most of my time recently, though I work in a number of craft media - as represented in my other Etsy shop, qbranchltd. In addition to photography, I am a woodturner, a woodworker, a fiber artist, a leatherworker, and the list goes on. I go back and forth between them all and at times mix them together.

How long have you been creating craft?

I have been taking photographs since I got my first "Brownie" camera as a child (that dates me). I have had a camera of one kind or another for as long as I remember. I moved from film to digital when digital cameras became affordable. I have been creating craft for sale for over twenty five years - not photography, though. Turning photography from interesting snapshots into an art form, for me, has been recent.

How did you get started?

When I was in college, a long time ago, I took a photography course for a semester. I was taught film developing earlier by my father. Through that I gained an appreciation for black and white photography - simply because this was what you could do at home without an expensive lab. Digital images and computers changed all of that. Now years later I can print color images myself, and I can manipulate them in thousands of ways to get out of them what I want and what I want to express. Teaching myself the use of digital photo software opened a whole new world of creativity for me and started me on this path of art photography.

With the other work that I do, my living circumstances influenced what media I could work with. I enjoy working in wood, but could not do so in an apartment. When we moved to our house, I could create a workshop. Before that fiber arts were my focus as it could be done in a limited space. Now I have the ability to create a space for whatever I would like to try - within limits, of course.

At this point in my life I create craft full time. Two years ago I left a profession that I did not enjoy and with a great deal of support of my spouse started to craft and sell craft full time. When people ask what I am doing I tell them that I gave up a very lucrative profession to become a starving artist. But now I am enjoying life.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

Past Perfect describes the photographs that I am taking. I capture a perfect moment in time - time that immediately becomes the past - and the past is gone forever, except in that photograph that I have taken where it will continue to exist.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

I would like people to know that I get a great deal of satisfaction from their appreciation of my work. I am not really creating for me. I am creating for them. When I make something I keep it where I can see it for a while to be amazed at what I have created. I come back to look at it often, but I know that it needs to move aside for the next thing that I create. But I cannot just cast that piece aside. It needs to be seen and be appreciated. It is mine for only a short time (I hope) and then it goes to be treasured by someone else.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

Know that your work is good and do not be discouraged by whatever anyone may say to the contrary. That work is a little part of you exposed to the world. As you are good, that work must be good. Be confident in your talent and always present yourself that way.

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So please come and take a look at Past Perfect. I know that it will be worth your time.

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER

We continue with our features on fine art photographers who sell their work on the Internet. I introduce you now to another member of the Photographers of Etsy. Here is Julie at



Briefly describe what you make?

I create photography with emotion in mind. If I see a landscape, person, or thing that evokes feelings in me such as beauty, love, or awe I want to capture it in my photography. My ultimate goal is to have my viewer say, "ahhhh!".

What mediums do you enjoy working in most?

I haven't discovered by favorite style of photography yet. I am still experimenting and exploring. I started out primarily in landscape but have recently tried more contemporary urban scenes. I have a great admiration for photographers that can capture the essence and soul of a person or an animal. Both subjects are entirely unpredictable! I'd like to try and expand my skills in this direction.

How long have you been working at your craft?

I have been interested in taking photographs since I was a child. My photography was first published on DenverPost.com in 2000. It has only been the last few years that I have gotten serious about the aspects of fine art photography. Etsy has helped me to expand my audience and grow as a professional.

How did you get started?

I got started professionally with DenverPost.com where my work was featured online for nearly eight years as part a of collaboration with my writer husband. My husband and father-in-law have been my greatest advocates. Both have encouraged me to pursue photography. I trust them both so I just jumped right in and put my own insecure feelings aside.

Where does the name of your shop come from?

I used my personal name for my shop name.

What would you most want people to know about your work?

The most important thing I want to give people with my photography is inspiration. I would love for people to be inspired, awed, happy, contemplative, or just plain moved by my images. I consider photography an art form and as such it should evoke emotion.

What words of advice do you have for other artists?

My advice to other artists is to please yourself first. If you are not totally in love with your own work than you can not expect someone else to love it. Photography is so subjective but I believe if you put your heart and soul in your work those feelings will come across to other people.

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Fabulous! Great work, too! You must go and visit Julie's shop and see what she has.

While you are there please also go and see what is new at Past Perfect. There are some very new and interesting photographs there.