We are so excited to have a guest feature this week on the blog! We chatted with April Atchley. April is an artist and we are so excited to feature her textiles and pillows in our new arrivals this week!!  If you follow her, you know she is a very talented artist! We love her work! (Go check out her Instagram!) 

 How and when did you get started painting?

I’ve had a creative bent for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until reaching college that my passion for art was really sparked. Up until college, art had always been a hobby I enjoyed doing here and there. As I took more and more fine art classes in college, I began to see my passion for painting and understand how art could become a career that I love. 

What are some projects you’re currently working on?

I am currently working on an abstract collection that will be offered as framed pieces. Along with that, I’m working on a collection of floral arrangements, just in time for spring! 

How do you gain/gather inspiration? What do you do to get recharged? 

I find it’s the simple things that can be the most inspiring- the shapes, colors, and objects that we experience all around us every day. Sometime’s it’s taking the time to stop and notice these simple things that recharge my creative spirit. Taking a break and spending time with my husband and daughter, baking, traveling, or gardening are also things that recharge me and send me skipping back to the easel. 

What’s your favorite thing about creating?

There are no right or wrong ways when it comes to creating. It's a beautiful journey that sometimes leads to a masterpiece and sometimes leads to the trash can. But there is always something gleaned along the way. I’ve found that creating isn’t a dead-end path, but has led me to hopes, dreams, and goals that I am incredibly thankful for.

What advice would you give your younger creative self?

Paint, paint, paint! Don’t worry about the outcome, but paint for the process and sake of learning as you go. Try new things and don’t be discouraged if you aren’t pleased with the end result. Just keep painting and you will find your groove!

Thanks for reading, we are so excited you are here! Stay tuned for more blog posts, inspiration, and guest appearances! If you have any topics or people you'd like to see featured on the blog, let us know!