This month's featured artist is Carrie Murtha of Lexington Kentucky. I got a chance to interview her and ask her about her beautiful collection of unique handmade gifts. Here is what she had to say...
What type of art work do you do?
One-of-a-kind paper-clay animal art dolls.
How long have you been creating?
Ever since i first got my hands on a pack of crayons. As a child, I was always "making things", entering art contests, and taking classes.
How much time do you spend working on your craft?
I spend many, many hours each day crafting.
What inspires you to create?
I feel an innate need to create constantly. It's like eating or sleeping for me...I have to do it. Many things inspire my work....nature, animals, seasons and holidays, vibrant colors, flea market finds, retro toys....
Do you have a designing process?
My process is very organic. I don't do preliminary sketches. My sculptured dolls just sort of evolve as I go.
Where do you do your creating?
I have a bright, sunny room upstairs in my house where I do most of my creating. I also rent a studio room with some other artists here in Lexington.
Have you always been artsy?
ALWAYS!! Growing up, I took lots of classes....pastel, drawing, photography, painting, etc. Then I discovered paper-clay in my 20s and fell in love with it. I have been making my animal art dolls ever since.
Do you have another job?
I quit my job a few months ago when we moved from Atlanta to KY, so now I am trying to make it as an artist full time an exciting and daunting task! I consider my other "job" my cat rescue volunteer work.
Where do you sell your pieces?
Etsy, SpookyTime Jingles, Pfatt Marketplace and at a local KY gallery.
Absolutely! It can be challenging at times, but I am extremely grateful to get to be imaginative and creative every day!
Do you have a favorite piece in your shop?
I would have to say my favorite piece is this piece... Click Here To View I was really pleased when I finished this piece. I loved incorporating an antique clock frame into my artwork. It looks like a little theater, so it feels very magical and fun.
Do you have a blog set-up?
I love blogging and meeting other creative bloggers! Mine is The SnipPet Girl Talks Art and Animals: www.snippetgirl.com
You can see more of Carrie's creations in her Etsy shop TheSnippets
