FEATURED ETSY SHOP - AISLE 3 STUDIO

I was quite amazed when I saw what this artist could create using recycled items!! WOW, that is quite incredible! That just proves there is no limit to what one can do if we use our imaginations!

Deborah is a part-time art teacher, and artist who lives in Des Moines, Iowa. I'm happy to have Deborah and her creations out here on DZFANTASY as a "featured artist". After learning a bit about Deborah and her unique designs, be sure to visit her Etsy shop - AISLE 3 STUDIO.

What led you to start creating your art/craft?

I've loved Art ever since I was a little kid watching my dad draw with chalk pastels in his makeshift studio in the garage. I took classes throughout school in ceramics, photography, metals, painting...you name it, I took an art class in it! I became an Art Teacher and maintained my love for creating! I'm always trying to do something different and unique that is funky yet functional. Really, I'm aware that my art can be a little weird but I create mostly for me and hope that someone else out there will like it too.

How did you decide what medium you wanted to work with?

Being an Art Teacher, like every other Art Teacher I know, naturally, I find it difficult to stick with one medium and one way of doing something. When I chose to start selling on Etsy I wanted to do a couple of things; 1. do something different, and 2. use recycled materials. While living in Northern Virginia, I began making these photo sculptures that used textures and colors. When I looked at my cereal box every morning, I began seeing textures and colors! I came up with a system that would make the petals I cut sturdy enough to form a functioning bowl or wall hanging.

What aspect of creating your art/craft do you find the most enjoyable?

I love feeling innovative. Lets face it, we live in a world where most of the time people are praised for following directions and going mainstream. I feel lucky that my job encourages my creative side to shine. I'm inspired by my students when they create something new and feel so accomplished. I love taking that inspiration home with me and putting that energy into becoming innovative in my own Art!

If you had to choose a fruit OR a vegetable, to describe your art/craft, what would you choose, and why?

Hmm, I would have to say a Pineapple! It just so happens to be my favorite fruit, but is also pointy on the outside, like the edges of my sculptures and has a bold sweet flavor inside.

If you had to choose one other medium in which to display your “creativity”, what would that be, and why?

Ceramics, totally! One day I would love to open my own ceramics studio. I just love the feel of clay and all you can do with it. I toured a pottery studio when I was in Atlanta visiting Amnieva (also on Etsy), and just loved the atmosphere in this studio. Clay was everywhere, people were throwing pottery. It's such a flexible material. I tend to think 3 Dimensionally so I love ceramics.

What message, if any, do you want to convey with your art/craft?

I want to show my ability to see the beauty in everyday things that others might not have ever considered. I also want to show that you can still be an Artist and a creative individual when using recycled materials.

What advice do you have for other artists/crafters?

Do what YOU like, not what you THINK others will like. I have made some serious crap trying to come up with what I thought others would want to buy. The thing is, that's never going to work or make you happy. I think people can tell if you like what you do or make. It shows in your work.

Thanks, Deborah for sharing your ideas and creativity with us. I know when I look at cereal boxes I will see them in a new light after seeing what you can create with them! You can see more of Deborah's work by clicking on the links below.

AISLE 3 STUDIO BLOG