Meet Esther. I had the pleasure of meeting Miss Esther this June when I created the PDX Progressive Shop Hop and she is an absolute delight. Hardworking, sweet, and funny, Esther has inimitable style and an eye for design. I'm constantly floored at the stationery she creates, and the vision she shares on her blog. Here, she gives us the low-down on what goes on in her world.
1. Have you lived and/or traveled to many places? What is your favorite place to be?
I grew up in Salem, OR. When I was 23 I moved to Oakland to attend California College of the Arts. Two and a half years later I decided to move back to Oregon. I missed my family and wide-open spaces. My mom found me a job on the coast and I moved into her little house in Wheeler.
2. How long have you been in your current location? What do you love most about being there?
The move to Wheeler was supposed to be temporary, but I fell in love with the quiet coastal community. I’ve lived here for two years. Every day I’m blown away by the gorgeous landscape – mountains, river, ocean, elk, killdeer, great blue herons…
3. What is your design/craft aesthetic & philosophy?
My stationery line is a mix of past and present. The materials evoke a sense of nostalgia while the designs are clean and modern.
4. What tools & products in your studio could you not live without? Do you have a favorite?
My tools and materials include: discarded books, found paper, scissors, templates, pencils, ruler, and a paper cutter. One of my favorite tools is my pair of scissors with non-stick blades.
5. What experiences do you see in your life as it relates to your craft?
When I moved back to Oregon I left behind some really good friends. I sent them handmade cards and envelopes to keep in touch. They encouraged me to market my designs.
6. Complete this sentence: "When I'm in my studio/workspace/creative space, I feel (or think) _______________________."
I feel inspired and motivated. I’m usually wondering how long my cat, Ramsey, will let me work until he climbs onto my table to get some attention.
7. When you're stuck or facing a tough decision, what creative inspiration do you look to? How do you combat "creative block?"
When I need a creative boost I visit thrift stores in search of materials, go to concerts in Portland, visit my favorite blogs, and/or go for a walk in the woods.
8. If there were a soundtrack to the movie "A Day in the Life of YOU" what would it include?
The Byrds, Drew Grow & the Pastors’ Wives, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Kelli Schaefer, and Donovan
9. If you could visit the studio of any craftsperson/artist/designer (present day or historical) who would it be and why?
I’d like to hang out with artist and author, Sabrina Ward Harrison. I’ve been a fan of her for years. Her work is so raw and honest. When in search of inspiration I crack open one of her books.
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 would’ve loved to be around during the late sixties. I’m really drawn to the music, fashion, interior design, and art made during that time period. My favorite books to convert to stationery are printed in the late sixties.
Don't hesitate to visit Esther's blog & Etsy shop. All things Paragraph Cove can be found here:
psst. Paragraph Cove is on facebook & twitter, too...
@ParagraphCove
