Featured Artist: Theresa, Faerie Moon Creations

So, what’s your story? For me, a life without art would be meaningless. I’ve loved art ever since I was a small child. When other kids were outside playing, I was usually indoors, listening to music and creating pencil drawings of my favorite singers and actors. I would draw for HOURS, creating “cartoons” and developing story lines for my creations. I think I got my love of art from my mom, who was a very talented artist when she was younger. She always encouraged my artist proclivities and dutifully visited every school art exhibition I was entered in. In high school, I received commissions from teachers and students to render portraits of family members, boyfriends or girlfriends, and beloved pets. My love for drawing quickly morphed into an obsession for any and other means of creative self-expression…through my college years (where I studied fine arts and journalism) and beyond, I experimented with a lot of different forms of artistic expression – decorative painting (on wood, slate, rock, gourds), candle-making (mainly soy-based), photography, knitting (I am a self-taught lefty).

How did you get started creating your artwork? Family and friends have been urging me to sell my handiwork for years. But I was always reticent to do so – perhaps for fear of rejection or just not being able to find enough time to dedicate myself heart and soul. But lately, the burning desire to create has completely taken me by storm. I had come to the realization that I just would not truly be happy unless I was in a creative mode every single day. And instead of “hiding” my work, I decided to be brave and offer my creations to one and all. Thus, Faerie Moon Creations officially came into being in August 2009. The online community has shown me overwhelming support thus far, for which I am greatly appreciative. I am making some great new friends and finding inspiration from so many other lovely artists.

I try to create items that will have a broad appeal and stay aligned with my theme of nature, whimsy and fantasy…colorful worlds of butterflies, leaves, shells, faeries, flowers and woodland creatures. My knit accessories will follow the same vision of whimsy and playfulness with bursts of color and simple yet delicate design.

Where does your inspiration come from? I’m inspired by a deep love of nature, animals, fantasy, faeries, faerie tales, art, music, poetry, the whispering winds, the shining sun, and the deep blue sea.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 5 years times, I would like to become successful enough to maintain a full-time crafter/artisan status. It truly is my dream to create for a living. Thankfully, I have a most supportive husband who has done all he can to encourage and support me in my goals.

Where do you sell your work? I currently house a shop on etsy: www.faerymoongoddess.etsy.com. I don’t have any plans to expand…yet. My main goal is to offer affordable whimsical and cute jewelry, fine art, and knit accessories. Right now, my shop offers glass pendants and bottle cap pendants featuring a variety of motifs (birds, shells, leaves, faeries, butterflies) and knit scarves (perfect for fall and winter!). I often host giveaways on my blog to promote new product lines or just to celebrate different occasions and holidays. I love giving back!

Who is your favorite artist? There are so many different artists and illustrators that I admire. To name but a few – Pierre Auguste Renoir, Alan Lee, Tasha Tudor, Edward Gorey, Maurice Sendak, Amy Brown, John Anster Fitzgerald, Marc Chagall, Brian Froud, Beatrix Potter

What is your favorite song and by whom? Wow – this is one tough question. There are certain songs that I can listen to over and over again with it growing old. Right now, it would have to be “Do You Realize?” by the Flaming Lips and “Beautiful Day” by U2. Some of my favorite musical artists include Pete Yorn, Peter Murphy, Marissa Nadler, Muse, Sarah Slean, and U2 (how I adore Bono!)

If you were stranded on a deserted island, with your family, what 5 things would you want to have with you? My music, books, photos of family and friends, digital camera, and crafting supplies, of course!

Why do you think people should buy handmade? There is just something so special and magical about making and receiving handmade items. You can take comfort in knowing that someone took time and patience and care in crafting this item – that it wasn’t something manufactured off an assembly line. I personally support many independent artists and crafters. I enjoy attending craft fairs to search out the perfect pair of earrings or the most amazing hand-thrown vase for my living room.

Is there anything else you would like to share? I’d like to extend my thanks to Cafe Handmade for selecting me as a featured artist. I hope everyone has enjoyed learning a little something about me. Please feel free to visit me on my blog or etsy. Should you wish to purchase an item from my shop, type “cafehandmade” in the “Notes to Seller” field and receive 15% off!