Etsy Feature: {Kelly Stahley Art and Design}

I would like to introduce everyone to a wonderful Graphic Designer/Blogger/Etsy Shop Owner: Kelly Stahley. Today's feature is about her and her creative process, don't forget to visit her Blog and wonderful Etsy Store to find out more!

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and what you make/sell in your shop?

My name is Kelly, I'm 22 years old and graduated from art school about a year ago. My Etsy shop started out as my place to sell my jewelry designs, but recently I've incorporated my graphic design services as well. I love the jewelry designs I currently have but I'm definitely more passionate about art and design work, so I'm trying to promote my graphic design through my Etsy.

2. What inspired you to start Kelly Stahley Art and Design?

I majored in Fine Art in college. Once I graduated, I quickly realized there aren't many people who are going to hire a painter. To be honest, I totally freaked out, not knowing what I was going to do with my life. I love all aspects of art and knew I needed to do something artistic, but I wasn't going to be making a living off painting alone. That's when I became interested in jewelry design. I'd buy tons and tons of supplies and make all different types of pieces. I always knew about Etsy but I never thought anyone would actually buy anything from me. One night I listed one feather ring I created, and by the time I woke up in the morning I was thrilled to see someone actually bought it! I then got very serious about Etsy and wanted to include all of the services I can offer. So currently I have about half the shop filled with jewelry and the other half with design work.

  

3. Do you have a blog? Do you sell/showcase your work anywhere else?




I do have a blog. You can see it atwww.kellystahley.com/blog.html I regularly feature great Etsy Artists and other artists as well. Right now I have two free giveaways going on! The first is for two rings in my shop. www.kellystahley.com/2/post/2012/11/first-ever-blog-giveaway.html                                                

And the second is sponsored by a woman on Etsy who sells gorgeous Vintage Art Prints www.kellystahley.com/2/post/2012/11/vintage-art-print-giveaway.html 

For my senior thesis in college I showcased 5 of my paintings, but aside from that I really haven't sold anywhere else. 

4. Can you describe your creative process.

My creative process is pretty much all over the place! It really depends on the medium I'm working in. If I'm creating jewelry I'll go to the store and buy a bunch of elements that inspire me, I'll lay everything out on my desk and play around with different combinations until I find something I like. With my graphic design I'll usually sit down at my computer and try out a ton of different ideas and see which looks right to me. And with my fine art I'll put on some music and get lost in my artwork. I am definitely most passionate about my fine art, especially figure drawing/painting.

 

5. What do you do in your free time?

I've been trying to get to the gym a lot. I want to get myself to go at least a few times a week. I also spend a lot of time researching design and business tips. I'm determined to run my own business successfully and not have to work for anyone but myself.

6. Anything else you'd like to share with the readers?

I'd love it if you'd check out my blog! I have a lot of creative articles and run a bunch of giveaways (free entry!!) And if anyone needs any graphic design or web design services, let me know! I love doing custom work for people. My portfolio can be seen atwww.kellystahley.com/graphicweb-design.html

Also, if you have a facebook/twitter etc. Send me the links and I'll post them at the bottom of your feature.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Kelly-Stahley-Art-and-Design/303214829730627

Twitter: twitter.com/KellyArtDesign

Website: www.kellystahley.com/

Blog: www.kellystahley.com/blog.html