How did you become interested in your craft/artwork style?

   It was one of those weird twist of fate things. I was looking for art projects for a group of summer camp kids for Stallion Springs Police Activity League years ago. I stumbles across a candlemaking kit and thought that might be fun. At the time I had no idea just how involved candlemaking really is, but I found out soon enough when the kit arrived and I tried it out. It definitely isn't a project for a group of kids, but I loved it immediately. My husband came home from work, saw the 48 candles sitting on the counter and asked, "What are you going to do with all of those, sell them?" The light went off in my head and the rest is history!

Are you self taught or did you take classes?

   I am self taught through many, many trials and errors! I learned my craft long before you tube videos and have many notebooks full of notes I've made along the way.

Do you work in multiple mediums? What is your favorite?                  Candlemaking is my true love, but I also crochet and create zentangle inspired art which I simply call "doodle art"

How long have you been working in your craft?

    I have been candlemaking since 2001

What inspires you to create?

    I've just always had this drive to make things. Ever since I was a little girl I've love to make things. My mom was a very crafty person, a very talented stained glass artist and fiber artist. She taught me to crochet, cross stitch, embroidery, stained glass and all sorts of other crafts.

Do you create every day?

    Yes! Every day. I even take crochet projects in the car when we're on trips.

What is your favorite thing to create?

    I go through spells, sometimes I'm obsessed with crochet, other times drawing my doodle art. But candlemaking is always #1! I Love getting new orders and being "forced" to go in my shop and create! haha!

What is your favorite part of creating?

    It's calming to me. The colors, the smells, the textures. It brings me peace and settles my spirit.

When is your favorite time of day to create?

    With the candles, anytime. With art or crochet, definitely night time. Especially late night when I'm the only one up and I can lose myself in whatever I'm working on.

What motivates you to create?

    The satisfaction I get when completing a project, even if it's just a little art project that no one else is going to see.

Does art help you in other areas of your life?

    Absolutely! It's such a stress relief.

How has your style changed over time?

    Definitely. It took some time to refine my candleline, and I'm always revamping and offering new fragrances. My artwork has changed a lot. It's gotten more detailed and recently more colorful.

How do you stay inspired and motivated to create new art?

    I think I have some hyper tendencies or something. I always have to be doing something. I cannot just sit still.

Gallery 'N' Gift has been an amazing place to be part of. It's fun to be around so many talented people, learn so much from them and be part of a creative supportive group!