Rustic Fiber Academy

Does an artist need to have a recognizable style?

I've always found this an interesting question. There are artists whose work I can recognize immediately, and I love that. But I also love watching an artist's work evolve over the years.

My own artwork has changed quite a bit since I first started needle felting, and I fully expect it to keep changing.

Sometimes I'm drawn to realism and all those tiny details. Other times I want to simplify things, play with patterns, or tell a story in a different way.

I don't necessarily want to be tied to one particular style. I enjoy exploring different approaches, and I think there's room for all of them in my work.

But I also think an artist's work can be recognizable even when their style changes. Maybe it's the way they approach a subject, the details they focus on, or something that's a little harder to put your finger on.

I think there's something recognizable about my work, even as it changes. But now I'm curious, when you see one of my pieces, can you still tell it's mine?

And for my fellow artists, is having a recognizable style important to you? Or do you just create what interests you and see where it takes you?

Craft show season is here, so I thought I'd share a little advice for anyone thinking about selling their work!

Sometimes the best shows are the ones you have to apply for months in advance!

There are so many different kinds of craft shows, from small community events to large juried art shows, and they all have something different to offer.

But if you're really wanting to make an income from your work, I think one of the most important things to consider is WHO is coming to shop.

A show with thousands of visitors doesn't necessarily mean thousands of potential customers. Sometimes a smaller show with the right audience can be far more successful.

Do a little research before signing up. Look at the artists who've participated in previous years, how the show is advertised, and whether your work would be a good fit.

And don't overlook those juried shows that require an application and photos of your work. They can be wonderful opportunities!

Remember, there's a lot more invested in a show than just the booth fee. Your time is worth something too!

I have a free craft show resource on my website for anyone interested in giving shows a try.

Now I'd love to hear from those of you who've done craft shows. What's something you've learned about choosing the right ones? Any surprises along the way?

I think we could all learn something from each other's experiences!

It's almost time!

My upcoming exhibit, Experiences in Nature, opens November 6th at Crossroads Carnegie Art Center in Baker City!

I've been working on quite a few pieces for this show, including this red-tailed hawk and magpie. Some you've seen me working on, and others I've managed to keep under wraps. For once!

I'm excited to see all these pieces together in a gallery setting, alongside the work of other talented artists.

The opening reception is November 6th, from 5–8 PM, and I'd really enjoy seeing some familiar faces there!

If you can't make the opening, the exhibit will be on display through November 28th, so there's still plenty of time to stop by.

Come wander through, check out the artwork, and say hello. I'd be happy to see you!

The Wood Duck course is officially available at Rustic Fiber Academy!

This one took me a little outside my usual way of working. Instead of trying to recreate every feather, I took inspiration from traditional wooden duck decoys and had some fun with the colors, shapes, and patterns.

And there's a technique in this course that I think you'll find especially useful! I show you a different way to build up the inner structure of a larger piece without using a mountain of wool. Less wool, less time, less money. I'll take all three!

This is an intermediate and advanced course, included with those Academy memberships, but it's also available for individual purchase.

If you'd like more information about the course, just let me know in the comments!

Happy felting!

A little of this, a little of that!

I've had quite a few projects come out of the studio lately that never made it onto social media.

Some were me playing around with new ideas, others were just things I felt like making.

Figured it was time to give a few of them their moment!

Hold your breath with me!

The wood duck isn't quite finished, but we're getting awfully close!

If all goes according to plan and life doesn't decide to throw something unexpected my way, the course should be available at Rustic Fiber Academy THIS WEEK!!

Fingers crossed!