Jun 08 2009
The Talented, Down to Earth, Witty and Wonderful Artist Felicia Kramer is Always Ready to Share “Another Bright Idea”
Felicia Kramer is one of those artists that I feel exceptionally lucky to know. She is filled with endless bright ideas which is why her Etsy shop name, Another Bright Idea, is so appropriate. Her work, which includes digital collages, handmade paper, cards and more, is always filled with vibrant color, stirring images and often, unforgettable quotes.
A couple of months ago, Felicia asked me if she could use a few phrases from a poem I had written in her collages. I was so honored to be asked and yet nothing could have prepared me for her creations. The three pieces she made currently hang in my home. They are a constant reminder of the talent that exists in the world. Felicia’s imagination, eye for detail and tremendous talent are a constant inspiration to me.
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Felicia about the curveballs life can sometimes throw at you, becoming a full-time artisit for the first time, collaboration, her inspiring personal motto and being “the crazy lady on the pink bike” in Michigan. Please allow me to introduce, Felicia Kramer!
CN: How long have you been creating?
Felicia: Almost every artist says, “ever since I can remember” and it was the same for me. I wasn’t encouraged to pursue art as a career and family funds were short, so I entered the work world while still in high school. But at the ripe old age of 30, I decided to attend college, and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree (printmaking) from Michigan State University . I called it my great indulgence, because I felt by that time in my life I didn’t have to count on it to make a living so I could do it just for myself. And I did. After college my career as a producer in the marketing/communications industry allowed me the opportunity to work closely with graphic artists, writers and other creative people. And I continued to create on my own in my personal life.
CN: How long have you been working as an artist?
Felicia: It wasn’t until the last few years, when I was forced to retire early because of several back surgeries, that I started to take my art seriously, that is, beyond just my family and friends. I wanted an outlet that didn’t place too many demands on me physically, so Etsy provides the perfect opportunity to sell online.
That Darn Poison Apple by Another Bright Idea
CN: You create incredible digital collages, what made you start?
Felicia: During the months-long recuperations after my surgeries, I put my laptop computer on a bed table so I could keep myself occupied by studying Photoshop and Illustrator. I have been a photographer since college, and my desire to take those photos a step further made me start exploring the world of digital collage. I love it – I can get lost in it for hours upon hours – although I still consider myself a student, still learning.
CN: What inspires you?
Felicia: One of the benefits of living in Michigan is experiencing first-hand the beauty of the four seasons. I have to admit I’m not such a fan in the middle of a cold winter, but even then I love the quiet beauty of newly fallen snow. I’m very much inspired by the outdoors and nature, and flowers from my small garden are abundant in my life and on my website. Plus, I’m always carrying home bags of pine cones, twigs, thistles, and anything else I find for my nature collages. I’m sure my neighbors must wonder who is that crazy lady on a pink bike who rides around picking up all that stuff! I’m also an inveterate quote collector and beautiful words often conjure up visual images for me.
CN: You asked to use portions of my poem for your work. Do you often collaborate with other artists?
Felicia: Our collaboration was only the second time for me. (I did a custom piece for an Etsy customer.) Your beautiful poem touched me so much and almost every stanza evoked visual images in my mind. The emotions expressed in the words you wrote were so strong they leaped off the screen at me. I just HAD to try to visualize some of it. I would like to do more collaborations, but the words will have to speak to me as strongly as yours did so I can do them justice. I’m following the 20-word poem submissions you started – there’s some promise there, I think.
Life’s Ballet Digital Collage by Another Bright Idea
CN: What’s the best part of collaboration?
Felicia: The best part is that two people share their talents to achieve something that is not greater than its parts, because each part stands on its own creatively, but emotionally stronger because it melds words and images for a more complete creative experience.
CN: What’s the toughest part of collaboration?
Felicia: Needless to say, the toughest part is the pressure to be true to the emotions and the meaning the writer intended. I had nightmares that you would write me back and say, “That’s not what I meant at all!”
Dad I Love You Vintage Wooden Blocks by Another Bright Idea
CN: What’s one project you’ve always wanted to work on?
Felicia: I still hope to some day put together a book with my own words and pictures. I think about it a lot, and I believe that when I hit on an idea or theme that I think is worthy of a book, I will pursue it.
CN: If you had a personal motto, what would it be?
Felicia: My personal motto has always been “Never say never.” No one would have guessed that I would have the experiences, the adventures, the setbacks and the triumphs I have had throughout my life. Lately, my motto is, “There’s always something that can be done.” I see too many people (and myself sometimes) paralyzed with fear that something they are contemplating isn’t going to pan out. I just tell them (and myself) that if it doesn’t work there will always be other options. They may not be the best options, but it relieves the pressure just knowing that it won’t be the end of the world if something doesn’t work the first time.
CN: What advice would you give to aspiring artists?
Felicia: Young artists today have so many more options than were available when I was younger, mostly because of the internet and the wider variety of creative outlets. I would advise aspiring artists to stay with your art, even if it has to be on a part-time basis, practically speaking, for awhile. And if you really want to be an artist full-time, go for it. Masses of information on how to succeed are available if you are persistent and determined and passionate. I’m so glad I’m still around to enjoy my art FULL-time for the FIRST time.
For more information about this incredible artist, please visit http://anotherbrightidea.etsy.com/ and check out her stellar new blog, Felicia Kramer.
Natasha – you are so special! Thanks a thousand times for your very kind comments and for the interview. Both my art life and my personal life are so much better with you in them. Thank you so much!
Aww Felicia…thank YOU!! I feel EXACTLY the same way!!! Thank you for being who you are …Big hugs
Natasha, I’m so happy you featured Felicia.
I’m a fan and totally amazed with her work and now…I know more about her and I am more amazed
Our paths did cross for a reason!
A truly inspiring interview featuring two very talented and sensitive people. The collages included are beautiful. I wish for more creativity from both of you to be shared with the rest of the world! Bright moments in at times dreary moments! Thank You.
Jenjen – Felicia’s work is awesome and I’m so glad she has a blog now to share even more with people….her work needs to be further and further out there!! Jenjen…you and I are both major fans YAY!!!
Tish – thank you SO very much for your thoughtful comment! I agree that the collages are incredibly beautiful….please come play again…you are a bright light …thanks for shining it here
What beautiful creations! Your story is inspiring!