I'm very excited today, because this marks AnnaKayCreations first blog feature & interview. I would like to introduce you once again to Marilyn Machado of ShapedByHand. She was selected winner in our Product Spotlight for the Month of June, now we'll get a chance to learn a little about the artist behind her lovely creations.
First off, tell us a little about yourself! Typical answer: "Where to start?" lol! Well, I always start by letting people know that I am a hippie at heart. I am free spirited and bursting at the seams to absorb as much life as I can! I'm your average "was stuck in a cubicle and hated it until I was forced to follow my dreams" kinda gal. I treasure my family and friends and don't know where I would be without them! I have a sweet yet insane tortie calico, live in my first home, love to bake and cook, go to the beach, adore music and listen to my iPod in the car, while I workout and while on my laptop.
How did you start creating your artwork, and how long have you been doing it? I have always been creative but I started wire working when I was about 14 and fell in love with its possibilities. I started to wire work when I found some aluminum wire in the "backroom" of our house as a kid, also known as the black whole of unused stuff. I always took my fathers tools and supplies. I started hammering a majority of my designs within the past year.
What do you love most about your craft/business? I adore wire. It can be hard headed and stubborn yet if you know how to work with it instead of against it, it becomes whatever work of art you desire. I am always taking the challenge in life because it makes life more fulfilling for me and I guess that is why I enjoy designing with wire.
What is your most treasured possession? That is a difficult one. I actually have two: A large smoke topaz pendant that my mother bought for me when I was 16. It means so much because my mother didn't have much money and she spent days telling me to find something that I truly wanted that would make me remember her. I always think of that when I wear it. Second is the stuffed bear my father brought to the hospital when I was born. That bear has been at my bedside since I was an infant and always will be.
Where do you get your inspiration from? Nature, music and abstract art.
Outside of crafting what else do you enjoy doing? I enjoy photography, outdoor activities, yoga and sitting at Starbucks for hours reading and drinking a black tea lemonade (sweetened)
Is there anything else you would like to share? It can never be said enough.......FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS!!! If what you want doesn't harm another and fills you with joy, do it! If more of us did, I think that would truly be a key to a happier life which can only lead to a better world.
Links to ShapedByHand: Facebook, Twitter, Blog, Etsy. I hope you enjoyed this feature & interview as much as I did!
Hello! I hope everyone had a great weekend! I just wanted to share this lovely EtsyTreasury that my purple earrings are featured in. This Treasury was curated by Elfie from PaintingFromTheHeart. Enjoy!
Congratulations to Marilyn. M of ShapedByHand. She has been selected the winner in our Product Spotlight for the month of June.
She will have the opportunity to be featured on my blog this month. We'll get a chance to know a little about the artisan behind shapedByHand. Marylin, I will contact you with details shortly.
Today's Product Spotlight we are featuring work by Deborah of Deborah Julian.
"I am a photographer and designer with two bodies of work. I create beautiful giclee prints and photographs from my original art work."
"I also design pretty or sometimes whimsical images using photos of my three cats. These images are not just for cat lovers, although cat lovers embrace the essence of cat behavior in my designs."
"As with my giclee prints and photos, my cat images are unique with emphasis on color and design"
Deborah, your photography is absolutely amazing!. Thanks so much for sharing with us. If you're a cat lover you oughta stop by her Etsy Shop.
P.S. The Product Spotlight winner for the month of June will be announced shortly. Stay tuned! If you're interested in submitting your work to be featured in our Product Spotlight, please email me at annakaycreations(@)yahoo.com or go here for details.
Anna Kay Creations is wishing all US readers a great 4th of July weekend (Independence Day). I was inspired to share a few red, white, and blue handmade items from some of my favorite shops on Etsy. Enjoy!!
Let's welcome today's Product Spotlight Feature by ShayRose
This collection can be a girl's best friend. The shabby chic style can be around you at all times, whether it brightens up your room or makes your outfit classy. These vintage items can give you that modern day shabby chic look you have always dreamed of.
Thank you so much Deena for sharing your vintage "Shabby Chic Collection" with us!
P.S. Some items may have been sold at this time of this spotlight feature. For currently availability please visit ShayRose on Etsy. And, If you are interested in submitting your creative inspiration for our Product Spotlight Feature, please click here
