Today's featured artist is Tiara from Eastern Trend Collective. She creates and sells fine art and handmade accessories all created along the East Coast of the United States. Eastern Trend Collective is also sponsoring a giveaway! Be sure to scroll down to enter to win a Mustard Crochet Coffee Cozy!
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Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what you sell at Eastern Trend Collective?
Sure! I'm Tiara Lovelace, owner and creator. I was a studio art major, and I love designing and creating. Right now, I offer jewelry, crochet and knitted gifts and fine art prints. And I'm currently brainstorming for new products to make and offer.
Were you always interested in art and crafting?
Out of my family, I've been the crafty one. As long as I can remember, I've made and created gifts for others. I studied Studio Art, Art History and Social Sciences in college. I have a passion for making
and creating, whether it is a scarf or a cupcake, I put my create self into whatever I make.
What is your favorite thing to create?
Oh geez, the dreaded question. I have a hard time answering considering I like so many different art mediums. Ok, here it is, anything crochet. In particular, it is a tie between coffee cozies and infinity cowls. The idea of making something eco-friendly or something that can keep someone warm, is a great a feeling. Knowing that my work is serving a purpose is great! Especially if it's cute, it's an added
bonus.
How did you get started selling on Etsy? Do you sell your work anywhere else?
I started selling on Etsy about 3 years ago under a different shop name. I had OK sales, but I was a student then and I didn't have the time to invest into it. It was really cool when I had an order from
Australia, I was an international seller! I sell my things on Very Jane too. I've been featured in 2 daily deals so far, and it's been great. I've sold at local craft shows too, I like all of the different experiences. They each bring something different to the table.
Can you describe your creative process?
Innovative for sure. I find a way to do something and I work my experiments to make it my own. I do this in crafting, cooking and in my own personal artwork. I find a problem and I look further into a
solution.
What types of materials/mediums do you like working with best?
If I find a gorgeous color or a super soft skein, I've got yarn envy. Whenever I see balls of yarn, and I instantly think of what I could make with it. But on the other end of the spectrum, I love metals. I was a metals and jewelry major in college, yes it exists! I could soldier brass and silver all day long if I could. I hope one day I can work alongside a jeweler, but for now I'm working on applying for my master's in art education.
Do you have a best selling item?
So far, my coffee cozies are a hit! I saw some on etsy once, and I thought, " Hmm, how could I make that idea into my own style and design?" After trial and error, I found my perfect solution.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love spending time with my friends. I'm almost 23 now, so I like to eat and getting drinks with friends. Baking for every occasion I can think of is another favorite of mine. I enjoy going to concerts and
shows, I saw Mumford and Sons a few days ago and it was incredible. I like to play pick-up soccer games and like to run. I'm doing the Warrior Dash in May, so training for that has been an activity too.
What is something about yourself that not many people know?
I have my motorcycle license! A few years ago, I took a course and got my class M on my license. I don't have a bike quite yet, but it's a goal I'm working towards!
Anything else you'd like to share?
Sure!
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