When putting together the gallery wall in my office, I instantly fell in love with the work of today’s maker. Little did I know that I would have the pleasure of interviewing her a few months later! She has worked with clients like West Elm and Land of Nod and I know you will just love her style. She’s also offering 20% off items in her Etsy shop to all of you with code: CRAFTEDFLIFE15Â (woo!) until May 29th. Without further delay, meet the lovely Kelly of Kelly Ventura Design!
1. Tell us a little about yourself!
Hi, I’m Kelly, of Kelly Ventura Design. I am a Michigan-based surface designer leaving my unique mark on the home, gift and children’s markets with my fresh florals, playful prints and hand-painted patterns.
2. Can you give us a bit of background into what lead you to where you are today?
I began nurturing my entrepreneurial and creative spirit as an inspired five year old, setting up a neighborhood sidewalk stand to sell my rainbow drawings. Many rainbow drawings later, after graduating with a fine arts degree, I found my niche as a surface designer. My introduction into this industry came by way of two important internships in the wallpaper and rug markets; Elizabeth Dow, Ltd and Emma Gardner Design. After having the opportunity to work with both women in their creative environments, I knew I had found my place in the design world.
3. What made you decide to start selling your work?
I have always had a strong motivation to create and have had a number of shops over the past ten years; handmade baby apparel, hand screen-printed apparel and home goods and now art prints.
4. What would you say is the greatest challenge you face as a freelancer? And the greatest reward?
The greatest challenge has been balancing home and work life, which is about to get more challenging with baby no. 3 due soon! The greatest reward has been watching my style and voice develop of the past few years.
5. What has been the coolest part about your career so far? Did you ever image that would happen?
The opportunity to collaborate with a few of my favorite retailers has been a dream come true! The art community is pretty incredible….I feel so grateful to be surrounded and supported by such an amazing community of independent artists on a daily basis.
6. Who or what inspires you?
I find inspiration everywhere, but am so inspired and motivated by others in this creative community building their dream in the same fashion that I am.
7. Any advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
Create a lot of work, every single day, and you will find your style!
8. What’s one fun fact about you that others may not know?
There is no house plant that can survive living with me.
**Be sure to check out Kelly’s website and follow her on Instagram and Facebook! PHOTO CREDIT: Nick Azzaro. Naomi Ernest. Kelly Ventura