Featured Creator- Distressingdelilah

Here's my next featured creator- DistressingDelilah. You can find her work at http://www.distressingdelilah.etsy.com. Like many of the artists I have enjoyed there, she works in a variety of mediums. I was instantly hooked by the unique expressions and colors in her artwork. Have a look!

You have a variety of mediums in your shop- vintage and soldered jewelry, watercolors, digital prints- are any of these techniques a more personal expression for you? Why?
I am learning that it is ok to be "me" when I create. Previously I would paint, draw or make a piece of jewelry..just to make it. Lately my creations are more about me and my experiences and feelings. It has taken a more personal meaning to me. The medium I express most of myself would be digital art. I can use paintings or drawings and blend them with a photo I have taken to create a certain look or feeling. I find it very versatile.

Did you have any "formal training" in any of the mediums your work with?
I started out my college education working towards a degree in commercial art. However my life changed gears with the birth of my first son at the age of 18. I then pursued something more practical...a nursing degree. Now that my sons are older I am getting back to my first love...art. I received my first sketch pad when I was 7, I think!..and have been drawing ever since. I took every art class possible in high school. As far as soldering and jewelry art, I have had to teach myself through trial and error. There is always something new to learn in all mediums of my work though!

Describe your creative process and environment.
Oh my...well, I live in a geodesic dome home that is mostly open concept. I have created a space for my soldering in the back of our house where our washer and dryer is! I have a desk in our front room where I edit and promote on my laptop. My two dogs are my constant companions while I create, always at me feet. The land surrounding me is beautiful and peaceful, and provides many opportunies for inspiration.

Are you a full-time creator? If not, what is your day job?
I wish to be, but alas, not in the real world. I have been an RN for 14 years and currently work as a nursing supervisor at a local hospital.

What is the hardest thing about being an artist?
I find I long for more time! I would sit and create art twenty four hours a day if it weren't for the need for sleep, my real job, my family, a serious running addiction and two needy doggies.