Featured Artist: Amy K Planz, Creative Fly Designz

So, what’s your story? Oh goodness, where do I start, I’m originally from NJ, now my home is SW Florida. I’m in my first year of marriage, and loving every minute of it! I have always been a creative soul. As far back as I can remember, I would always steer myself to the artistic sides of things. All my years through schooling I always focused on art, graphic design, photography, even just general art studies, but you know something, I’m actually more creative now … I enjoy the fact that I can create for me … not for a “grade” .

How did you get started creating your artwork? As I mentioned above, I’ve always been creative, but it wasn’t until about 9 years ago that my brand, “Creative Fly Designz” was born … Here’s the story: “Why a “Creative Fly”? Well… It all started with an idea and a compliment. I was working on a CD cover design about 9 years ago and a friend’s boyfriend said, “Wouldn’t it be cool to be a fly in Amy’s brain .. Then we can see how her creativity works” … I took that compliment to heart, and then created my logo, and then knew I had something special.

Where does your inspiration come from? My husband! We are both artists and photographers, and we feed off each other with our ideas and work together all the time!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? My husband and I would love to open a store front here in Florida and present the world with our creations.

Where do you sell your work? http://cfdesignz.etsy.com – Creative items including Jewelry and Crochet
http://www.shutterstock.com/gallery.mhtml?id=8336 – Stock Photography by Amy Planz
http://www.dpcprints.com/profile.php?USER_ID=368 – Prints for Sale by Amy K Planz

Who is your favorite artist? I have always been inspired by SARK – she is a wonderful artistic soul!

What is your favorite song and by whom? “Little Wonders” by Rob Thomas – it was our wedding song

If you were stranded on a deserted island, with your family, what 5 things would you bring with you? My Wedding Album, my camera (with large memory card), crochet hook, my pink crocs, and my favorite blanket

Why do you think people should buy handmade? People should buy handmade because a handmade item is made from the soul. Care and creativity comes with each piece. Inspiration is always expressed in handmade items, and it’s fun to own a piece of someone else’s story when you buy handmade.

Is there anything else you would like to share? I am always open to ideas and input to make my items better and more appealing to shoppers, if you have any comments or questions about anything I create, please do not hesitate to contact me  and I would like to take this opportunity to say “Thank you” to Café Handmade for this awesome feature spot and Virtual Craft Show concept!! This is really cool and I’m honored to be a part of it!