Joy Charde exemplifies the balancing act that often characterizes parents who are artists.
During the daytime, this former elementary school teacher is a mother who works at her local public library. At night, however, when everyone else is sleeping, Joy doodles and generates vector art for her custom illustrated goods shop on Etsy, The Art of Joy. Her whimsical designs are based on her love of all things Hawaiian. On her Web site, Creative Mama, she offers free “Kawaii” printables that anyone can download, such as thank you cards, mini calendars, gift tags, an organization kit for children, and more. Kawaii is Japanese for “cute”—and cute definitely describes her whimsical designs. This past October, Etsy liked her designs so well that she was featured in the site’s Twitter Artist Series for one of her downloadable Twitter backgrounds.
Joy’s work may also be found in her Etsy shop, The Art of Joy. Whether you’re looking for customizable pirate party invitations, baby shower announcements, or personalized note cards, you’ll find something that appeals to you.
How does she get it done? Perhaps the answer can be found in the podcasts to which Joy listens, which include Parents Journal, Pediacast, Mighty Mom, Momversation and New Moms, New Babies. In any event, you will lots of helpful information on her Web site, Creative Mama, which Joy describes as “a place to find resources, tips and tricks to help balance your family and your creative side.”Â
Be sure to download Joy’s free Valentine’s Day gift, Kawaii Valentines Kit. You can follow Joy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/JoyCharde.
© 2011 Judy Nolan. All rights reserved.
very nice feature – enjoyed the read! {:-D
Wonderful feature!
Thanks so much for such a wonderful feature!
Hugs!