Jennterview: Laura Francis, Artist

“Jennterviews” is an ongoing interview series in which I (via my Wacky Wordsmith/Web Gopher/Human Glitter Bomb, Stacey) interview the fascinating artists and creative industry figures that I work with. In this installment, we feature Laura L. Francis, Artist/Crafter (with a short but rewarding stint in modeling). You can check her out on Facebook and shop her wares on Etsy.

How did you get into your field?

It all started as kind of a therapy for me. It helped relieve the stress, anxiety, and panic attacks due to PTSD. Then I was asked if I would be willing to do a first Friday show last February. I made some special sock creatures and took them to the show. Everyone that came out that cold, nasty night really liked them. I was asked to come back in March. So between the February and March show I had professional business cards made up as well as a banner, set up a Facebook page featuring my items, and rushed into opening an online store on Etsy. I’ve been making stuff ever since. I just celebrated my first year in business on March 1st.

What inspires you creatively?

Lots of things do. Whether I'm looking for treasures in thrift stores or doing random research online. When I see socks sometimes something pops into my head that sock would be great for, other socks I look at the pattern on them or the color and think "Oh I might be able to use that in the future." On the zombie babies I look at their features and what kind of noises they make - some are very cool because their voice box is so rundown it just makes random noise. Then there are those that can crawl.

What is your favorite thing about your work?

The fun part of what I do is seeing the end result. I have no idea when I start something what the end result will be. Nothing I do is from a pattern. I just do. I love how my brain comes up with an idea of something and I run with it. I love what I do.

What is your least favorite thing about your work?

Not knowing what to do next. As an artist sometimes we do get creative blocks and we can't think of what to do next. I look at all my supplies and nothing comes to me.

What do you wish people understood about your work?

That as an artist (because that's what I am), all my items take time to make. They are not knockoffs that you can find cheaper someplace else. By doing that you're not supporting the artist community at all. We love what we do or we wouldn't be doing it. So be smart - buy from your local artist and get the original, because we do quality work not knockoffs.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

That's easy. My short but successful run as a model. Last May I was crowned Kansas Perfect Model, even though I've never done anything like it. Would I do it again? Yes, I would. Also having professional photos taken for the first time, perfect for any modeling portfolio if I choose to continue doing it in the future.

What is the biggest mistake you’ve made in your career?

There are no mistakes only learning experiences.

What advice do you have for someone entering your field?

If you love what you're doing don't worry about it. There's always someone that is willing to help you along the way, all you have to do is ask. Make sure you're asking someone that's great in their field that has real talent, though - there are a lot of not so good people that can steer you wrong. If it doesn't feel right, ask someone else. Because we would like to see you succeed as well.

What do you look for in a makeup artist?

Talent. The way they use their color pallets to make you look your best. All you have to do is look at their work to see the artistry in what they do. Plus the quality of the products they use. You can always find great references for an awesome makeup artist. Also, if the makeup artist scrimps on product you won't look your best and without looking your best you're not going to succeed.

What one personal care item would you be lost without?

The advice about product that I get from Jennifer. [See, readers? People do listen to me.] But seriously my moisturizer, good sunblock, and water.

In your opinion, what is the worst trend in recent memory?

No style or imagination. Have you seen Kanye West's new line? It’s a joke.

White chocolate: Sweet treat or a lie an abomination?

I'll eat it if its around but I don't go out of my way to buy it. I prefer dark chocolate, the darker the better.

Anything else you’d like readers to know?

Do your homework. The more you know about what you want to do the more you will succeed. You don't have to have a degree and if you do, use your imagination and style not what's written in a text book. Always ask questions, there's no such thing as a stupid question.

#jennterviews