Here are some questions that I sometimes get asked about Inspired Joy, so I thought I'd answer them here! You can also read more on my 'About Me' page. Do get in touch if you have another question and I'll add it on to the end.
What is your favourite media to work with?
I love using watercolours, they’re probably my favourite media to use, but I am rapidly developing a love of pencil crayons. I particularly love using them to add details over the top of the watercolours. I enjoy using my graded pencils for little pencil drawings too.
Where do you get your ideas from?
My ideas come from various places: reading the bible, spending time listening to God, listening to sermons, worship songs… the list goes on!
What is your vision?
My aim is not to become the next multi-millionaire, but simply to share my artwork of God’s messages.
What are your hobbies?
Drawing! I do love to spend lots of time doodling, drawing and playing about with pens and paint. However, I also have other interests! I enjoy jigsaws, playing musical instruments and spending time with friends and family.
Do you have a favourite piece of artwork?
Usually whatever I’m busy working on! My favourite changes constantly! But if I had to choose, my 'Clothe Yourselves' print is probably on the favourites list and my favourite product are the 'Envelopes of Joy'.
How long does it take to complete each piece?
The time it takes to produce a piece of artwork varies from piece to piece – and how many times I file it away in the bin and start again! I know when it’s not my best and will often start again until I’m happy!
How does Inspired Joy look after the environment?
Firstly I have a paper recycling box right next to my desk. Where possible, my prints and postcards are printed onto recycled card. I specifically chose biodegradable clear bags for my packaging when it is needed. There are other little things, like using cardboard boxes that my orders arrive in as storage instead of buying plastic boxes and the rubber stamps that were made with my logo are from eco-friendly companies.
Where do you do your artwork?
I work at home, in a variety of places. Sometimes I work in the kitchen if I need to make use of all the worktop space. Sometimes I curl up with my sketchbook in the lounge (occasionally with the log burner going and usually a blanket!) My favourite place to work though, is our ‘Spudy’ – the spare room / study! I have all my resources up there, a desk by the window, my drawing board and plenty of space to spread out all my products and designs – also has the bonus of being the warmest room in the house!
Where did the name ‘Inspired Joy’ come from?
I pondered on the name for quite a while, with nothing feeling it the ‘the’ name. Then one day, I was just scribbling down a to-do list for the day, which included some business planning, the name just came to me. I instantly knew that this was the name to use. As soon as I stopped trying, God gave me the answer. ‘Inspired’ means 'of extraordinary quality, as if arising from some external impulse' which is exactly where the designs come from - inspired by God.