inspiration weeks Day 11: Kima of Kup Kup Land

My relationship with Kima started in the spring of 2007 when I fell in love with her whimsical felt collages on flickr. At that time I was redoing Deborah's bedroom as a surprise and birthday gift for her while she was away spending 10 weeks in Nice, France on exchange. The room was redecorated in red and yellow and since Deborah loves art I wanted to purchase some new items for her walls. I asked Kima to do a custom piece for her and this is what she made. You can see how awesome it looked on Deborah's art wall. I would love one day to see a animated short of adventures in kup kup land. I think it could be nominated for an oscar. * What inspires you in your creativity? I get influenced by the things around me, my inspiration comes from the materials themselves, the fabrics and felt, the colors, thedrawings, the ornaments etc. The materials make me visualize the idea I have for a creation. I am fond of most japanese styles in craft making as i am of comics, illustration books for children, nature and life itself. My style is kind of pop and baroque at the same time -at times i try to make things more minimal but the result never satisfied me so far- so i guess that's what defines me better. * If you tried to trace back the series of events that lead to you making things and opening an etsy shop where would it begin? I always loved to draw, paint, I have studied graphic design and illustration and 2 years ago I startet to play with fabrics, buttons, sewing and I discovered felt! A fantastic material with you can create a lot of thinks from illustration to many interesting projects.I started with a flickr account -i love flickr- a world full of images- Then i dod the blog, a space that i like but do not use so often, i am not good in writing. Then, i opened my shop at Etsy, the three work together very well I thing the Internet is a big marketing tool. * How did you learn your crafting skills? At school I always loved to draw and paint, and I have always had special interest in all handmade, but i am self taught, i did not learn the things, i do in a particular place, i have been experimenting always with new ideas.I love cut and paste!! Sewing by hand and machine, embroidery, draw..I try to combine all these elements. I like to experiment with all sorts of materials but without doubt felt is my favourite one: i like to combine it with fabric and other materials paper, wool... * Can you describe an environment time, place and company ( people or pets) where you feel most creative? We moved from Spain to Greece 8 months ago..Greece is sun all the way and the light is great too and this influences a lot in my life and my work. I need sun, I love sun.. *-What do you have planned 2009? So many things....I would like to create my own web site, and I'm planning to rent a small studio near to my house. * What advice or encouragement would you offer another creative person contemplating taking a big step to open a shop or blog in 2009? I remember when I first got started; I thought I would never sell my first item! I say just keep making the stuff you love and someone that loves your work will find it and give it a new loving home. Being original is the most important thing but we actually receive loads for information and influences and being original is difficult. I think we can be inspired by other people's work but the personal touch defines our work, and of course don't give up and be open to trying new things. Be patient and don’t ever get discouraged.

Comments

[Vivienne Strauss]

these creations are all so wonderful!!! I can't wait to explore them further. Beautiful, Kima! Thank you Margie for sharing her with all of us!

[Jeannie]

Kima's art is wonderful. Thank you for sharing her work. You are too modest about your writing, it is so motivating for me - thanks! My most creative place is the Oregon Coast. (I live in the desert in Ea. Washington.) The coast opens my mind and my heart - I feel free of the inner critic, time constrains, the "you shoulds". This year I want to see if I can find that same freedom here at home. As to the advice on opening a shop? To quote Nike - Just do it! Your art is unique and I believe there are many who would love it. Good luck!

[Rachel]

I love the pieces you featured, especially the little deer! What a wonderful interview, great questions!

[Patricia]

Thank you for sharing Kima's magical work. Kup Kup Land seems like a place I would like to visit, especially with such an amazing mixture of colors and textures. I admire someone who can combine pop and baroque so beautifully!!