Welcome back to our What Creativity Looks Like series. Every week this summer, I’ll be introducing you to some amazingly creative women. My hope is as you read these interviews and virtually meet these ladies, you’ll be inspired to create more in your own life.
Let’s get started!
What’s your name (and business name, if you have one)?
Terri Ann (Mini Barn Quilts)
Tell us about YOU. How is your creativity expressed?
I’ve always loved making things. I’m a web developer by trade, so creating websites and digital things is a passion, but I also love making things with my hands: quilting, crafting, and creating something from what was once a pile of supplies.
How did you get started in your creative practice? (“Practice” is just a fancy word for all the fun creative things you do. :))
I started seriously quilting, sewing, and crafting when I realized that my full-time job of making websites wasn’t as fulfilling as making something that was tangible.
What keeps you going?
Checking in that I’m staying true to myself. Sometimes it’s a good time to grow my skills and try a new thing; sometimes it’s best to not make a lot of things and get outside, live life a bit more fully, and allow making to bring me joy.
What is your greatest joy?
Making things that are beautiful! Be it taking a photo of a beautiful scenic view, crafting up something that will hang on my wall, sewing up a quilt to lay under, or making a new friend—the act of making something beautiful or wonderful brings me the greatest joy.
What’s a “typical” day (or week) like for you? In other words, how do you incorporate creative projects into your life?
My typical day is, up with just enough time to pack web orders before I scamper off to work. When I come home and eat dinner, then I choose to either have me-time, business-time, or I choose to spend my time creating. Sometimes I’m lucky enough that I can be doing two of those at once.
What would you say to someone who wants to be creative but can’t find the time?
You don’t always find time; sometimes you have to make it. I work full time, run a small business, and still find time to be creative. I try not to get wrapped up that I can only be in my craft; sometimes making dinner is my act of creativity and other days it’s hours in the craft room.
What do YOU think creativity looks like?
Creativity is taking an idea and expressing it in some way. Maybe it’s how you fold your clothes, how you sew, how you garden, or how you draw. Creativity is one of those fluid things that is what you make of it (pun mostly intended!)
I love how Terri Ann has learned that being true to herself in the creative process is just as important as making things. And for those of us who have super busy days, it’s comforting to remember that even “small” acts like getting dinner ready is a chance to exercise those creative muscles.
For those of you who host crafternoons with friends, are planning a retreat, or are looking for a simple craft for a group, Terri Ann’s mini barn quilts would be so much fun to make. I think they’d even be fun to try with the older kiddos this summer!
Have a lovely {and creative} day!
