Creative Interview: Crocus & Thistle

 

Today I’m kicking off a new series here on the blog where I interview creatives—painters, calligraphers, designers, crafters—you name it! For our first interview, I am excited to introduce you to Heidi from Crocus & Thistle. I came across Heidi and her stunning paintings at a craft boutique at my church, where I immediately purchased one of her pieces (seen in my kitchen above). Since then, Heidi and I have kept in touch over social media, and I’m so glad she agreed to be interviewed for this series! Her transparency is lovely, and I think by the end you’ll love her heart and her art just as much as I do! 🙂

 

Quick Questions

Preferred medium: Acrylic paint
Favorite spot in your home: On the corner of my couch
Ideal way to spend a Saturday: Painting, reading, walking
Biggest inspiration: Bouquets of actual flowers
Favorite color: Pantone 2173 C

//via Crocus & Thistle

When did you begin painting and getting into art? Do you have any formal training?

I received my first set of oil paints from my aunt when I was probably 10 years old and did a few paintings and then didn’t use them much after that. I have always loved making arts and crafts, but I’ve never devoted much time to learning one specific medium. I just started acrylic on a whim in July 2016! I have degrees in architecture and environmental design…for those I had to take a couple of drawing classes in college, but otherwise I’m self-taught. I find my architectural background informs my composition.

When and how did you decide that you wanted to start selling your artwork? How did you come up with the name Crocus & Thistle?

I quickly built up an inventory and needed somewhere to put it besides my own walls. I sold at two fairs this fall and then reopened my Etsy shop. The name, oddly enough, I chose 8 years ago when I sold a few photographic prints on Etsy. I hadn’t thought of it for ages, but when I started painting flowers, it kept popping into my mind. Part of the reason I began painting was for a creative outlet; I had to give up my photography business because of health issues, and my right brain was starving. I kept thinking of crocuses, one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring, coming right through the snow, shining brightly in the cold. And thistles, a plant known for its barbs, its prickliness, yet it produces a flower that is food for bees (making honey!) and has medical uses. Another good thing coming from seemingly bad. My art is like that: a hobby/business borne of a very hard time in my life.

//via Crocus & Thistle

What is the biggest thing you have learned about yourself since starting Crocus & Thistle?

That I really am a recovering perfectionist! I have had to let go of making the “perfect” art and enjoy the process. It’s been very freeing.

Does your art influence the way you decorate your home? If so, how?

I don’t usually follow home trends, preferring to use what I have and surrounding myself with things I love. I enjoy, even relish, looking at other folks’ home Instagram accounts and blogs, but my furniture doesn’t move very often (I like to think I have found its most useful placement), and I rarely buy new decor pieces. That said, I have hung several paintings, and they bring me a ridiculous amount of cheer! The colors alone are day-brightening. My general palette is very neutral with some pops of color and whimsy in each room, so they add the perfect touch.

//via Crocus & Thistle

Where can people find you?

Instagram: @crocusandthistle
Facebook: facebook.com/crocusandthistle
Etsy Shop: etsy.com/shop/crocusandthistle

Thank you, Heidi, for sharing a bit of your heart and passion! Make sure and give Heidi a follow, and you’ll definitely want to check out her shop… it’s filled with lots of lovely paintings! If you’re a creative and would like to be interviewed for this series, drop me a line here!