Words hold powerful meaning, but more powerful than that is the feeling behind them and the emotions that they can evoke within you. I've recently rekindled my love for poetry, and with that have come across so many amazing artists in that process. One of the artists that particularly captured my heart was Wilder. The way she combines imagery and words to create a visual story captivated me and put to words so many emotions that I could only wish to express within myself. With that, I'm so thrilled for you to meet her and to be touched by her beautiful work.

Wilder takes you on a visual journey through her Instagram feed, pairing her powerful words with images that will be sure to strike a chord within you. She uses a feminine tone in most of her pieces, and you can't help but instinctively place yourself in her character's shoes. Combining both light and dark moods, there is so much emotion within all of her pieces, and they force you to confront those inner thoughts that maybe you've never known how to express or - better yet - never knew existed.

To be wild is to be free, which is a recurring theme throughout and embracing everything about what it means to be wild + free - the beautiful, the ugly, and everything in between. Let her work take you on a wild journey, refresh and inspire you, and give you all the feels your heart can handle. Intertwined within her wilder themes, there are also stories of love and all of its deep complexities. Wilder is raw. She is deep. She's a truly unique artist that I am so happy to have came across because her work has really touched my spirit. Get to know her a bit more below + show her some love by visiting her on Instagram and discover the entire Wilder Poetry visual experience for yourself.

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Q & A

WILDER

wilder poetry

chicago

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | twitter

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TELL US ABOUT WHAT YOU DO AND HOW YOU DISCOVERED YOUR LOVE FOR IT.

I am an artist. A creator. One of those types that tries a bit of everything to find a beautiful place to land. Here...now...I find myself in this world of poetic freedom. Writing words to feel and see, to rest my head and heart. What began as an outlet for my creative broken heart has turned into a true love for my mind, body and soul. Mixing visual aesthetics through typography and photography and allowing the story to be told tile by tile on Instagram’s simplistic spread. My discovery of this passion was a completely organic experience. An unexpected treasure that has changed my world.
 

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE AND AESTHETIC?

Peculiar. Delicate. Moody.

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?

Forgiving. Passionate. Unique.

WHAT EMOTION(S) DO YOU TRY TO EVOKE WITH YOUR WORK?

Inspired. In everything that I touch, my hope and desire is to always inspire - myself and others. To offer someone the opportunity to see things differently. To have one embody a feeling within that makes them look at themselves or the world differently. There is no greater gift.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT SETS YOUR WORK APART (YOUR SIGNATURE), AND HOW DID YOU DISCOVER IT?

A few months ago when I was browsing my favorite poet’s account (@atticuspoetry), I found myself inspired...his words so often leave me blanketed in this emotional state. Leading up to this moment I was feeling creatively broken, like a dark light was casting shadows all around me - creating barriers that I could not escape. I remember the moment distinctly - reading his words and feeling this nudge within telling me that I, too should create words to feel and love. That day, I created Wilder Poetry and haven’t steered away since.

There are so many talented poets on Instagram, but I knew I wanted to create an experience...not only through my words but through visuals as well. I wanted my gallery to tell a story. That is when I thought to look outside of those small tiles - to expand the eyes beyond those lines. I call it a “grid” layout - I certainly am not the only one that incorporates this into their gallery, but the entire collection of my space embodies this presentation. Each individual tile is home to one poem - giving the individual space something of value, but upon viewing my entire gallery feed, there is a larger story to be seen.
 

DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF AND CAN’T LET GO OF.

Oh my! This is so difficult. I find myself falling in love with certain collections of my poetry with every new posting. My process is rather quick - writing short poems in abundance (having written just over 800 short poems in 4 months) looking back, it’s as if I wasn’t the original writer. It’s a surreal experience. Upon looking at my gallery now, I would say my favorite piece(s), because I truly can’t pick only one, is “be still the wolves are coming” and “lay your monsters down”

There is something so evocative to me in these - so few words - but they make the mind go wild.

HOW DO YOU STAY INSPIRED, AND WHAT INSPIRES YOU ON A DAILY BASIS?

The connections I have made in such a short time...my goodness how unbelievable they have been. To be surrounded by their endless love and support. Truly, this is what keeps me going...this is what keeps me inspired to continue writing words and creating these stories through visual presentation. What began as a self healing project for myself has turned into something that is for all of us. It’s one of the most beautiful things I have ever been a part of.
 

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’D GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO IS STUCK AND WHO WANTS TO DISCOVER THEIR PASSION?

Surround yourself with things that are beautiful to you. Whether it be words, photography, textures, colors, music...anything. This can be something that is tangible, but also digital. I turn to Pinterest, blogs and Instagram for inspiration near always. In this space, there is an endless world of possibility. To me, it is transformational. I have discovered and rediscovered myself and my passions time and time again. Like a new chapter in a book that keeps getting better over time.

IF THERE WERE ONE THING YOU’D WANT TO BE KNOWN FOR, WHAT WOULD THAT BE?

I would want to be known as someone that is kind. No matter the day, no matter the time. Kindness, to me, is what makes the world go round. It costs absolutely nothing to be kind. It has its own universal language and through kindness we inspire others to be kind as well.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH WITH YOUR WORK WITHIN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS?

Honestly, I feel as though Wilder is leading me. I am not leading it. Several opportunities have surfaced over the last month that I am incredibly excited to share (very soon). My hope is that Wilder will continue to be very alive on this platform and in every way that make sense. I have a love for beautifully tangible things. To have my words in the hands of others, in one way or the other would be the greatest dream come true.

I AM ...

humbled by this opportunity and all the others that have been gifted to me. Mostly, I am thankful and honored that so many have found something to love inside the story of Wilder.

I BELIEVE ...

I believe things happen for a reason. My life has been a continuous roller coaster of ups and downs. Dark and light moments that have shaped me into the very person I am. Here I am doing something that I never expected - and the path has been so unbelievably beautiful.

I LOVE ...

fog, moss filled forests, wildflowers, creatures of this earth -  all of the beautiful things that make the color wild.

MY GREATEST FEAR IS ...

living life in fear.

My greatest lesson in life so far is ...

to never underestimate your capabilities. Our passions are passions for a reason. Never stop fighting for the things that your head and your heart want.

I am proud of ...

my overcoming my recent darkness. It is a space I rarely find myself, this most recent experience was particularly paralyzing...but here I am, on this new journey finding myself along the way and how beautiful it has been.

My greatest accomplishment is ...

living life fully...every day - no matter how many monsters may be knocking at my feet trying to take me down!

A quote I live by is ...

I am going to make everything around me beautiful - that will be my life. Elsie De Wolfe

My idea of a perfect day is ...

a rainy day! There is something so beautiful about grey clouds resting above my head -  rain against the window while I work, read, create.

My dream is ...

to touch the lives of all those who cross my path during this life.

I will ...

not be defined by my failures, for my failures are the stepping stones that deliver me to this wildly beautiful path I call growth.

I can't get over her, isn't she an amazing soul! So much beauty in her words and in who she is. What's interesting is that she and I have a lot in common - we're both graphic designers and have an overall sense of creative passion in the type of work that we choose to do. I can completely related to her when she said that she "tries a bit of everything to find a beautiful place to land." I can totally see myself in that statement. Her story is beyond inspiring and encouraging, and I hope that it has given you a sliver of light in your personal journey as well.

To show your support for Wilder, be sure to watch out for her very own book, "wild is she", which is scheduled to release in August 2017. Wilder will also be working with The Colour Wild on an ongoing collaboration - a collection inspired by the wild. So many exciting things are in the works for her, and I can't wait! Be sure to stay in touch with Wilder for more updates by following her at the links above.

*CHEERS* to Wilder and to the amazing wallpapers below that she collaborated with me on and made with love for all of you! Happy downloading, beauties.

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“OOLALA! LOVING THESE FREE WALLPAPERS!
GET YOURS HERE.”

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Thank you so much for stopping by and sticking around until the end of this post. Isn't Wilder amazing! Please do me a favor and show her some love at the links provided above, and let her know that I sent you (to stalk her, of course). There are tons more free wallpapers available at the button below, so click it and be happy because free stuff is always a good idea! To stay in the know of all current happenings, you can follow me along on Instagram ( @hlovelyliving ) for exclusive content that I only share there. If you tag me on your photos of you using your wallpapers, I'd love that so much because that means that you're enjoying them, and that means I'll keep them coming!

What inspires you about Wilder's story? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. Photos belong to their respective copyright holders. I love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

There's a Boss Babe in Oklahoma City that I've had the pleasure of getting to know from the very early stages of her starting her business. She's my favorite Boss Babe in all of Oklahoma, not only because I know her personally, but because I can't help but love her! Her name is Mai, and she's one of the sweetest people you will ever have the chance to meet. Her bubbly personality and bright smile fit perfectly with the type of business that she chose to pursue - an open air photo booth company. Read on to learn more about her story!

Upon sharing our stories with each other, I quickly discovered that we both had a very similar job experience that impacted us in very big ways, which was a major influence for us wanting to pursue a more rewarding and fulfilling career path. It was a relief to know that I had someone to relate to and that I wasn't the only one that was trying to figure things out after what seemed like a life-changing experience. Interestingly, our negative job experiences both drove us to be self-employed, and here we were coming together and really supporting each other in that process.

It's amazing how having someone to relate to can easily put things into perspective because many times, we feel alone. Showing you that you aren't alone is one of the main reasons why I started doing these features. I want you to know that you have so many people and stories to fall back on and to be encouraged by. 

I'm so proud of her and what's she accomplished so far, and I can't wait for you to get to know her. Without further ado, let's do just that!

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Q & A

MAI NGUYEN

PIKCHER BOOTH

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

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WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST TURNING POINT IN YOUR LIFE THAT MADE YOU WANT TO PURSUE YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

After quitting my job that made me very unhappy, I started to seek new opportunities. My turning point was realizing I didn't want to continue my profession. My experience in the corporate world made me realize it wasn't for me. I decided to follow my passion and create a new path that lead me to pursuing my own business.

HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU MADE THAT DECISION?

I was definitely scared. Scared about the change, scared about the future, and scared about not making it. I still fear about it all, but I’m also very proud of myself for taking that first step, the hardest step.

WHAT INSPIRED AND MOTIVATED YOU TO FOLLOW THROUGH WITH YOUR DECISION?  

100% my fiancé Jordan Trabue, he believes in me more than I believe in myself. It’s his love and support that keeps me going <3.

WHAT WERE THE FIRST STEPS YOU TOOK TO GET THE BALL ROLLING?

After deciding that I wanted to start my own business, I had to ask myself THE QUESTIONS: What do I enjoy doing? How can I incorporate that into a business? Is there a demand for this kind of business? Once I said yes confidently, I began to educate myself about the industry.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AND WHY YOU CHOSE TO PURSUE THAT PARTICULAR BUSINESS.

pikCHER booth is an open air photo booth that can service to just about any kind of event you can think of. It is group friendly and made to be enjoyed by all ages. My clients and their guest have the time of their lives creating moments in the photo booth. It's a great feeling to be able to capture these moments and an even better feeling when the photos are proudly shared with their family and friends.

WHAT TYPES OF CHALLENGES HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED SO FAR AND HOW ARE YOU OVERCOMING THEM?

Honestly, it’s been a challenge from the very first day I decided to start my own business. My list can fill a couple of pages if I listed everything in detail. At this moment though, my biggest challenge is getting more bookings for this year. The bookings will exhibit how well I’ve done and set the tone on where my business stand for the upcoming year. I intend to reach out to local business in hopes of doing some promotional work and will also continue to push in my social media marketing efforts.

WHAT PRINCIPLES AND VALUES HAVE YOU BASED YOUR BUSINESS UPON AND HOW DO YOU HOPE TO CARRY THAT THROUGH TO YOUR CUSTOMERS?

One principle I can apply from my past business experience is how you serve your clients. Your clients will make or break your business. Serve your clients with respect, love, and passion, and success will follow.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT HAVING YOUR OWN BUSINESS AND BEING YOUR OWN BOSS? 

I love the fact that I can utilize my creativity and talent on a daily basis. My personality is also able to shine through my business, from verbiage to presentation, I am presenting my authentic self. To be my own boss means I don’t have to worry about anyone telling me what to do and I get to set my own schedule. It is freakin' AWESOME but….that also means it’s up to me  to get things done.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH AND WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS IN 5 YEARS?

To be featured in an Oklahoma magazine as a well respected and reputable business would be the ultimate accomplishment. In 5 years, I will expand and provide opportunities to those who desire to work in a non corporate environment. Entrust a team to help run the business so that I am able to focus more time on traveling the world with my love ones.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO IS CONSIDERING STARTING THEIR OWN BUSINESS? 

Believe in yourself that you can do it, and don’t use excuses to keep you from moving forward.

I AM ...

authentic.

I BELIEVE ...

you can direct your destiny.

I LOVE …

life.

MY GREATEST FEAR IS …

not having enough time to do all the things I want to do with the people I love most.

MY GREATEST LESSON IN LIFE SO FAR IS …

truly loving myself and knowing my self worth.

I AM PROUD OF ...

the woman I’ve become and all that I’ve accomplished so far.

MY GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT IS ...

graduating college. Poverty and war limited my parents from getting any kind of education, they lived vicariously through me, so when I became the 1st generation to graduate, it was a huge success for my parents and my family.

A QUOTE I LIVE BY IS ...

"The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will” - Vincent T Lombardi

MY IDEA OF A PERFECT DAY IS ...

Waking up cuddled up next to my soon to be husband, followed by HIM cooking me a healthy delectable breakfast ;) 

MY DREAM IS ...

to be financially stable enough to take care or my parents so that they can retire and enjoy life.

I WILL ... 

keep pushing forward no matter what.

One thing that was most inspiring to me about Mai's story was that she left a job that made her unhappy and took a huge leap of faith to pursue a more rewarding path. She didn't have a back-up-plan, but she did have the drive and determination to see it through. Not everyone may want to do what she did or have the means to go to that extreme, but Mai's story proves that it is possible. If you are unhappy with where you're at in your professional career, you can change that. It's never too late! You will always have time to rewrite your story and to create a life that you are truly happy with.

If you're looking for an open air photo booth to service your event in Oklahoma City or the surrounding metro areas, Mai is your girl! pikCHER Booth was recently featured in Brides of Oklahoma in their Fab Finds for the Oklahoma Bride and is listed as a preferred vendor. Yes, she is your go-to woman and is the sweetest person to work with! She offers superior lighting with high resolution digital downloads, custom props and backdrops, and an online gallery. To see all of her available packages and samples of her work, click here. With wedding season just around the corner, this is the perfect time to book an event with her and start working out the details. Make sure to give her a follow at her social links listed above in case you ever need to book her for your future event!

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I hope Mai's story adds a little fire to your day and that it inspires you to never settle for less than what you deserve! You deserve only the best, and if you aren't satisfied with your current position in life, you can change that! Take it from Mai to crush fear and face those goals of yours with the will to see them through no matter what. Have an amazing rest of your week, and as always, stay beautiful! 

What inspired you the most about Mai's story? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Meet Chelsea Vaughn, my featured artist and boss babe for this week's Wallpaper Wednesdays! If you're drawn to a calming, cool-toned, and white color palette with a sprinkle of watercolor and hand lettering - you may just end up like me and not be able to get enough of her work. Who am I to not invite her to create free wallpapers and to share her story? You know I just had to introduce you to her!

Chelsea is the founder and owner of Ten Acre Paper Co. - a creative paper goods business focused on the art of watercolor and hand lettered designs. One of the first words that come to mind when I think of her work is clean. Her work truly stands out on its own without any distraction - and when viewed together as a whole, forms a cohesive brand that is so tranquil and calming. Okay, so let me just show you some of her work so, you too, can be amazed!

Didn't it just woo you just now? Scrolling through her Instagram feed, you will be delighted with quotes like the one above in her signature hand lettered style along with beautiful imagery that makes you want to keep scrolling. Recently, I've noticed that she's been adding a few new things to her shop: watercolor states and new wedding suites, which you can take a peek at below. In her Etsy shop, you'll also find a collection of art prints, cards, and stationary. She's been getting busy since she launched her shop in June of this year (2016) and has already created quite an impressive selection to choose from.

Can you see how it's totally not hard to fall in love with her work? It speaks for itself. I have been over here rooting for Chelsea ever since I discovered her because I absolutely love what she does and how true to her style she is. I can't wait to see what she comes up with as time goes on, but a little birdie did tell me that she'll be coming out with some new bookmarks and Christmas pattern cards soon, so that's something to look out for! 

Let's get to know Chelsea even better and be inspired by her journey so far as a creative entrepreneur. Then, scroll to the bottom of this post to see + download all of the lovely free Fall + Thanksgiving wallpapers that she designed for you all to enjoy!

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Q & A

chelsea vaughn

ten acre paper co.

Holly Springs, North Carolina

website | etsy | instagram | facebook

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WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST TURNING POINT IN YOUR LIFE THAT MADE YOU WANT TO PURSUE YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

I think the biggest turning point was realizing that it was actually something I could do! I feel like there is always a fear behind doing something on your own, without complete knowledge of the whole process, but you learn as you go and it has been a great experience for me so far. // “Great people do things before they’re ready” - Amy Poehler

HOW DID YOU FEEL WHEN YOU MADE THAT DECISION?

It was so great and pretty freeing, actually. Obviously there was a lot of work ahead, but when you do something that you have so much passion and drive for, the work is pretty enjoyable :) - And it was so exciting to start on something this big from scratch and be the one in charge its whole creation - so many possibilities!

WHAT INSPIRED AND MOTIVATED YOU TO FOLLOW THROUGH WITH YOUR DECISION?  

Reassurance and support from my husband, my family and other entrepreneurial creatives - then confirming with myself and being confident that I could do it! I also listened/watched a good amount of free webinars and videos by other creatives that were packed with super helpful and interesting information and they really inspired me to stay confident about this big decision!

WHAT WERE THE FIRST STEPS YOU TOOK TO GET THE BALL ROLLING?

I made a list of everything I could think of that needed to be done before launching and went step-by-step until the end! I did a lot of research, talked to a friend who is a great CPA, thought of a name (which took so long! I also blogged a little about this process), gathered inspiration, created a cohesive brand for TAPC and started brainstorming + creating my first products!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AND WHY YOU CHOSE TO PURSUE THAT PARTICULAR BUSINESS.

Ten Acre Paper Co. launched in June, 2016 with a passion for watercolor and hand lettered design. Beginning with a focus solely on greeting cards and art prints, TAPC has already expanded to include stationery, wedding suites and custom paper goods! Ten Acre Paper Co. is all about finding space for the meaningful things in life and I hope my designs help remind you to do so.

I chose to pursue a creative paper goods business mainly because of my love for tangible art. I love being able to hold an art print or receive a greeting card in the mail from a friend. I am a full-time graphic designer by day and am facing a computer screen a good bit, so this was a great way for me to explore my hobby and expand my creativity by working with my hands.

WHAT TYPES OF CHALLENGES HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED SO FAR AND HOW ARE YOU OVERCOMING THEM?

A big challenge for me is trying not to over do it by doing too many things at once! You’ll see that I listed the quote I live by as “you can do anything, but not everything” - and it’s something I struggle with all the time! I have so many ideas running around in my head and sometimes it’s hard to figure out which to really pursue and prioritize. I also want to be as productive as possible and do things that are best for my business, so the decision to do one thing over another is sometimes daunting!

WHICH PRINCIPLES AND VALUES HAVE YOU BASED YOUR BUSINESS UPON AND HOW DO YOU HOPE TO CARRY THAT THROUGH TO YOUR CUSTOMERS?

As I mentioned briefly above, Ten Acre Paper Co. is all about finding space for the meaningful things in life. Other principles and values that build up TAPC are being bold, brave, kind and mindful. I try to not only portray these principles and values in my art work, but also incorporate them into my own life. I believe that living out the things you promote is one of the best ways to carry it through to others.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT HAVING YOUR OWN BUSINESS AND BEING YOUR OWN BOSS? 

I’ve come to really love having my own business and being my own boss because of the amazing freedom. I grew up as an only child and have always been pretty independent, so I think that characteristic funnels well into doing this on my own and staying motivated. I also generally have a tough time making big decisions, but this position has really pushed me to learn to think quickly and act upon things that need fast turnaround. I also love that I am involved in all aspects of running my small business - from gathering supplies, keeping track of accounting info, communicating with clients and setting up collaborations with other creatives to, of course, creating the artwork. I’m always learning something new!

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH AND WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS IN 5 YEARS?

In 5 years, I’d love to be a well-known paper company that offers many more products and variations of paper goods that really exemplify the principles and values of the Ten Acre Paper Co. brand. I can’t wait to grow personally as well as creatively and really hone my watercolor and lettering skills - maybe even branch out and explore other techniques! I also hope to build connections and friendships + collaborate with many, many more creatives.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO IS CONSIDERING STARTING THEIR OWN BUSINESS? 

Four things-

1. You can totally do it.

2. Have patience and don’t feel discouraged about taking small steps.

3. Reach out to other creatives and connect to those within your local community.

4. Build your business around principles and values that keep you positive and motivated.

I AM ...

excited for the future.

I BELIEVE ...

in working hard for your dreams and doing whatever it takes. It doesn’t come easy, you’ve gotta earn it!

I LOVE …

my friends and family, comfy jeans and striped t-shirts, decorating my home, connecting with other creatives, the fall season and everything that comes with it, coffee, netflix, mountain views, black and white photographs, laughing endlessly with my husband and staying up late!

MY GREATEST FEAR IS …

taking something for granted and not realizing it until it’s too late.

MY GREATEST LESSON IN LIFE SO FAR IS …

things happen and sometimes you’ve just got to say “c’est la vie!” ( aka: “that’s life!” )

I AM PROUD OF ...

my continual motivation and drive for this company.

MY GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT IS ...

marrying my husband, Spencer.

A QUOTE I LIVE BY IS ...

“you can do anything, but not everything” - David Allen

MY IDEA OF A PERFECT DAY IS ...

open-ended watercolor at home in the morning light with coffee and a candle, a walk in the park with my husband (+ our future dog :)), an afternoon nap + snuggles with my cat Ferris, dinner out at a cozy/casual/southern-style restaurant and then champagne and cake back at home with board games and Netflix.

MY DREAM IS ...

to leave a positive impact on the world in more ways than one.

I WILL ...

never stop trying to improve.

I love Chelsea's story! The idea of starting a business from scratch is overwhelming to say the least, but once you make up your mind, there is nothing that can stop you from making it happen. An idea may sprout in the mind, but in order for it to grow, you have to be the one to bring it to life. Chelsea is the perfect example of someone who had an idea and who did not let the fear of the unknown stop her from figuring things out and paving her own path. She had a plan, stuck to it, and the most important part - she was confident. Her turning point was that she knew she could do it! It's amazing to think that she just started this journey four months ago. Look at what she has built thus far, and she's only getting started.

Chelsea's story is so encouraging, isn't it! Realize that you too, are capable of walking out your dreams and are able to create something amazing from scratch. You don't need to know everything, you just need to be willing to take the first step and learn along the way. There's no better time than now to take your ideas and make them a reality. Move your ideas from the stages of dreaming to doing, and you will see incredible things happen just as Chelsea has. Have confidence in yourself and trust in the process that you must go through to get to where you want to be.

Cheers to Chelsea, another inspiring boss babe who touches us not only with her story, but with her beautiful work!

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“Oolala! Loving these FREE wallpapers!
Get yours here.”

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Thank you so much for stopping by and sticking around until the end of this post. Isn't Chelsea amazing! Please do me a favor and show her some love at the links provided above, and let her know that I sent you (to stalk her, of course). There are tons more free wallpapers available at the button below, so click it and be happy because free stuff is always a good idea! To stay in the know of all current happenings, you can follow me along on Instagram ( @hlovelyliving ) for exclusive content that I only share there. If you tag me on your photos of you using your wallpapers, I'd love that so much because that means that you're enjoying them, and that means I'll keep them coming!

What inspires you about Chelsea's story? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. I love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

Amy Jade Lore of Amy Jade Designs and Beautycounter is one busy woman. As if one side hustle wasn't enough, she decided to take on the world with two - while still managing a full-time job. I think we can all agree that having a full-time job is demanding in and of itself. Just how she manages to juggle the demands of all three is beyond me. Go Amy!

Based out of Montreal, Canada, Amy is a graphic designer and calligrapher and founded Amy Jade Designs, where she combines her two creative talents to design lovely commissioned pieces. Her passion soon led her to Beautycounter, a company whose goal is to get safer personal care products into the hands of everyone. As a Senior Consultant at Beautycounter, Amy has found purpose in spreading the mission and purpose of the company and in educating everyone about the benefits of choosing safer personal care products.

Let's get to know Amy a bit more! I asked her a few questions that I really felt would help all of you aspiring boss babes in your personal walk. It helps to get to know other women on a more personal level and to understand that we are all figuring things out one step at a time. I hope you enjoy this!

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Q & A

amy jade lore

Amy Jade Designs and Beautycounter

INSTAGRAM | EMAIL | WEBSITE

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What was the biggest turning point in your life that made you want to pursue your own business?

I’ve always had my freelance Graphic Design and now Calligraphy business on the side of my 9-5 day job. When I discovered Beautycounter and began researching their company’s mission of getting safer beauty products out to the public and creating awareness, I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of. I was sent the “We deserve better” video, which talks about the lack of regulations in the beauty industry, and I was so shocked by the statistics and immediately wanted to help share this message with friends and family.

How did you feel when you made that decision?

I was a little nervous about the new challenges it would bring, but mostly extremely excited for the future.

What inspired and motivated you to follow through with your decision?  

Being my own boss has always been something I’ve wanted to do. I enjoy the flexibility but even more I enjoy being a part of something that matters. When I introduce someone to a Beautcounter product, like the Charcoal Cleansing Bar, and it helps clear up a skin issue that they have been struggling with for years, I find it extremely fulfilling and it makes me want to continue this journey.

What were the first steps you took to get the ball rolling?

One of the things that made the transition of joining Beautycounter as an independent consultant easy is all the training and information available. As a consultant, I am connected to a mentor, who basically has guided me through the initial process and answered any questions that I have. The company also has an influx of “how to” materials that really walks you through the steps of creating a successful business and being a successful independent consultant.

Tell us about your business and why you chose to pursue that particular business.

Unfortunately like many people, a lot of my friends and family have health issues. All four of my grandparents have had cancer, and one thing I hear constantly is that, had they known at a younger age that the things they were doing when they were younger were not good for them, they would have avoided it. Now we have so much information at our fingertips about making safer choices, so the idea of being able to spread this knowledge has definitely given my decision to enter this business a purpose.

What types of challenges have you experienced so far and how are you overcoming them?

I’ve always been a little bit of an introvert. The idea of trying to market myself as an artist and reaching out to new contacts, at first, was daunting. However, there are so many tools available to overcome these fears. I find that social media, such as Instagram and Facebook, has been wonderful to really connect with others and to be a part of a strong community. Although graphic design is a completely different field than the beauty industry, I still find so many similarities since, in both realms, I am working for myself, so I am able to transfer the skills I learned in each.

Which principles and values have you based your business upon and how do you hope to carry that through to your customers?

Beautycounter has been the perfect company for me to get involved with since they have such a strong mission of getting safer products out to people and educating them on the importance of knowing what is going onto theirs and their loved one's skin. Each day I’m able to reach out to a wider audience to share these values, and knowing I am confident in the product and mission makes it that much easier to accomplish. 

What do you love about having your own business and being your own boss? 

I love being able to know that the hours I am putting in are for myself and that I can see the results directly and know that it pays off.

What would you like to accomplish and where would you like to see yourself and your business in 5 years?

I would love to continue with what I am doing now but grow both my businesses. My main goal is to reach as many people as possible and get safer products into everyone’s home.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting their own business? 

I would definitely encourage it! I personally started out both as side jobs and would suggest going that route. Take the time to create a name for yourself and really establish relationships with potential clients. At one point you will see a shift and realize that you are getting more clients and work and that you can pursue that as a full-time career. It’s definitely time-consuming, there will be a lot of late nights, and you’ll hear “no” often, but in the end, you’ll be at a job that you really enjoy.

I am ...

not afraid to speak my mind.

I believe ...

in making time for friends and family.

I love …

Coffee - slightly addicted. :)

My greatest fear is …

taking on too much and burning out.

My greatest lesson in life so far is …

to create a balance between work life and personal life in order to achieve happiness and success.

I am proud of ...

anyone that pursues their dreams.

My greatest accomplishment is ...

taking the leap of establishing my own business.

A quote I live by is ...

“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone” - Neale Donald Walsch

My idea of a perfect day is ...

a relaxing day at the beach with friends.

My dream is ...

to be happy and not have any regrets.

I will ...

never stop challenging myself.

Amy serves as an inspiration to those of you who have a career, yet are feeling pulled toward stepping outside of that. Not only is it possible to pursue your dreams while managing a full-time job, it is oftentimes necessary until you have built something substantial enough to pull the weight that your full-time job only could. It can be overwhelming just thinking about how you could possibly build a business while juggling a full-time job, but if you have the drive and determination to do it, there's no limit to your potential.

No matter what obstacles you may face, including having to support yourself and your family while pursuing your dreams, small steps are bigger than no step at all. So, if you have a dream that you are wanting to pursue, take it from Amy to go out there and do it! It will be a challenge, but it will be so worth it.

To learn more about Beautycounter and how you, too, can get your hands on safer personal care products, or if you are interested in being a part of the company's mission, you can get in touch with Amy, and she will be happy to help. 

This month, Beautycounter launched their Holiday Gift Sets, and they are gorgeous! Just take a look down below for some snapshots of some of them. I'm all about companies that are a part of the clean beauty movement and who are holding themselves to a higher standard, so this is seriously stuff that I love to show my support for. I've also tried a few of their products from their skincare line, and I really enjoyed them.

To show my support for Amy - for a limited time (from now until November 19) - I will be hosting a Beautycounter social, which is basically just a fun way to shop together (virtually). Every purchase is an automatic entry into our giveaway, where you could win a Luminous Nudes Gift Set - valued at $75! How amazing is that - I'm so thankful that Amy is able to do this. There is also a 60-day money back guarantee on all orders. I hope you join me! You can shop directly at the button below. 

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I hope you enjoyed this post and gained inspiration from Amy's story. There will be more inspiring stories to come as I feature other women who are taking charge of their dreams and their future. Until then, have an amazing week and stay beautiful babes!

Are you an aspiring boss babe with big dreams? I'd love to know how I can help you get there. Let's chat in the comments below!

Wallpaper Wednesdays is now back in session, and this week we are getting inspired by one of the most genuinely sweetest people you'll have a chance to come across online - Mallory Overton of Castle Paper Co. I was instantly drawn to her work because her calligraphy style is so unique, and scrolling through her images immediately made me feel inspired and uplifted. 

Reading through her captions, you start to get a sense of her personality - she's authentic, down-to-earth, and the type that you'd want to be BFFs with! You can see it in her writing that she puts a ton of heart into her work and it is truly a reflection of who she is on the inside.

Taking a look through her work, she creates beautiful wedding stationery, place cards, invitations, and prints (to name a few) and they are all sophisticated with a touch of playful whimsy. I just love them ALL! Her work has been featured on Style Me Pretty, and rightfully so because she's got major skills.

If you ever find yourself in search for a calligrapher, Mallory's your girl. Head to her site and tell her what you need. Whether it be for a wedding, event, business, or even for your home - she can design something that you will be absolutely head over heals for. And since she's one of the most down-to-earth people you will ever meet, the process will be even that much more fun and stress-free, I'm sure. She also does copy editing. What can I say, the girl knows her stuff!

If you're the type that could stare at calligraphy for hours, do yourself a favor and follow Mallory on Instagram because she posts the prettiest photos of her life and work and makes everything look so completely effortless. I couldn't include all of her pretty calligraphy photos if I tried - so go ahead and see for yourself. 

Wrapping it up, I asked Mallory to answer a few questions for us - so enjoy - and at the end of the post download her free wallpapers that she totally made for all of you. 

Q & A | Mallory Overton - Castle Paper Co.

DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT?

I have always had a passion for beauty, and I’ve always had a strong sense for the way things look and feel + can observe that from an early age.  I do consider writing to be an artform, and I started pursuing that in high school.  I only started to pursue art as an endeavor about two years ago, so that piece is pretty new for me!  I like it, though.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

Outside.  I love gardens.  They bring out my inner eighty-year old.  I get a lot of thinking done as I walk around; I love walking through my neighborhood to start the day.  I’m also really inspired by museums + libraries, which feels a little cliche but it’s true.  Museums because they make me feel small but in a good way, and remind me of the human spirit + how great it is to be a member of a group of creatures that can’t help but to create.  Libraries for a similar reason, but with the added layer of story.  Books carry so much nostalgia for me, as I was a much better reader as a child.  I still love the idea of reading but find my attention so divided with things like, well, Instagram.   

WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE?

Paper :)  does that count?  I have always loved + collected paper.  I use a lot of markers, Tombows are my fave for brush markers, and Le Pen for felt-tip.  I also use watercolor and acrylic ink for calligraphy and for painting.  My new thing is to make tapestries out of linen that I can write on, so fabric is being added ot the list!

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART?

Okay, well whimsical would be one word.  And sophisticated (sometimes).  And then also intentional, because it’s both how I approach creating and how I try to use what I create.

DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

Yes, that or a podcast.  But usually music while I’m creating -- right now, I have Spotify’s 70s Smash Hits playlist on repeat.  But I mean, I also listen to Bieber.  I’m all over the place.  It has everything to do with my mood.

DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF.

A large-format piece hanging in my bathroom.  Usually the things I make I grow tired of from spending so much time with them, or I see the imperfections + that prevents me from enjoying the finished product for what it is.  But this piece that I love I wrote because the words moved me so much + I wasn’t worrying about how it looked, I was just writing it because I wanted to.  I often think that I’ll probably have it forever -- it’s a C.S. Lewis quote about God’s love for us, and I love to read it every day.   

NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE.

Oh, man.  Just one?!!  Well, I am really inspired by Ali Nelson, of Ali Makes Things.  The way she combines words + her story feels very close to my own heart!  I am always interested to see what she is putting out there.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

Don’t worry about what skills, tools, expertise, experience or vision you don’t have.  Use what you do have, right now.  If you are in this for the long term, you WILL have days where it feels like you’re going nowhere.  We all do, so try not to get discouraged.  Try instead to zoom out and ask yourself what you can do today that will bring you closer to your long-term goal--whether it’s based on a month, year, or lifetime of work.   

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

Honestly, as a creative I imagine myself to be capable of way more things that I probably am, but I could see myself getting back into flowers, and I often dream of having a co-working/event space where a couple of my friends and I could work and plan fun events together + use our space to give to people!  I have some dreams for it, but we’ll see what happens :)  

IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

The BEACH!

Thanks for stopping by! For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter by clicking the button below. Follow me, @hlovelyliving on Instagram, and search #cheekyliving to see when new designs are up. Tag me using your wallpapers so I can feature your photo!

Which designs and artists would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

Click Here to Stay Inspired + Get Free Wallpaper Updates

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free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XAugust 17, 2016

This week I'm featuring Seattle-based commercial artist, Ash Sta. Teresa whose patterns, illustrations. and color palettes will bring on the calm as soon as you set your eyes on them. 

She finds inspiration through her 3 kids and interestingly, it wasn't until she had her second child that she began to develop her skill. I love how children have a way of inspiring us to be the best versions of ourselves. You can see the love through her work and many of her illustrations have that child-like charm and innocence, like this illustration.

Her use of pastels and dreamy botanical illustrations are what first drew me to her art. Then, upon scrolling through her Instagram feed, I discovered a playful side that really stood out to me. It's been fun seeing what she comes up with in her 100 day project #dashofombre. 

One of my favorites is where she shows how ripping paper can looks so beautiful. She really inspired me to take time to do something art-related no matter how small it is and to think outside of the box like what she did above and below.

She has a lot going on and has a zillion patterns available for purchase on home decor, phone cases, and more.  If you want to check out all of her amazingness and get to know her more, you can also find her on Minted, Deny Designs, Casetify, and her Website, Dash And Ash. 

Her latest endeavor has her launching an organic children's clothing line, which she hand carves herself. I could definitely see my little one, Uriah rocking these. Give her a follow and help support "Made In The USA"!

Ash shares a bit more in my short Q & A, and before you click out, download the 4 free wallpaper designs she made at the end. Happy downloading!

Q & A

DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT?

I really never imagined doing anything else. I always loved creating and didn’t fully develop my skills until after having my 2nd child.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

http://www.denydesigns.com/collections/art-products/at-arrlo-the-buffalo and my kids. They actually tell me what to paint sometimes.

WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE?

Right now mostly watercolor and linocuts. I sometimes play around with acrylic and love drawing on my Wacom.

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART?

Pattern, Airy, Simple

DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

I used to love music and I just haven’t made time for it since kids. I feel like noises just come at me all day. I do a ton of thinking while painting and I enjoy the silence of all 3 kids in bed.

DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF.

I had a baby boy in February. I was in a horrible creative place during pregnancy and then suffered a postpartum hemorrhage afterwards, I actually thought I died on the bathroom floor. I was really lucky to be at a great hospital that acted fast. Recovering was a long time spent in bed, I would draw between feeding the baby and sleeping. I decided then to just spend time on art that only I would be proud of. You can see the piece here: Arrlo the Buffalo

NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE.

I have to name Four: Ashley Goldberg, Frida, Georgia O'Keeffe, Lisa Congdon

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

Just start and create art everyday, even if it’s for 5 minutes.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

I’m in a transition to get more of my art on clothes. I hope that I will have a successful baby clothing line.

IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

New York.

Thanks for stopping by! For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving to see when new designs are up and tag me with which wallpapers you picked so I can feature your photo!

What types of designs and artist features would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

Stay Inspired + Get Free Wallpaper Updates

Receive my latest content straight to your inbox + free wallpaper updates!

free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XJune 8, 2016

Wallpaper Wednesdays had a short hiatus, but have no fear - it's back! This week, I'm featuring Laura Fedorowicz, a Canadian artist that I came across on Instagram. She makes the most vibrant pieces of art that have a soft and feminine feel while also giving off energy and movement.

Laura's strong use of contrasting colors in vibrant and pastel hues make her art feel very bold, yet soft. Her artwork is perfect for anyone who wants to incorporate color into their home without having to paint the walls. As you can see in the photo above, it accomplishes just that. Her pieces add that perfect modern touch and are filled with abstract patterns, which I can see make any space a happier place because of them.

I really love Laura's use of color and the color palettes that result from her work. Sometimes it can be intimidating to use so many colors, but she uses them so perfectly well that everything comes together without looking overpowering. The patterns she comes up with - well, I can stare at them all day. And her paint swatches look just as beautiful as her finished pieces. 

You can catch Laura running her Etsy shop, Elle and Kay Collection where she sells a wide variety of original modern prints. She also posts regularly on Instagram. Just scrolling through her feed will make you have heart eyes; You'll find beautifully composed pictures of her art and behind the scenes beautiful messes (like above). Isn't it just pretty! She also shares candid moments as an artist and mom of a toddler who knows how to color coordinate with her artwork. Her pup is cute too and can be seen living the good life taking a nap with her art adorned pillow and throw blanket.

But that's just the beginning for Laura, who is quite the busy-bee. I was really excited to find out that her designs can be found on so many products from gift wrapping paper to home decor. I just about wanted everything I saw! Her recent collaboration with Hedoe Paper (above) will make it hard for anyone to want to rip their packages open. I know I just couldn't see myself destroying such beautiful wrapping paper. 

Laura is also active on Deny Designs, where her art has been placed on home decor, cellphone cases, makeup bags, and more. There's literally pages and pages of amazingness happening with her art. I hope you stop by and check her out and give her a follow, but before you do, below is a short Q & A to get to know her a bit more! She also created four amazing free wallpaper designs for your computer and phone toward the end. Happy downloading!

Q & A

DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT? 

I have always been passionate about art and design. I can remember re-doing my room at about 10 and going to the paint store, and being so specific about how the room would and should look. The salesperson looked at my mom and said, “She’s going to be an artist”. I spent free time at home painting, and spare periods in high school in the art room creating. After attending OCAD University for Environmental Design, I took a break from creating. I started back up while on maternity leave with my first child and haven’t stopped since. 

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? 

I find my inspiration all over the place. In everyday life, from fashion trends, floral arrangements, pretty skies. I find since I have started creating again, everywhere I look there is inspiration. (and it is a lovely feeling!) 

WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE? 

I stick to acrylics currently, adding detail in ink when needed. When I first started creating again I used water colors, and I am so itching to play with oil paint. I think my abstracts would be so delicious in the texture that oils bring! 

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? 

Enthusiastic, Bright, Feminine 

DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

Yes, always. A wide mix, Justin Bieber, Beyonce, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, Drake, and then on the opposite side….I’m a country girl too, Maren Morris, Clare Dunn, Miranda Lambert and obsessing over Thomas Rhett’s “Tangled Up” currently! Just depends on my mood.

DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF. 

My Wild and Free Canvas represents a big breakthrough for me. I realized in that painting - that my very own style and developing voice was one to be proud of. Sharing your art with the world in the beginning is a scary thing - this represents moving on from the fear and stepping out - proudly. I have since turned that canvas into a set of art prints, so others can have Wild and Free in their home.

NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE. 

Britt Bass - Her color and the feeling in her abstracts are so stunning. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

Just Create. Focus on your creative drive, your need to create, and just keep moving. You will get distracted, you will sometimes feel defeated or stuck. But just keep going. Usually after those down periods, something wonderful comes. You were meant to create exactly what it is you are creating, and no one else can do it how you do. 

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

I want to be running a successful online boutique where I can sell not only my own art, but the art and accessories of other artists. I want to curate a shop full of beauty! 

IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

Hawaii. My husband and I went to Hawaii for our honeymoon, and we secretly dream of moving our family there and living a simpler life. 

Thanks for stopping by! For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving and @cheekybillo on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving to see when new designs are up and tag us with which wallpapers you picked so we can feature your photo!

My Wallpaper Wednesday partner in crime - the lovely, Ena Chahal - can be stalked over here: Instagram | Blog | Casetify | Society 6 

What designs and artist features would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, profiles, inspirationStina XMay 10, 2016modern

This week, I'm excited to share with you a new artist feature! I found Rachel on Instagram, my go-to place for seeking out other creatives. If you visit her Instagram feed, you'll quickly see why her work stood out to me. Through her work, she shares inspiring and motivating messages and scripture for women. I ended up with a permanent smile on my face after reading them. 

Rachel is part of the growing movement of women who are creating the life and career they want by pursuing what they love and what sets their heart on fire. She discovered calligraphy and fell in love with it so much that she decided to take a leap of faith and start her own business. Now, she creates calligraphy and hand-lettered print products that allows her to spread her message while living out her dreams.

Many of her prints share encouraging scriptures that I absolutely love. She also appeals to the mug-loving-types, which is basically every woman known to man. See the rest of her lovely products in her Etsy shop.

She's also a photographer, which explains why her photos are so beautifully styled and photographed. But the cake-topper is her brush-lettering and calligraphy. Looking at this beautiful form of art is therapeutic in itself. Throw in some light-hearted sayings and you have the perfect framed addition to add to your home. If you're loving her work so far, I'm sure Rachel would love for you to visit her (tell her I sent you). She can be found over on her website, Instagram, and Facebook. Get to know her a bit more below, and then download all of the free wallpapers she created for you at the end. 

Q & A

DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT?

Yes, I have always loved art and have found great peace and comfort when creating things! I always loved studying art in high school and college. I considered double-majoring so I could get an Art degree, but I didn’t think I was skilled enough. Back then, I felt as if I never found a craft that I felt I could excel in or do for a living. Enter Calligraphy! Once I learned calligraphy and hand-lettering, I was hooked and knew that it was something that would be a part of my life for a very long time. Fast-forward to today and now I am a business owner selling my handmade goods and hand-lettered products. Life is a crazy ride!

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

I find a lot of inspiration through my fellow creatives on social media, but I also find inspiration when I am outdoors. I spend a lot of time outside, and most of my good ideas are a result of a good run, walk, or hike. My faith inspires and influences the majority of my work as well.     

WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE?

I use watercolor for most of my brush lettering products, but I also digitize my work. As a result, I sell mugs, note cards, and lots of custom digital projects (like wedding invitations). A lot of times, the work I will eventually digitize starts with a sharpie and scrap piece of paper!

IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART?

Empowering, feminine, inspirational.

DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

Yes! I also listen to a lot of podcasts. My music playlists change a lot, but right now my favorite playlist includes Selena Gomez, Blake Shelton, Jason Derulo, Justin Bieber, Adele, Hunter Hayes, and Beyonce. My favorite podcasts are Radiolab, Serial, Reply All, and Mystery Show, if you were wondering :)

DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF.

This is a tough question! I recently created a 2016 Calendar and each month has a  verse written out in calligraphy with a watercolor graphic. I love it so much! It was a lot of work, but I am really happy with how it turned out.

NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE.

Jackson Pollock

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

Don’t give up! Don’t compare yourself! Be unique! And remember to hold yourself to standard of grace, not perfection.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

I hope to have some babies running around the office with me and a team of people working together to empower, encourage and inspire women through my art.

IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

In Italy with my husband, drinking a glass of red wine, and looking out onto a body of water.

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For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving and @cheekybillo on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving where Ena and I will be posting when new designs are up and tag us with which wallpapers you picked so we can feature your photo!

My Wallpaper Wednesday partner in crime - the lovely, Ena Chahal - can be stalked over here: Instagram | Blog | Casetify | Society 6 

What designs and artist features would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XFebruary 18, 2016

Meet Sam Eldridge, a talented artist based out of Vancouver, BC. If it weren't for Instagram, I wouldn't have discovered this gem. She just recently (within the past 2 years) started seriously pursuing her art, so Ena and I are so thrilled to have come across her. Her work is complex and filled with dimension and texture that is just too hard not to keep glancing back at over and over again. 

Her pieces are vibrant and exciting and are pulsing with liveliness and energy. In addition to her abstract art, you can see that she is talented in other areas as well. She picked up stitching not too long ago, and in that time, has developed an intricacy to her patterns that make them miniature works of art themselves. One of her recent pieces, which took 30+ hours *gasp* of stitching, was featured at a miniature art show at the Ghost Gallery in Seattle. You gotta see it here! 

What do you think of her work so far? Could you see one of her pieces hanging on your walls? Share with us in the comments!  

We asked Sam to create wallpaper designs for us and what she created is beyond words. Her Q & A was so interesting to read, too; I get a sense of her personality, and I'm loving her even more! She has an inspiring story to share, so enjoy the read and enjoy your free downloads at the end. 

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Q & A

1. DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT? 

My passion for art started when I was just over two years old. I had (my first) hip surgery and afterwards I was stuck in a big, awkward cast that held my legs open in a froggy position. My dad built me a special little table with a hole in the middle to accommodate my cast, gave me some art supplies, and the love affair began! Because of my two surgeries and my other physical impairments, I’ve never really felt in control of my body (although I can definitely walk and somewhat successfully run, so I have it pretty darn good!). Using my hands to make art makes me feel so much more competent and powerful in my body. I started seriously making art about two years ago, and I opened my Etsy to tentatively start selling things in October of this year. I’m excited for whatever comes next :)

2. WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? 

I find my inspiration from other artists (I spend a whole lot of time poking around on Instagram and getting excited by all the beautiful work). I like looking at people who use really bold brush strokes and pile on the colour to get me thinking about my next painting. I’m also really inspired by thinking about and playing with colour combinations in my mind -- I had a long mustard yellow and teal phase recently, and right now I’m especially stoked on bright orange and lavender. If I’m looking to do an embroidery or a more realistic painting, I draw inspiration from leaves, plants, flowers, and natural shapes (like waves and crystal clusters). Sometimes it feels like just the act of NOT painting for a few days is inspiring itself, since my desire to create builds up until I just can’t resist reaching for my paintbrush.

3. WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE? 

I use watercolour, ink, acrylic, oil pastels, wool, and thread. I want to use every medium! All at once! The more mediums the merrier!

4. IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? 

“Experiment with Everything”

5.  DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

I actually don’t listen to music on my own (I know...it’s terrible! I don’t even own a pair of headphones! I don’t have a favorite band!) so I usually hum along with whatever my partner puts on (hip hop, jazz, and blues, with a dash of Leonard Cohen). I tend to tune out whatever is happening around me if I’m really focused on a piece, a trait I inherited from my father -  a man who will build furniture in the basement for ten hours straight without noticing the CD ended after the first hour.

Read the rest of the Q & A HERE. 

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I hope you snag all of Sam's beautiful wallpapers that she created just for Wallpaper Wednesdays! Sam can be found on Instagram and Etsy, so follow her for more and tell her we sent you. Happy downloading!

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For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving and @cheekybillo on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving where we will be posting when new designs are up and show us which wallpapers you picked.

My Wallpaper Wednesday partner in crime - the lovely, Ena Chahal - can be stalked over here:  Blog | Etsy | Society 6 

A heartfelt thank you to Sam for collaborating with us!

What designs would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XDecember 16, 2015

We're featuring another artist this week - this time from Ontario, Canada! Holly's work is pulsing with energy and is very unique. The colors she uses are very vibrant and alive, but with a lot of pastel hues. I really enjoy how her brushstrokes contain different shapes and patterns that are really intriguing to look at. Each piece is so unique from the next, which makes me look forward to seeing what she comes up with next. Her work is far from predictable!

Ena really knows how to spot talent, and I am so glad that she introduced me to Holly's work. Every artist that I meet really inspires me to pick up my paint brush and experiment. Holly has dedicated herself to her passion after a career in interior decorating, and will soon have her works available for purchase on Burrow Home. I hope you get to check out her many other beautiful works. A few of her pieces are available at the end of this post as free wallpapers. We will also have a giveaway with Holly on Instagram in a few weeks. Holly will be giving away some hand painted ornaments, so make sure to follow us so you don't miss out on that. Now, let's get to know Holly!

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Q & A 

1. DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT? 

I loved drawing as a child & excelled in art classes throughout high school. At University I experimented in my art classes & discovered an interest in watercolour. My work was abstract & full of colour. After graduating with my BFA I attended college where I studied Interior Design. I have always loved interior spaces & thrifting vintage items. I have painted as a hobby for years, doing commissions for friends & family. It wasn’t until a few months ago that I decided I needed to make my passion my career, & just go for it.

2. WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? 

The combination of colour, texture, & pattern. My lines & brushstrokes are a dynamic expression of my daily life. Graffiti, interiors, & architectural elements are images I look at when seeking inspiration. 

3. WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE? 

Primarily acrylic, I will often add in latex or spray paint to layer my paintings & create texture. I am planning on a new series this year, that is photo based with epoxy resin. I’m excited to branch out into a new direction & see what it leads to. 

4. IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? 

Colourful, Abstract, Spontaneous

5.  DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

I always have music on, & I definitely have a playlist that gets me moving consisting of Florence & The Machine, Awolnation, & Cold War Kids. If I’m in a mellow mood you’ll probably hear Neil Young, Dawes, The Shins or Temper Trap. The titles of my works are often lyrics, or songs themselves that were playing in the background while I was creating.   

To be continued...

Read the rest of the Q & A HERE. 

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I hope you snagged all of Holly's beautiful wallpapers! Holly can be found over here: Website | Instagram

For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving and @cheekybillo on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving where we will be posting when new designs are up and show us which wallpapers you picked.

My Wallpaper Wednesday partner in crime - the lovely, Ena Chahal - can be stalked over here:  Blog | Etsy | Society 6 

A heartfelt thank you to Holly for collaborating with us!

What designs would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XNovember 11, 2015

This week, Ena and I are featuring London based artist, Harriet Hoult! Harriet reached out to me - and I'm so glad she did - because I needed her artwork in my life. What I love about her art is that it has so much depth to it. I could literally stare at her pieces for days and would appreciate her work and never get tired of it if it were displayed in my home. Her work is so colorful as well and contains so many textures, patterns, and details yet to be discovered.

In Harriet's About section on her website, she says,

"I tend not to plan. I have an image in my head as a starting point and I make some makes in the direction of that original idea. Then I feel my way to what the next set of marks will be. It's a moment-by-moment evolving process."

To me, that is so inspiring and it is a common thread that many artists share. I find that intriguing and inspiring. To create something so beautiful from a space of letting go is really amazing, and that's why I admire her work so much. 

Her work also has so much emotion and energy pulsing through it, while others are very soft and calming. I also love how every piece she has evokes a different feeling. 

Explore her work - you'll be so glad you did! She is sharing three beautiful wallpapers at the end of this post, so make sure you grab them, but first, let's get to know her a bit more. 

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Q & A 

1. DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT? 

I always loved Art at school and I used to get very excited about the Art class each week.  Then I would spend the whole time from the point of the class ending looking forward to the next one.  It was the only time of the week when I felt truly alive and sort of purposeful.  Then at 16 I gave up it completely - I was advised by my teachers that Art was not an academic subject and that it would be sensible career wise to take a more robust subject like History or Politics.  From that point on, I didn't pick up a pencil or paintbrush for many years - until I signed up for an art workshop in Scotland about 7 years ago, and that was probably the beginning of this particular phase and the seed of the work I am now doing. 

2. WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? 

My inspiration comes from many places. I am and always have been very driven by aesthetic's  - the things I perceive to be visually beautiful. So really, it is anything that I see that touches that 'beauty spot' within me - whether that's the way two colours interact on a street sign, an old tree stump in the park or a page in a magazine. I also love graphic design and I get very excited when I see what I consider to be a great design piece.  The other thing I am very inspired by is people's stories - I often listen to podcasts like Radio 4's Desert Island Discs as I love hearing successful people talking about themselves, their motivations,  and their lives. 

3. WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE? 

I work mainly with acrylic (both tube and spray paint) and mixed media on paper. I love working on paper because to me it feels really sort of raw and real - I only use very thick textured archival paper.  The mixed media could be anything from oil pastel to string or sand. 

4. IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? 

Abstract, colourful, expressive

5.  DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

I sometimes listen to music but recently I've been listening more to podcasts - as I mentioned earlier Desert Island Discs on Radio 4 is one of my favourites, also Raise Your Hand And Say Yes by Tiffany Han is another one I've tuned into a lot in the last few weeks.   

To be continued...

To see the rest of the Q & A, click HERE. 

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I hope you snagged one - if not all - of Harriet's beautiful wallpapers! Harriet can be found over at her Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Flickr.

For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving and @cheekybillo on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving where we will be posting when new designs are up and tag your wallpapers in use to be featured.

My Wallpaper Wednesday partner in crime - the lovely, Ena Chahal - can be stalked over here:  Blog | Etsy | Society 6 

A heartfelt thank you to Harriet for collaborating with us!

What designs would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments below! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XOctober 28, 2015

Today, Ena and I are featuring Jocelyn Edin from Michigan - a brilliant watercolor artist, print and web designer, and one who dabbles in a multitude of other creative pursuits such as painting, drawing, lettering, letterpress, sculpture, and photography. I've noticed an interesting common thread among artists that we've featured so far. Like Sophia - Mini Grandi Artist, and I, Jocelyn is a designer, and has also decided to pursue an independent career for herself. It's encouraging to see that other creatives are taking the big leap to pursue their passion. The amazing thing is that it doesn't look like they just merely entered the scene, rather they are seasoned pros, with talent beyond their years. 

The thing I really appreciate about Jocelyn's work is that it is very spontaneous and organic. I love when I look at a piece of art and see the emotion in it. I really feel that the best art is created from just being in the moment and letting loose. Too much control will actually work against art than for it, but I do believe that you do need a certain amount of restraint too, so I guess that's a form of control. Either way, Jocelyn really achieves it all in her work and it is very easy to gaze in awe and get lost in the details of her watercolors.

I really look forward to seeing more of Jocelyn's work because I really admire her style and use of colors. If you're loving her work so far, stay around until the end of the post to see the beautiful wallpaper designs that she created for you guys for free download. They are absolutely lovely. Now let's get to know her a bit more with our Q&A!

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1. DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT? 

I have always loved making things. I was so lucky to come from a family of artists, including my dad who was my high school art teacher. I studied graphic design in college and spent the last 15 years in the agency world as an art director for a small studio in southeast Michigan. This past summer I decided to follow my own path and focus on making art full-time.

2. WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? 

I find beauty in the everyday, in the simple things. I love the outdoors, sunshine, Mother Nature. I’m also inspired by color itself, shapes, compositions, textures, the spontaneity of paint on paper.

3. WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE? 

Mainly watercolor, and of course my digital tools.

4. IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? 

Graphic, Organic, Optimistic

5.  DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

I’m always listening to music! I love live music and am on the board at The Ark, a music venue in downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan. My tastes are eclectic and cover a huge range. I love music that makes me want to dance but I also love beautiful songwriting and authentic delivery. Some of my favorites are Patty Griffin, Vienna Teng, Johnnyswim, JT, MJ, Pharrell.

6. DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF. 

One of my favorite pieces from the last year was an illustrated poster for a Jeff Daniels show at The Ark. I have a signed copy framed in my home. It was a piece that pushed me in exciting ways.

7. NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE. 

I immediately think of the artists in my family, my dad, my brother, my aunt, my great grandmother, all so inspirational in their own way. But if I had to pick a current artist crush, it would be Helen Dealtry. The aesthetic of her watercolor work and textile design is so yummy!

8.  WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

I love this video with Ira Glass talking about The Gap. Exactly. Do a lot of work. And make yourself uncomfortable. That’s when you’ll grow.

9.  WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

Creating larger series of work. Showing in galleries. Collaborating with creative friends around the world. Dedicating time towards a cause.

10. IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

At a plein air watercolor workshop in Scotland.

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I hope you snagged one - if not all - of Jocelyn's beautiful wallpapers! Jocelyn can be found over at her Website, Society6, Minted, Etsy, and Instagram. 

For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving and @cheekybillo on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving where we will be posting when new designs are up and tag your wallpapers in use to be featured.

My Wallpaper Wednesday partner in crime - the lovely, Ena Chahal - can be stalked over here:  Blog | Etsy | Society 6 

A heartfelt thank you to Jocelyn for collaborating with us!

What designs would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XOctober 7, 2015jocelyn edin

This week's featured artist is Katelyn Morse from Nova Scotia, Canada. Her pieces struck a chord with me, so I invited her to be featured this week. Her work is so ethereal and calming to look at, and I just adore her feather illustrations and mountain landscapes. I can only imagine how stunning it would be to view sites that majestic in person one day. 

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Nature is so inspiring and, I feel, can bring out the best in us an an authenticity that nothing else could. Getting one-on-one with nature and being observant to it brings a peace that can't be described. 

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I love how Katelyn created these minimalist paintings with wood. If you're loving her work so far, she's created four beautiful wallpapers for you guys to enjoy towards the end of this post. First, let's see what she had to say for our Q&A. 

1. DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT? 

I have always loved to draw since I was very young - almost every day I would draw animals, people, flowers etc. It was not until one year ago that I started pursuing it as a career option. So happy I did!

2. WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? 

I find inspiration in nature. The prettiest foliage and the intricate flowers always catch my eye. Animals as well! 

3. WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE? 

I use mostly acrylic paint, and watercolor paint. Looking into trying out oil! 

4. IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? 

Boho, Earthy, and Girly.

5.  DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

If I'm listening to music it's either Jack Johnson or a playlist of forest sounds! 

6. DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF. 

I painted a large circular piece of wood and filled it with evergreen trees and a body of water with the trees reflection in it, with a little fawn hiding in the trees. I absolutely love that piece and it will hang in my living room for years to come!

7. NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE. 

Emily Jeffords. I feel a sense of calmness and peace when I look at her paintings.

8.  WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

Don't stop creating. Do do do. Don't give up, be kind to all and love the process. Find what you're good at and hone it - get your art out there in as many places that you can and be bold!

9.  WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

In 5 years I hope to have my own studio and be shipping my paintings all over the world! I will be 29 in 5 years - so I also hope that my husband and I will own our house by the lake and start raising a fam. 

10. IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

Banff. I'll be there in a week. I just want to be there right now! On top of a mountain looking down at the amazing world at which we live in!

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I hope you snagged one - if not all - of her beautiful wallpapers! Katelyn can be found over at her Etsy shop and Instagram. You'll want to check out her other amazing work, for sure.

For wallpaper updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @hlovelyliving and @cheekybillo on Instagram. Search #cheekyliving where we will be posting when new designs are up and tag your wallpapers in use to be featured.

My Wallpaper Wednesday partner in crime - the lovely, Ena Chahal - can be stalked over here:  Blog | Etsy | Society 6

What designs would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XSeptember 23, 2015

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Photo credit: Pip Leigh Photography

This week, we're excited to feature a new artist from the beautiful Wanaka, New Zealand! Sophie has a very inspiring story - one that I connect with in my personal journey. A graphic artist by trade for 12 years, Sophie decided that it was time to return to her first love - painting and become a full time artist after being inspired by her surrounding Wanaka. 

As you may imagine, her artwork is also inspired by the surrounding mountains, forests, lakes, and beaches of Wanaka. Perhaps one of the interesting things to me about Sophie is the inspiration behind her name - Mini Grandi Artist, which means little grown up artist.

Picasso said ‘Every child is an artist, the problem is how to remain one when we grow up.’ Co-incidentally this was on the back on my graphic design business card for years and when I clicked that my name had always been with me, it was like the whole world got a little bit brighter.' - Sophie

You can read more in her Lookbook, where she shares about her journey toward becoming wholly creative again and how slow living has been her pathway to becoming truly inspired, living in the moment, and feeling complete.

Ena and I really connected with her story, but even more, her artwork! I love the simplicity, yet complexity of her work and how each piece conveys a landscape in itself. It's interesting how her art career is just starting to unfold, yet there is so much depth in her work. It just goes to show: once an artist, always an artist. No matter what path we take in life, we will always be led back to our "first love" - our passion and what sets us free inside. 

We asked Sophie to answer a few questions for us - take a read and be inspired! Stay around 'til the end to download her beautiful wallpapers.

1. DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A PASSION FOR ART AND WHEN DID YOU START PURSUING IT? 

Oh most definitely, I lived in the art room at school then went onto study a degree in Fine Arts specialising in Painting from Elam School of Fine Arts in Auckland, New Zealand but after years of travelling and chasing snow, meeting my husband and then finally settling in Wanaka I became a graphic designer instead of returning to art. But last year I found a totally new lifestyle and embarked on a new pathway after endless winter sickness, being riddled with self doubt and just being miserable. Now I'm the happiest, calmest and most creative I have ever been thanks to being introduced to meditation and finding balance in my life through the mind/body connection, yoga and whole foods. I feel that the art I create now is an extension of the freedom I have found in letting go of my life to gain control over it. My secret to my return to creativity lies with meditation and it's ability to ground me and it's only me that can do that.  The power you have inside from the stillness within fascinates me. 

It has been one of my consistently renewed goals for years to become a full time artist once both my children were at school but I'd never put any steps in place to achieve it as self doubt stopped me from ever committing to painting again. I’ve met that goal 2 years ahead of schedule and am so grateful that my lifestyle changed in order to let me become an artist. Everything happens for a reason I believe and I obviously wasn't meant to make the art I do today until now.

2. WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? 

My artwork and textures are inspired by the mountains, forests, lakes and beaches surrounding Wanaka. I often find my best works are creations of impulse and experimenting in my studio. I try to see the beauty in everything and seek to interpret this with creating landscapes of tranquility, familiarity and simplicity.

3. WHAT MEDIUMS DO YOU USE? 

I am currently working with black watercolour on paper but am planning some large scale works on canvas for a solo show early next year. I am somewhat an unconventional watercolorist - I often drench my paper in water leaving it in pools and swirls of colour to absorb and dry. I also like to use a mixture of brushes, not necessarily watercolour brushes - just whatever I have and sometimes my best brush is my old shedding pastry brush that obviously was no good for pastry but works great as my clean water brush for the initial paper soak.  My favourite brush is a long piece of dried grass collected from the fields close to my home and where I go running with my dog most mornings. The other favourite is a dried wildflower weed that grows abundantly in the same fields. I love the varied appearance these tools give and that I have very limited control over the end result - this excites me like nothing else!  I also love to not look at the paper when creating abstract loose shapes, if I look while I have a brush in hand I ruin it! 

4. IN THREE WORDS, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART? 

Abstract.  Still.  Linear.

5.  DO YOU LISTEN TO MUSIC WHILE CREATING ART? IF SO, WHAT’S ON YOUR PLAYLIST?

As much as I love quiet and the stillness within I need loud music to create and absorb myself in my work - Broods and the XX never fail to disappoint. In contrast to this I always meditate before starting painting!

6. DESCRIBE YOUR MOST TREASURED ART PIECE TO DATE - ONE THAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF. 

Um, I just sold it last week! Gasp! It is called 'Another Storm at the Beach' - an original watercolour work on paper. (it is also my most popular selling print on my website). I initially didn't want to sell it but it was to a friend returning to Germany and I could tell he just loved it. I felt if he loved it as much as I did that it would be best in his home, I could always have other favourites.

7. NAME ONE ARTIST YOU ADMIRE. 

This year I discovered the beautiful work of Agneta Ekholm a Finish artist living in Melbourne http://www.agnetaekholm.com  She creates ethereal abstract flowing works with multiple layers of apparent simplicity but really the technique she uses is anything but. I recently connected with her to tell her I had been in to admire her works several times at a local Wanaka gallery - Gallery33 and she encouraged me to keep producing art that was just mine and to develop my craft by simply working away at it.

8.  WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO EMERGING ARTISTS?

It seems odd to be giving advice so early into my career but I guess the biggest fundamental thing I have learnt this year is to produce work that is uniquely me. I feel like I discovered my current style by chance and can only hope my transition to my next style comes to me when I least expect it too.  Figuring out what works for your style takes time but the only way you can find it is by continuing to keep challenging and pushing your art.  Oh and don't spend too much time on social media!  I feel like I should have a degree in Instagram I've spent so much time on there!

9.  WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?

In the middle of completing a Masters in Fine Art and maybe with a third child in tow……., hah!

10. IF YOU COULD BE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE?

I am so incredibly happy in my home with my little family and husband right now, I love living in Wanaka and am grateful everyday to be able to live here.  I am such a home body but while I do still have aspirations for travel, I think realistically that will happen once my children are grown up. (They're 5 and 3.5).  My husband also travels overseas a lot for work so he loves nothing more than to come home and while I used to be, 'right, lets go away!' I have come to realise home is best for him AND me right now……

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I hope you snagged one - if not all - of her beautiful wallpapers! We would love you forever if you could stop by and show some love over at Sophie's shop, blog, or Instagram for us.

For updates, sign up for my newsletter in my sidebar or simply follow @cheekybillo and @hellolovelyliving on Instagram and search #cheekyliving where we will be posting when new designs are up. 

The lovely, Ena Chahal can be stalked ; ) over here:  Blog | Etsy | Society 6

What designs would you like to see next? Share with me in the comments! 

Disclosure: All designs are original and for personal use. Artists retain rights to all designs and they may not be copied or reproduced in any form or likeness. We love when you share, but please link back to the original post. Enjoy!

free resources, inspiration, profilesStina XSeptember 9, 2015