Lovely Ladies Vol 5 Cailin Holmes

I have had this Lovely Ladies post ready to be posted for a while and for some reason, keep forgetting to post it. Which is silly, because this week, I am featuring the oh so lovely Cailin Holmes. Cailin is an incredible fashion photographer and if you are in the bay area and need photos shot for your clothing or handmade collection, she needs to be your go-to girl! I'll let her tell you the rest!

Name: Cailin Holmes

Location: San Francisco, California

Occupation: Photographer, and student at California College of the Arts

Website: www.flickr.com/photos/cailinholmes

How long have you been creating art?: As long as I can remember! My mom teaches elemetary school art and has always encouraged me to create.

What is your favorite medium to work in and why?: Photography! I guess it boils down to the moment. I love capturing "the moment", I suppose that I see it as the closest possible way to capturing a physical feeling.

Where do you get your inspiration from?: I am hugely inspired by the past. I pretty much live and breathe all things vintage and antique. I draw from the careful attention to detail and design from days past that I feel has been lost in modern times. I am going to learn how to make Tin-types soon, it's ridiculously exciting.

What words of advice do you have for new artists?: Try everything! My first mistake was to focus too closely on the medium of art I cared about most. I only took photography classes in my first years of college, but when I started taking classes in other mediums of art I began to see new approaches I could take in my photography and new places it could end up.

What is something that you have learned in the past 5 years when it comes to being a working artist?: I have learned that making money as an artist is time consuming, you really have to put yourself out there, talk to everyone!

What has been the hardest hurdle you have had to overcome as a working artist?: Figuring out the balance between art for arts sake and working as an artist. Sometimes they overlap, but when they don't it is a challenge to make the most of a work situation. I try to approach everything with as much of an open mind as I can so that even when the work seems boring I can learn something from it.

Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?: Rich and famous. haha. I would love to be working both as a professional photographer, weddings, products, fashion and expanding my creative work, I guess just with a little more focus than I have now. I really want to travel around the nation and do street portraiture.

xo, Beca

Lovely Ladies Vol. 4 - Tracy Brown

We are LA bound in a few minutes for a day of West Hollywood Estate sales, the Labrea Tar Pits, good food, beach time, touristy stuff and you know I will be back with lots of photos and videos on Sunday. For now, here is a lovely ladies featuring my good friend and super wonderful lady, Tracy Brown. A little random fact, Tracy now lives in our old house in Tucson, and her boyfriend is on of Doug super good friend. I'm glad I know her and thanks Tracy for doing this feature!

Name: Tracy Brown
Location: Tucson Arizona
Occupation: Artist/Art Teacher
Website: www.zhibit.org/tracybrownart

How long have you been creating art?:

My first memories of making art were as a small child. I became aware of the importance of making art to me in middle school. I’ve been making art consistently for the past 15 years.

What is your favorite medium to work in and why?:

I really love to draw but my favorite medium is acrylic. Nothing can compare to the soothing, calming ability, and satisfaction that is gained from completing a painting. I prefer acrylic over oil because you can achieve a lot of the same effects as oil but it dries faster. I hate waiting for paint to dry.

Where do you get your inspiration from?:

I get inspiration from everything. I’m constantly collecting imagery from magazines, the internet, art history books, and personal photos. Looking at other artist works contemporary and throughout history is definitely important to my process. I love putting my own spin on or distorting pre-existing imagery. Its fun to see what will become of it while creating something totally new and meaningful. I am fascinated by the dichotomy of the dark and playful side of imagery.

Watching my youngest students eyes light up over new concepts or learning about new artist is another source of inspiration. Seeing my older students and work and ideas mature makes me motivated to as well. Making art to kids is like making magic, I don’t think I ever outgrew that idea. I’m always excited to see what will come out of the hat next.

What words of advice do you have for new artists?:

My biggest advice to new artist is to take yourself seriously. Experiment and explore with as many materials, tools, and techniques as you can. Learn your foundations, study art history, and constantly look at other artists work. It’s up to you to get the most of your education whatever route you chose. If this is something you are truly passionate about approach it with realistic standards and of course always dream big. Stick to it and don’t let anyone discourage you or hold you back. Being a serious artist takes a lot of alone time, reflection, confidence, and the biggest thing it takes is discipline. I always tell my students that getting better at art takes practice and discipline just like any other field of study, maybe even more because of its competitive nature. Some people might have a natural inclination for certain forms of art but if it is not fed with discipline, originality, and passion who cares?

What is something that you have learned in the past 5 years when it comes to being a working artist?:

Over the past five years I have learned to accept myself and my work. I feel lucky that I have always had the drive to create. However, having drive does not make up for a lack of confidence. I learned to tone down the negative thoughts in my head and keep a positive attitude about my own artistic growth. If it wasn’t for this innate drive to better my craft I think I would have given up on art years ago. Today I find myself becoming more inspired by great work rather than thinking, I will never be that good. Every artist is unique and learning to embrace my own uniqueness is something I’m proud of.

What has been the hardest hurdle you have had to overcome as a working artist?:
I have overcome the hurdle of establishing a working routine and integrating it into my life. Working with kids all day can be inspiring and incredibly draining. Being able to get into the studio after a long day in the classroom is a huge hurdle I have and continue to overcome. Also, it has been hard for me to except the fact that I have to self censor my online work because of my responsibly as a teacher. I have to remind myself how lucky I am to have the opportunity to teach kids a subject I’m passionate about. Especially, in the state of our education today, art teachers are becoming more and more of an “endangered species.”

Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?:

I look forward to seeing my work continue to mature over the next five years. I hope to gain a larger audience and continue to do so throughout my life. Sometimes my students will say; Ms. Brown, are you a famous artist? I reply with a snicker, “why of course, I teach for fun, and because I love you all so much.” Although I really do love teaching, one day I dream of doing it just for fun. It’s good to have dreams, its part of being an artist.

Have a great day, ya'll. I'll be back tomorrow with lots of photos and videos of our trip!

xo,

Beca

Lovely Ladies Vol. 3 - Sarah Steppelman

I am up to my elbows cleaning my studio this afternoon, but I wanted to take a moment to share with you a very lovely lady. Today, I'm excited to feature my dear friend Sarah. I met Sarah through her fiancée, who is one of Doug's best buddies, and I am so glad to know her. Sarah is so super sweet and makes the prettiest art; full of floral and fauna. Two of my favorite things. And she quotes Morrissey, which makes me love her even more! Lucky girl! Here she is!

Name: Sarah Steppelman
Location: Durango, Colorado
Occupation: Floral Designer/Painter
Website: www.sarahsteppelman.com

How long have you been creating art?:

I grew-up drawing and painting because my father is a painter and always had great art supplies around. I took it seriously when I was fifteen and took a trip to Italy and was inspired by the works by many of the old masters.

What is your favorite medium to work in and why?:Acrylic paint. I can't stand the fumes from the solutions for oil painting, which I lament, because oil handles beautifully.

Where do you get your inspiration from?:Mammals, primarily. Also: forced-interaction, isolation, tutus, albinos, the Rococo. Artists Jenny Saville, Tim Hawkinson, and Michael Hussar. Music by David Bowie.

What words of advice do you have for new artists?:

Take a business class. I never did. Learn to make your own panels/canvases. I am terrible at this, but they are much more attractive than the store-bought variety.

What is something that you have learned in the past 5 years when it comes to being a working artist?:

"Sing Your Life".

What has been the hardest hurdle you have had to overcome as a working artist?:

Time-management. I live in a beautiful place and the outdoors are very distracting.

Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?

Hopefully in my own little mountain studio with lots of light.

Thank's ya'll for reading these Lovely Ladies features. I have so much fun interviewing all these girls. If you want to be a part of this feature, no matter your medium, please email me at tumbleweeds{dot}shop{at}gmail{dot}com.

mucho xo,

Beca

Lovely Ladies Vol. 2 - Yu Yu Shiratori

This week I am happy to introduce you to super rad lady who totally shocked and awed me with her last clothing line. It is dreamy and eerie and pretty, all at once. In contrast her art is bright and bold. Meet Yu Yu.

Name: Yu Yu Shiratori

Location: the bible belt, kansas city
Occupation: i wish i had some rad title, but i'm just working for a retail monster till i can get enough momentum to quit forever.
Website: shop (Free Apples) and blog

How long have you been creating art?:

as long as i can remember. my parents were the first people to show me how awesome it is to draw. they were both always productive, self taught and really independent people, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

What is your favorite medium to work in and why?:

in the past few years i have been focusing on garment construction, so my main medium has been fabric. it's fun to balance volume and texture on a dress form! try it!! screen printing has also been an equally loved affair. try it!! making my ideas tangible helps me to keep my cool.
Where do you get your inspiration from?:

for the most part, my friends (without knowing) are the ones who keep me going. i think i lucked out by meeting so many energetic and truly unique people. i am nothing but a reflection.

What words of advice do you have for new artists?:

SERIOUSLY, JUST DO IT.

What is something that you have learned in the past 5 years when it comes to being a working artist?:

you don't do it for a name, you do it for yourself.

What has been the hardest hurdle you have had to overcome as a working artist?

The fact that making art keeps me sane, if I stop, I will be insane.
Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?:

it will be 5 years older and 5 times better!!!

You should definitely check out Yu Yu's shop because her one of a kind garments are to die for. I still haven't decided if this is going to be a once a week series or just whenever I feel inspired to share. Like I've mentioned before, my schedule is so crazy and constantly changing that it's hard for me to be consistent with weekly features. I guess I'll just do what feels right and if that means posting this three times in one week, I will! So keep checking back. Also, if you are interested in sharing your craft, email me at tumbleweeds{dot}shop{at}gmail{dot}com. The next feature is on a really incredible graphic designer.

xo,

Beca

Lovely Ladies Vol. 1 - Sandra Kafka

So, as I mentioned in my last post, I am debuting a new feature called Lovely Ladies, an artist series, in which I feature one very lovely lady a week who creates art, in all shapes, and let you peek into their world, through their words and images. This week, I am so very happy to introduce to you my friend Sandra Kafka of Backstitch Betty. I have known Sandra for years and have witnessed the incredible transformation she has made with her craft. Sandra is also a huge part of the Tucson Fashion Week, which is slowly growing into one of Tucson's premiere events. So, here she is.

Name: Sandra Kafka

Location: Tucson, AZ

Occupation: Hair stylists & Fashion Designer (and I work at a cafe for fun)

Website: Shop & Blog

How long have you been creating art?:

Well I was always involved in art classes growing up. I took anywhere from ceramics, figure drawing, photography, acting, chorus. I started college for photography and dropped out to go to cosmetology school instead. I have been doing hair professionally since 2005 and making hair accessories and sewing since 2007 but launched my clothing line in 2009.

What is your favorite medium to work in and why?:

I love all things. ha! except I feel I can not paint to put food on the table. I love to knit, especially during the fall and winter.I grew up back east and it is important to keep your core warm, and riding a bicycle around your neck gets really cold. So my bestie taught me how to knit a few years back and I have been in love since.

I really enjoy making skirts and dresses. I feel it is my strongest I adore lace and sheer overlays. This last year I loved making a swim suit collection and hope to do it again this year.

For hair I really enjoy doing color and styles(for weddings and events). I actually got into doing design from working for years behind the chair for local fashion shows. I like creating that crazy messy/put together look. It should be effortless, that is why it is important to have a talented professional team(hopefully they work for trade or charity).

Where do you get your inspiration from?:

oh man! where don't I? I am really inspired by the Arctic. I know it sounds silly for a girl who lives in the desert, but it is true. I love snow and ice. I do love all seasons though as well.I just love nature!!!! I really love a lot of stuff that just does not fly in the South West. Lucky for me I do love skirts and dresses. I think that layers are my biggest inspiration. "okay what can I layer over this or under this to add some texture?" I get really inspired by other's work. It all comes in handy.

What words of advice do you have for new artists?:

Take your time! Learn as much as you can from other's mistakes. Really have your stuff together before you decide to jump feet first into making it a business. It is better to take it slow and really grow than to sink in a big pool of others around you. If you love something go for it! Do not let anyone tell you, you won't be able to make it. There is always a market out there growing, pick something that is fresh and may not be all the rage, but that is lasting. And what I am finding is very important is.. life skills out beat the education they all say you "must have". I am sorry to say it. It might take you a few years longer to get where you want to be, but it is worth it when you get there on your own.

What is something that you have learned in the past 5 years when it comes to being a working artist?:

It is hard! There are always going to be slow seasons, you have to learn to balance out your year. Like I know that almost all year long I will be booked with doing weddings on site, except for june-september.(it's too hot here) I also know that those are the times when I can get in the most of sewing for my fall line. I could not do it all on my own. Without the help of some awesome friends and amazing husband I could not do half the stuff I do. The faith and support of them is helpful during crunch time and shows for sure.

What has been the hardest hurdle you have had to overcome as a working artist?:

Learning not to spread myself too thin. I am kind of a planner but Tucson is very last minute town. So I have picked up on some of those bad habits. The absolute hardest for me was and is pricing my work. I am a bargin hunter, so knowing that I spent such amount of time on a garment and have to price it accordingly is tough for me. I am afraid people won't buy it if it is "too" pricey. But when it comes to hair, I am firm on my cost, due to the fact that I am still paying off school for my skills and working for a corporation helped me with that.

Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?:

ooo! I would love to start making wholesale orders. I am trying out this year for the first time just a few core pieces and just in different colors. Fingers crossed this is how I can run things. I would like to open my own online store (I love etsy but it is huge and over saturated). I would also like to bring in a few friends and work with them a little bit more and help them sell their goods. Hopefully be able to be at home or a studio and work not having to work at a cafe (though I love my job). Big dreams are to open a little boutique with lots of cupcakes being served and DIY classes.

Be sure to stop by Sandra's blog and say hi. If you are interested in being a part of this weekly feature, please email me at tumbleweeds.shop (at) gmail (dot) com! And don't forget to enter in the giveaway contest. It is open until February 27th at Midnight!

xo,

Beca