Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathy Peters.
Hi Kathy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Nearly 20 years ago I happened on the art form of paper quilling or filigree for the first time. I fell in love with it and just knew I needed to learn it. I bought a “how to” book and the supplies, and dedicated my four-day Thanksgiving weekend that year to learning this beautiful art.
I have since experimented with some different techniques and combined my love of watercolor painting with my love of quilling. Most of my early pieces were smaller framed art, but my inventory has grown to include all sizes of frames up to 16″ x 20″. My offerings also include custom wedding announcements, a variety of greeting cards, bookmarks, Post-it holders, and ornaments.
Although I have a few in-demand pieces that I have created multiples, the majority of my frames are unique one-of-a-kind designs. As with any handmade items, no two are exactly the same.
I continue to stretch myself and try new things and welcome custom orders and suggested designs.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When I began creating and exhibiting my art, I was still employed full time. It was a challenge to keep up with everything. Then, when the COVID epidemic shut down public gatherings and events, the opportunity to show and share my work all but stopped. It was difficult to stay motivated when there wasn’t an event upcoming. We moved to Florida from upstate New York during that COVID time and that presented challenges to get connected into the local art community. Since that time, though, I have met some incredible artists and really wonderful people who share my love of art.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Shortly after moving to Florida, I retired from my “day job” and began to pursue my creative interests more full time. My love of watercolor painting and my love of paper quilling have allowed me the opportunity to experiment with combining the two art forms in some new and fun ways. I have also just begun to learn a little origami and incorporate that into a few of my pieces as yet another layer.
Many people who visit my displays are not familiar with quilling and I rarely see other quillists at shows where I exhibit. I especially love to allow guests to see the tools I use and try their hand at creating little quills.
I have also expanded into offering workshops to the public in several SW Florida locations. It’s incredibly rewarding to have beginners complete their first piece to take home.
As a member of the Artist Colony of Englewood, I was given the opportunity to paint two of their new street sculptures, a dolphin and a heron in acrylic. There are also a few wall murals that I’ve completed for local businesses.
I am always game to try something new. Not everything is successful, and when they’re not, I just put it behind me and move on to the next project.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My husband is probably my biggest supporter and fan, starting back 20 years ago with that Thanksgiving dinner he never got. 😄
Although he’s not normally a big fan of art, he has begun to look at things through an artist’s eyes. He offers his critiques, suggestions and ideas. He travels to attend shows with me, helps with the packing, the set up, and the tear down.
Mostly he is ready with an ear to listen and an arm to lean on whenever I need it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kathysquills.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kathysquills
