She's not only a whiz at junking and finding cool trinkets, she also happens to be a gardening fool. Where many of us fall flat in developing green spaces, Pam not only cultivates, she thrives. Fantastic spreads of color and texture follow her time in the garden. Her gardening blog, Garden Gal, is the account of her adventures in the flora & fauna variety.
Here, Pam reveals some of her thoughts about creativity in gardening and crafting. But don't let those two topics fool you. Pam is a multidimensional lady, and an all around hoot. (When Pam and I laugh together, it's literally cackling.)
1. Have you lived and/or traveled to many places? What is your favorite place to be?
Lived in Paris 2 years, London 2+ years, New York 8 years. Born and raised in California. My favorite place depends on the day...today, it's New York. Really missing it. Do not now, nor ever have, missed California...well, except for my family.
2. How long have you been in your current location? What do you love most about being there?
Moved to Portland when Emma was 1...been here 16 years. Love the people and the progressive sensibility the most.
3. What is your design/craft aesthetic & philosophy?
Vintage, kitschy, lots of color...Happy Crap.
4. What tools & products in your studio could you not live without? Do you have a favorite?
Vintage wrapping paper and greeting cards. Color saturation rules my world. I don't do beige.
5. What trends/experiences do you see in your life as it relates to your craft?
I'm always amazed at how little my taste has changed over the years. The stuff I loved at 14, I still love. Think cotton floral tablecloths, and the like.
6. Complete this sentence: "When I'm in my studio/workspace/creative space, I feel (or think) _______________________."
I try not to think. Just DO. This is a challenge for me. Often I over think...or won't use something because "I might need it someday." (This is the thing I admire most about you. You seem so at ease with the process and just DO it, USE it and MAKE it. I long for that.)
7. When you're stuck or facing a tough decision, what creative inspiration do you look to? How do you combat "creative block?"
I find inspiration from other artists/crafters, magazines, kids' art, Matisse, Calder, pre-Pop Andy Warhol, Outsider Art.
8. If there was a soundtrack to the movie "A Day in the Life of YOU" what would it include?
Amy Winehouse, Adele, Bobby Short, The Clash, Al Green, Carolyn Sampson's version of Mozart's Exultate Jubilate and Nancy Sinatra's These Boots are Made for Walkin'.
9. If you could visit the studio of any craftsperson/artist/designer (present day or historical) who would it be and why?
Hands down: Alexander Calder. Whimsy on steroids.
10. If you could have been born in any other time period, what period would you choose, and why (or how do you think it most suits your sensibilities and personality)?
I have often thought it would have been great to live in New York in the 40's or 50's. Post WWII, there was a sense of renewal and optimism that must have been exhilarating.
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| all photos courtesy of Pam |
