What do you make?
I make folded fabric flower accessories called Kanzashi. Kanzashi is a traditional Japanese art similar to origami used to make the flower headdresses of the geishas. I have developed my own technique inspired by the tradition, modern fashion, and vintage color palettes. They are 75% upcycled fabrics and finished with vintage buttons.
This is my full time job. I sell on Etsy and attend every show I can. I did 31 craft shows last year. I am a work at home mom, so I'm working on my flowers every chance I get.
Why I do it is hard to explain. It's almost a compulsive need to create. I get very depressed working for someone else when it leaves me too worn out to create my art. It may even be considered an addiction since my work desk is the only place I ever want to be.
Also, it gives me an outlet for my button hoarding =) My true preferred method of expression is the performance art of the runway show. I hope that selling accessories will be a stepping stone towards putting on more shows like the two I put on for RAW: natural born artists. I also have my eye on creating more fine art (ie creating canvases that incorporate my flowers).
Contact information: Eleanor Kurtz, missekurtz@gmail.com, http://www.scarlettandmaria.com, http://www.etsy.com/shop/scarlettandmaria, http://www.facebook.com/scarlettandmaria
