We are so proud of our Make Art That Sells Alumni, and we are pleased to feature a series of spotlight interviews showcasing their successes and artwork. We’ve asked them to share how the MATS courses have helped them learn and grow. You can see more Alumni Success stories here
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Today, we have an interview with Krishnaa Shyam from Krishnaa Shyam Designs. Krishnaa has taken MATS: Creating Collections for Home Décor, bootcamp 2015, 2016, 2017 and attended the MATS: Global Art Gathering.
Krishnaa also launched an exciting Kickstarter campaign here.
Tell us a little about how you got started in art and design
I’ve always been interested in pattern, drawing and design. I grew up in an extremely artistic household. My grandmother was an artist and I sat with her when she sketched and painted. Our home had the old mosaics from the 50’s with designs which was one of my first influences for pattern. I then studied History of art in college, then did a BFA in Illustration in the Savannah College of Art and Design. I found my love for patterns then and when I studied Brand Design in the Bath Spa University my final project was Indian Folk Art inspired patterns embroidered on felt. On this journey I came across the lovely Print and Pattern Blog and saw MATS there. Since then there has been no looking back!
Lilla always says “People buy your joy.” What brings you joy?’
Adding pattern and colour to life. Mostly hand drawing them, seeing it come to life on piece of paper. I love seeing the pleasure it brings to a person when you gift them with the joy of pattern and colour. I love wearing pattern and seeing it all around me. My dream is to add to people’s life through pattern.
Which is your favorite market(s) to design for and why?
I love designing for accessories and home furnishings. When you add a piece of accessory, a scarf or a tote can add so much to your mood! I absolutely adore stationery and I’m constantly hoarding! I can never resist a pretty notebook that inspires me to draw.
What are you working on currently?
My current project is a set of limited edition scarves inspired by a lovely small town called Chettinad in India. I’m launching it through a kickstarter campaign.
What are some of the key things you have learnt from the MATS experience?
To always believe in yourself and go after what you want. To know that constantly working and pushing yourself out of you comfort zone can lead to delightful and interesting results.
How have the classes helped your artwork evolve /grow?
I’ve never wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone. MATS helped slowly push me. Giving me the support and understanding that every artist works at a different pace. This has made me create work that defined my style and me as an artist. It also helped me as an individual to never give up and that every artist has something original and special to offer.
Any aha moments during MATS you would like to share?
I did the Home Décor Course when it was launched and was one of the first to sign up. The aha moment came when I learned how to create a presentation sheet with professionally mocked up samples. That really helped. That it could be done so easily and look so professional.
What are your key successes since taking a MATS class?
Launching my own range of scarves and totes. Having the confidence to launch a kickstarter to fund my manufacturing.
How would you describe taking a MATS class to a fellow artist looking to develop their art.
A course that aids you in finding your style. That pushes you gently to create work in new ways with a strong story or idea. It will help bring into focus what you want to do with your art.
What is your dream gig for your artwork?
Manufacturing and selling my own designs on products. This kickstarter is a step in that direction.
I’ve also never let go of my dream to work for Anthropologie. To create a complete range for them as I absolutely adore the brand.
See more work here: Website | Facebook | Instagram
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Would you like to experience the Make Art That Sells classes yourself? Browse our live and self-paced classes here
Graduates of our courses have gone on to win work from clients such as Hallmark, Robert Kaufman Fabrics, Oopsy Daisy, Uppercase Magazine, West Elm, Midwest CBK, and more. It is industry learning that works in the real world. Find out more HERE and start today!
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