Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Tina Walker and I am a paper crafter and mixed media artist.
I am a working mom, working outside the home. I have been crafty since I was a little girl (I have my grandma to thank for that) and created my first scrapbook over 15 years ago. My latest obsession with scrapbooking started 3 years ago and I haven't stopped since.
My children are grown, so much of my crafty inspiration comes from my two French bulldogs, Moose & Flikka. I live in snowy (and sometimes sunny) Salt Lake City, Utah, but am an Mid West girl by heart.
Scrapbooking and photography are my passions. I MUST do both in order to keep my sanity. There is nothing better than coming home after a demanding day 'on the job' and getting 'lost' in paper, glue, and paint.
I currently design for - My Mind's Eye, Jenni Bowlin Studios and Pretty Little Studio. I am also the Design Team Coordinator for Love My Tapes.
I feel honored to have been published in Somerset Memories, Scrapbook Trends, and Creating Keepsakes.
Where you always interested in crafting? What sparked your interest?
Yes, since I can remember. When I was young, I would spend my summer's with my Grandmother and we would spend many days at the Ceramic studio, painting and crafting. I have tried many crafts; ceramics, sewing, painting, and stitching, but have really found my love with paper crafting and mixed media art.
What is your favorite thing to create?
This is a tough question. I am a craft chameleon. I often move from one type of project to another. I can totally be into creating scrapbook layouts one day, and into home decor projects the next. I really enjoy mixing up my projects to keep it fresh and interesting. But.... if I had to say what is my absolute favorite thing to create, it would be mixed media canvases. I love the artistic freedom that is expressed in each canvas. I love the messy and totally randomness of paint, ink, paper, and paste. I have a wall in my studio where all my canvases hang. I love the color and joy it brings to the room.
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
Everywhere....Pinterest, art galleries, random everyday objects, billboards, magazines....
Do you have a favorite piece you have created?
I don't really have a favorite, but 'Cowboy' is special to me for 2 reasons: (1) I've always loved this photo of my dad as a young boy and (2) This is the first layout I had published. It will always be special to me.
How did you get into blogging?
I started a blog because most Scrapbook Design Teams require a blog as part of their commitment, so before I started submitting my application for Design Teams, I created 'a dog's life'. At first, I blogged about my dogs and random writings and some art. Today, my blog is my main creative outlet. I've enjoyed meeting other crafty people from around the world in 'blogland'. I've even had the chance to meet some of my crafty heroes and friends in real life. I am truly blessed.
What do you typically blog about?
Most of my blog posts share my creations, tips, and tutorials. I also like to purge my crafty stash, so I frequently have giveaways and challenges so that I can share my extra goodies with others. :)
Do you have any advice for beginner bloggers?
Just go for it. Everyone has something interesting to share. It can be sharing your thoughts and ideas, to sharing your creative talents, to sharing posts about family and friends. Start visiting other blogs that interest you and comment to posts when you feel a connection. Many people who 'get out there' and start making connections by commenting and participating can get people to follow them in return.
Anything else you'd like to share?
I'd like to share several of my recent favorite layouts...These are favorites for various reasons: the photos, the colors, the design, and the techniques.
I'd like to thank Kelly for allowing me share a bit about myself. You can visit me at my blog, ('a dog's life') http://adogslife-thirteen.blogspot.com/ to see more of my scrappy art and mixed media creations.
