Many of you are already familiar with Anita Rivera of Castles Crowns and Cottages. Now you will learn more about Anita Rivera, Designer and Paper Artist.
1)Anita I know that
you have a real gift for writing very inspirational posts on your very popular
blog Castles Crowns and Cottages. Tell me about how that
began.
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| A Stunning Wedding Gown Centerpiece with Train (not pictured) |
Four years ago, my sister-in-law started a blog. When she told me about it, I had no idea what it was. When I saw hers, I was mesmerized by the creative outlet and opportunity having a blog could provide. I am a teacher by profession but an artist at heart and when I pushed that START button to begin my own blog, it has only been a life-changing experience.
Through writing for a SPECIFIC PURPOSE, I
was able to focus on my real purpose: TO WRITE. Like any other blogger, my blog
has gone through changes for the better. The best thing about blogging is the
connection I have made with women around the world that engage in meaningful
friendships. Writing inspirational pieces is my goal so that someone out in the
world can know that THEY ARE NOT ALONE.
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| Golden Slipper |
2) I do know a bit of your background. How did you get into the teaching profession & what made you decide to leave and pursue the arts and design?
I taught myself French at the age of 34 then my husband encouraged me to go back to night school to get my B.A. in French. Then he suggested I teach. That was a major decision, as I never intended to teach. For 17 years, I went to night school and finally obtained my B.A. in French, TWO teaching licenses with French specialties and my Master's in Education.
My resigning from my full-time post to pursue art and writing came as a shock to my colleagues, but later, they understood that the pressures of being a teacher in today's feebly-equipped educational system is very stressful. A kind and very talented blogger "discovered" my art and has been mentoring me in my art process. I had never thought about being a professional artist, only a writer. But I am focusing on combing the two and as of this June, I will no longer be a full-time teacher but I will return in September as a per-Diem French speaking substitute. Having those French speaking skills comes in handy!
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| Bunny Wand |
3) Who are your mentors or some other artists you admire?
My professional mentor is Lisa Moran from the blog and website, Bilancia Designs. She is extremely talented and knowledgeable and is a great friend. She has been generous in inspirational ideas and guidance. My number one favorite artist is Miss Clara from France and then Isabella Borgrave (spelling??)
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| Castle Print |
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| Paris Print |
4) I have seen some of your amazing works of art. What is your favorite medium and why?
Paper, hands down. I illustrate, but I would much rather work with THREE DIMENSIONAL ideas, to bring a sort of LIFE to an idea, and then combine it with my original poetry and quotes. I am currently working on making life size paper shoes and period dresses.
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| Bluebird Wand |
5) What is on the horizon for Anita Rivera, Designer and paper Artist?
I am looking to connect with a local artist guild AND to début my work in local art events. I was just contacted by a local shop whose owners are interested in my work to sell!
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| Mauve Paper Slipper |
6) What advice would your give to the aspiring artist or designer of any age?
BE BOLD and be productive. However, work from your heart. In my experience as a teacher, I have found that the "market" dictates everything we focus on in education and culture and even art. Yes, if I want to sell and earn a decent living, I must see what it is that people need and want.
But to be a true artist, OBSERVE,
LISTEN to your heart's reactions to life and then produce. Stretch your
imagination and use what you have. See what you can produce with the most
organic of resources. But the most "organic" resource of all is your HEART.
Anita thank you so
much for this enlightening interview and for offering such a beautiful work of art for this
Giveaway!
Enter to win a Fabulous White and Gold Winged Angel Wand made by Anita!!
This Giveaway is International for all Readers
1) Visit Castles Crowns and Cottages and then visit Anita's Etsy Shop: click on it in the right hand column. Come back and tell us what you love the most.
2) Extra chance to win if you post or link to the giveaway on your site
3) Another chance if you post about the Giveaway on Facebook!
4) Yet another chance to win if you Tweet about the giveaway.
So you have 4 chances to win
Please comment separately for me to run Random.org
The winner will be chosen at Midnight EST on Friday May 4th
Thank you so much for your encouragement and support not only of me; of your fellow artists, designers, entrepreneurs, and bloggers!
Now for the winner of the Soft Surroundings $100 Gift Card Giveaway.....is Stacey of Quintessence
Congratulation Stacey, you will love the Quality and great Customer Service at Soft Surroundings
A huge thank you to Michele of Hello Lovely for the beautiful Vintage Gold Crescent Bracelet from her Etsy shop!!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
