Artist Showcase - Pretty Little Thorn

Welcome to this week's Artist Showcase.  Our featured artist is Paula from Pretty Little Thorn. Pretty Little Thorn offers one of a kind romantic and feminine creations, inspired by the Victorian, Shabby Chic, Steampunk, Lolita, Gypsy, Mori Girl and Boho genres.  Here is one of Paula's lovely items:

Bobby Pin Trio

Tell us a little about yourself and your creative business.

I inherited my artistic nature from my mother, who was one of those women who could do it all. I received a diluted dose of her talent, and can't do it all, but realized many years ago that designing unique accessories is both fulfilling and challenging. Today, I work out of my home in San Diego. I sell my designs privately and at local events, as well as online.

Vintage Glass Earrings

How did you get your start?

Years ago, I worked in NYC, in an office near the bead district. I spent my lunch hours wandering in and out of the shops, chatting with the shopkeepers, and exploring their dusty backrooms and basements. The vintage components I found there became designs, which I sold at local shows. A happy accident was discovering a wonderful button shop. I began to collect vintage buttons, which are so decorative on their own, but when grouped together with other elements, they can make an amazing fashion statement.

Steampunk Earrings

Where do you get your inspiration?

I'm inspired by exquisite beads, crystals, filigree, buttons, and all things vintage. The feminine fashions of bygone eras are so inspirational as well.

What has been your biggest successful moment so far?

A professional photographer found my shop on Etsy, and asked if she could take pictures of a model wearing my accessories. Her photos were published, and generated many sales for me.

Statement Cocktail Ring

What challenges do you face selling online?

My biggest challenge to selling online is the phenomenal amount of competition within the marketplace. To combat that, I keep my designs original for customers who prefer one of a kind accessories that can't be found elsewhere.

Statement Button Bracelet

What advice would you give someone just starting out on Etsy?

I think the appearance of an Etsy shop is paramount to attracting shoppers. One very important aspect of that is having clear, bright photographs. Good photographs are often selected for treasuries, which are a great way to be seen.

Vintage Button Barrette

Thank you Paula for sharing your story with us.  Next week we'll select another Etsy artist to feature.  If you would like to be considered, just drop me or Zoica a note via Etsy convo.

Thanks for stopping by...

Until next time,

Artist Showcase - David's Wheel

Welcome to another edition of Artist Spotlight, our regular Monday blog.  This week’s artist is David Huff from David's Wheel. David creates beautiful handmade pottery.  Here is one of David’s beautiful pieces:

 Steampunk Clock with Pendulum movement

Tell us a little about yourself and your creative business.

I am an art teacher and a ceramicist. Though I paint and draw, my passion is clay. I learned the basics of throwing in high school continued with this passion in college. As a freshman, my university put one of my pieces in its permanent collection for promising ceramic artists. While going to school I worked at a factory making clay and glazes for potters, and I threw production (oil lamps and mugs) at a production pottery. Finally, I’ve taught ceramics, photography, and English for over 30 years. I have a small studio in San Diego County where I craft items for local galleries. Right now, my Etsy store is starting to generate interest.

Handmade Pottery Pitcher in citrine

How did you get your start?

I’ve always gravitated to the arts. As a child I sang in choir, drew sets for the plays, or worked late into the night in the art room. I was selling my art in high school. I've always dreamed of making a living with my art.

Where do you get your inspiration?

My inspiration comes from everywhere! I am fascinated by Joseph Campbell’s archetypes: ideas can transcend and connect us to each other. The mundane, seen through an artist’s eyes, can be a catalyst for originality. My inspiration comes from animals, plants, or architecture. Ancient ruins and marvelous modern structures all inspire my very eclectic work.

Handmade Pottery Candle Holder with Leaf Design

What has been your biggest successful moment so far?

Success comes in many forms. Recently, I’m gratified by a showing in a local gallery that carries my work; but I’m finding smaller, more individual successes through my Etsy store. Lately, I find a lot of success in the personal one to one contact from people who like my work in Etsy.

What challenges do you face selling online?

Trying to connect with people interested in 3D art in a virtual world is most challenging indeed. "Virtual" never completely “gets” 3D sculptural media. I’m finding that my background in photography is especially helpful in my Etsy store

Handmade Pottery Candle Holder with Leaf Design

What advice would you give someone just starting out on Etsy?

Find someone who knows how to do advertising or web design to help you develop your site. As an artist, focus on your art. Let plumbers plumb. If I need auto repair I go to an auto guy. As an artist I need to focus on my work. I recommend having a professional get you started. At least let someone set up your store and consult with them as your Etsy business grows.

Sculptural Pendulum Clock with Steampunk Architectural Motif

 

Thank you David for sharing your story with us. Next week we will share another creative and talented artist.  If you would like to be featured, please contact Zoica or myself.  We’re always looking for creative people to showcase.

Thanks for stopping by,

Until next time…