Interview with Brush Magazine!
Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to be featured in a story for Brush Magazine. Brush is a great publication because it focuses on featuring artists from all over the world. It was so exciting to get to discuss Craft A Life You Love and how I started Amy Tangerine back in 2002. Of course, you should definitely read the full story, but in the meantime, take a look at three highlights from my chat with them.
How would I describe my work? Fortunately, every day is different. I’m a scrapbooker, small business owner, YouTuber, collaborator, lover of life. My work has evolved in a variety of ways. The common thread throughout has been creativity in some form. Some days I get to paint and draw and use awesome art supplies. Other days, it’s grinding away doing the tasks most creatives don’t enjoy— emails, computer work, etc. Overall, the fact that my work is creative and meaningful and can speak to others is a huge source of happiness and fulfillment in my life. It feels weird to say this, but I really feel like the luckiest person and I do what I love on a daily basis. Sure, I have bad days, but I get to be creative, find different ways to express it and share it with others.
What advice do I have for aspiring artists? Just go for it! Often the first steps are the hardest to take. It may be challenging, but if you embrace the journey and the process, then who knows what can happen. The creative community doesn’t feel competitive to me. We need more people to pursue their passions/crafts and put those positive ideas into the world. Opportunities can come your way when you share your gifts. My collaborations with American Crafts, Mixbook, and Avery would likely not have happened if I didn’t show my work. And if you’re interested in reading more about my perspective, I go into detail about my path and in my book, Craft a Life You Love - Infuse creativity, fun and intention into your everyday.
What do art and creativity mean to me? Art and creativity are what you make it. They are both subjective. In my world, making art and being creative is essential. I truly believe that everyone is creative. I love the fact that the creative process and experience is different for everyone. Art journaling and scrapbooking allows us to pause when we take the photos, then reflect and relive those moments while recording them on paper. Sharing those memories with loved ones and having an archive of previous moments is so special.
For the full article (which is so gorgeous, I wish it was in actual print!), please go check out Brush Magazine to see my interview along with many other cool artists featured in this edition. What do art and creativity mean to you? Be sure to let me know in the comments.
