As you may know, Marin Handmade is very excited to be returning to Art Works Downtown again this year with another Evening of Art and Craft. The event is next Friday, October 12 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and while we have many artists returning from last year's event, we are please to welcome a few new faces this Fall.
Today we start with an interview from Karen Giles of Karen Designs (www.LuxeFabricandYarn.etsy.com). Karen knits and sews the most luxurious scarves from both new and upcycled yarns and fabrics. We think you will find her to be a truly inspiring addition to our group.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I first learned to knit in high school. I took a long, long hiatus, then learned to crochet. After another long hiatus while raising kids, I am now addicted to yarn and knitting…just can’t get enough. In addition, I sell the leftover fabrics of a Bay Area art-to-wear clothing designer and sometimes rescue her scraps and fashion them into something unique and wearable. My sewing skills are less than I would like them to be, but I’m learning!
What kind of artist are you? And what first drew you to that particular medium?
Textile artist. I LOVE color, texture, fabric and fibers. Could just roll around in them all day!
Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I work as a personal assistant/business manager for a woman who is a philanthropist. I’m also very fitness oriented and teach both Pilates & Yoga, as well as taking Zumba classes and weight training several times a week.
Who is your greatest creative influence?
Right now, I’m loving Jane Thornley’s free range style of knitting – it speaks to my inner rebel who yearns to break the rules and I love the idea that there “are no mistakes.” I’m trying to learn to make my “mistakes” work for me as part of the design process. I also love Gina Wilde’s shibori-style knitting. Catherine Bacon, the clothing designer, is always a source of inspiration with her creativity and unique way of putting fabric and colors together.
Please describe your creative process.
I just get ideas. I am inspired by seeing other people’s creations. Nature, colors, etc. all inspire me. My favorite thing to do is start a new project!
What handmade possession do you most cherish?
What I cherished the most is no longer with me, unfortunately. My first crocheted afghan…took me over a year to make…and “disappeared” just before I moved from Hawaii to the Bay Area. So sad.
What is it about living in the North Bay that most inspires your creativity?
Ahh…our beautiful open spaces, the colors – the green hills against brilliant blue sky in the early Spring; the burnished gold hills in late summer; the misty foggy mornings, with the shadows of our hills peeking through…and there are so many other wonderful artists here in the North Bay. It’s like living among many kindred spirits, even though you might not have yet met them.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Retired from my day job, living in a beautiful remote area, spending all my time creating, doing yoga and whatever I want!Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Thank you Karen!
We hope to see lots of people next Friday so please spread the word. And, after you check out Karen's Etsy Shop, be sure to read up on Creek Van Houten of Compass Rose Design who is not only returning this year, but has since become an active member of the Marin Handmade leadership team!
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